New Santee Animal Shelter to Open on October 15

With this opening, the Bonita shelter will permanently close, and all sheltering operations will shift to the Santee location. However, field services, licensing, and community support will remain available for residents in the unincorporated areas near Bonita. The Carlsbad shelter in North County will continue to operate as well.

As the transition nears, County Animal Services encourages residents to adopt or foster pets currently at the Bonita shelter. Lowering the number of animals before the move will minimize stress on the pets and simplify the process for staff. Early adoptions will also help animals avoid the difficulties associated with transport and acclimatization to a new environment.

The Santee shelter is designed to enhance animal care and improve visitor experiences. Key features include:

- Larger dog kennels and cattery spaces with better ventilation and natural light.

- Dedicated medical and surgical suites for comprehensive on-site treatment.

- Separate isolation and quarantine areas to ensure the health of animals and staff.

- Outdoor play yards and enrichment zones for exercise and social interaction.

- A welcoming adoption lounge for a more comfortable adoption process.

- Updated staff workspaces and break rooms with improved furniture and technology.

- Expanded parking for visitors and employees.

These enhancements reflect a modern approach to animal sheltering and mark a considerable upgrade from the previous Bonita facility. The new shelter is situated at 452 Riverview Parkway, Santee, CA 92071.

For Santee residents, it's important to note that the city will maintain its contract with the San Diego Humane Society for animal control services. Residents should continue to reach out to the Humane Society regarding stray animals, barking complaints, or lost pets. The Santee Animal Shelter will serve residents in the County's unincorporated areas.

The establishment of the new Santee Animal Shelter signifies a substantial investment in animal welfare and ongoing service improvements. Updates about the opening will be provided as the date approaches, including information to assist residents in the transition from the Bonita shelter.

County Animal Services is dedicated to promoting humane and responsible pet care across unincorporated areas of San Diego County. The department offers 24-hour animal rescue services, support for residents no longer able to care for their pets, and investigates cases of animal neglect and cruelty while educating the public on animal welfare, restraint, and licensing.