County Animal Services to Open New Santee Animal Shelter
County Animal Services will open its new Santee Animal Shelter on Oct. 15.
The facility features upgraded medical areas, modern kennels with improved design, and spaces built to reduce stress, increase enrichment and socialization, and support better care for animals and the community.
The opening will mark the permanent closure of the County’s Bonita shelter. All Bonita sheltering operations will move to the new Santee location. Field services, licensing and community support continue for residents in the unincorporated areas near Bonita.
The County will continue operating its Carlsbad shelter in North County.
County Encourages Pet Adoptions and Fostering Before Bonita Closure
Ahead of the transition, County Animal Services is asking residents to adopt or foster pets currently housed at the Bonita shelter. Reducing the number of animals before moving day will lighten stress on pets and streamline the process for staff. Early adoptions also help animals avoid the challenges of transport and adjusting to the new space.
Visit the County Animal Services website to learn more about ways you can help.
Features of the New Santee Animal Shelter
The Santee shelter was designed to improve animal care, enhance visitor experience and support efficient daily operations. Key improvements include:
Larger, divided dog kennels and cattery spaces with improved ventilation and natural light.
Dedicated medical and surgical suites for expanded on-site treatment.
Separate isolation and quarantine areas to protect animal and staff health.
Outdoor play yards and enrichment areas for exercise and socialization.
A welcoming adoption lounge and lobby for a more comfortable process.
Updated staff workspaces and break rooms with new furniture and technology.
Expanded parking for visitors and employees.
These improvements reflect a modern sheltering approach focused on animal well-being and represent a significant upgrade to the Bonita shelter.
The new shelter is located at 452 Riverview Parkway, Santee, CA 92071.
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What Santee Residents Need to Know
Although the new shelter is located in Santee, the city will continue its contract with the San Diego Humane Society for animal control services. Santee residents should continue contacting the San Diego Humane Society for stray animals, barking complaints or lost pets.
The new Santee Animal Shelter will serve residents who live in the County’s unincorporated areas.
A Major Step Forward for County Animal Services
The new Santee Animal Shelter represents a significant investment in animal welfare and long-term service improvements. The County will share updates as opening day approaches, including details to help residents navigate the transition from the Bonita shelter.
County Animal Services promotes the humane and responsible care of pets in the unincorporated areas of San Diego County. The department provides 24-hour animal rescues, supports residents who can no longer care for their pets, investigates and stops animal neglect and cruelty, enforces state and local laws, and educates the public about animal welfare, restraint and licensing.
Written by Sir Milo Loftin | October 1, 2026 | County of San Diego Communications Office
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