Explore Dogs and Puppies for Adoption in San Diego
Helen Woodward Animal Center, established in 1972, is an organization where “people help animals and animals help people”. Although we are located in San Diego, we rescue pets from close to 30 organizations all over the United States, particularly from California, Texas, Oklahoma and Louisiana. We are a no-kill facility who saves the lives of over 3,000 orphan pets each year. Whether it’s your first dog or you are looking for an additional friend for a pup at home, Helen Woodward seeks to help these pets find a perfect forever home.
Dog Adoption in San Diego: Commonly Asked Questions
Adopting a new dog is an exciting experience that comes with great responsibility. Have a question about Helen Woodward Animal Center or our current roster of furry friends? Explore some of our most frequently asked questions down below or contact us today to speak to an adoption specialist to learn more!
How much does it cost to adopt a dog with Helen Woodward?
The cost of adopting a puppy is usually higher than the one to adopt an adult dog. At Helen Woodward Animal Center the price of adoptions can range from $42 up to $499 plus a $36 microchip fee. Our Adoptions department can always help you find out the exact cost of adoption for a specific dog you are interested in.
Is it so hard to get approved to adopt a dog in San Diego?
Dogs are passionate creatures who deserve love and affection. Here at Helen Woodward Animal Center, we work hard to make sure every dog finds their perfect forever family. Approval for dog adoption is based on having the right amount of time and resources to provide a healthy and happy lifestyle for Helen Woodward’s rescue pets. When you see a dog you like, you can bring a completed Adoption Application Form to our facility for our team to review and once approved, you can meet the dogs you are interested in. We want these animals to find a forever home fast, so make sure to apply as soon as you’re interested.
How many dogs can you have in San Diego County?
The number of pets you can own depends on where you live as every city has its own animal codes. In the city of San Diego and in unincorporated areas, if you live in a residential zone, you are limited to six dogs. Any more than that is considered a kennel.
What is the difference between buying and adopting a dog?
Pet stores often sell pets for profit. Many pets in pet stores are bred in large-scale breeding mills, where they are crammed into tiny cages and neglected. Shelters take in unwanted, stray, or
abandoned animals and provide them with veterinary care, food, water, shelter, and help them find their forever home. Animal shelters also screen potential adopters, making sure that the
animals are going to a safe home and will be cared for properly. By adopting a pet from an animal shelter or rescue group, you’ll help save the lives of two animals- the pet you adopt and a homeless animal that can be rescued because of the space you make available. Over 90% of the Center’s canines come from areas of the USA where breeding results in over-population.
Where can I find puppies for adoption in San Diego?
As we said before, you can help save a life by choosing to adopt from a shelter or rescue group rather than shopping around. Helen Woodward Animal Center’s mission is to “inspire and teach, locally and globally, the importance of the animal-human bond”. Adopted pets are just as loving, intelligent, and loyal as purchased pets. We often have puppies available.
Does Helen Woodward offer both small and large dogs for adoption?
Yes! Helen Woodward Animal Center opens its doors to dogs of all shapes and sizes year-round. Check out our list of currently adoptable dogs.
What to know before adopting a puppy?
Just like with any animal, it’s important to do your research before adopting a puppy. Puppies demand around-the-clock care and attention. Raising a puppy requires a high level of commitment. Young puppies need to be fed three or four times a day and taken outside immediately after eating or drinking so they can eliminate appropriately and become house-trained. A puppy might wake you up several times during the night just like a human baby. It might be because the puppy needs to go outside, or it might just be because the puppy is bored. All puppies need to be trained and socialized with other pets and people. Obedience training is a must to raise a well-adjusted dog.
You are going to need a lot of supplies to take care of your new puppy. Here is a quick checklist of some essentials you’ll need:
- Basic leash
- Adjustable collar with ID tag
- Metal or ceramic bowls for food and water Puppy food
- Dog bed with room to grow
- A few simple dog toys
- A brush, comb, or grooming mitt appropriate for your puppy’s coat
The Center’s dogs are all microchipped prior to adoption, providing protection in case the pet is lost.
You can find all of these items and more at our Paws In The Ranch boutique, located right within our adoption center!
Learn more about dog adoption in San Diego by visiting Helen Woodward Animal Center!
If you are considering adopting a dog or puppy we encourage you to visit us to explore dogs and puppies for adoption at the Helen Woodward Animal Center. Those who adopt through Helen Woodward become a part of our furry family and can enjoy exclusive adopter offers that help make your new pet feel right at home. Sign up for Helen Woodward’s newsletter to stay up to date on current dogs and cats for adoption and exciting announcements!
