Know Where to Turn in Santa Cruz County

SCCAS provides two locations for owners to find and recover their lost pets and adopt new animal companions. Our shelters are tangible evidence of Santa Cruz County’s commitment to animal welfare.  They are supported by numerous volunteers and foster care families who provide thousands of hours of assistance to shelter staff at both shelter locations. We’re YOUR community shelter. We’d love to have you visit us or join us as a volunteer!

Unfortunately, the internet offers confusing and inaccurate advice, and many good Samaritans turn to the Santa Cruz SPCA when pets are lost, simply on the strength of name recognition. The SPCA has a respected tradition of promoting adoption and humane education, but the Santa Cruz SPCA does NOT handle lost-and-found cases. The Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter is the only open-admission, full-service facility set up to receive and care for lost pets at both its Santa Cruz and Watsonville shelters.
Note: cumulative statistics above show SCCAS data since 2002.