Animal Services Update

Caring for the public and animals in our region is the most important reason the Santa Barbara County Animal Services agency exists. We take this responsibility very seriously. To that end, we contracted with the American Humane Association, a national organization with expertise in guiding agencies to improved service, to provide a comprehensive assessment. We are in the process of reviewing and implementing recommendations, which are myriad.

The county is partnering with numerous members of the community to get this important work done, but it will take time. We have some of the most committed and talented employees and volunteers caring for our animals, and we will not shy away from addressing the challenging issues and balancing the many different needs of our system. We look forward to working with all in the months and years ahead as we elevate our animal services program to a new level of excellence.

Dr. Takashi Wada is director of Santa Barbara County’s Public Health Department