Santa Barbara Humane staff and volunteers had their busiest ever at the community’s recent Day in the Park, helping 209 pets receive a total of 601 services at Waller Park in Santa Maria.
This year’s event recorded the highest number of animals supported by the organization in its four years of participation at the annual event. Santa Barbara Humane reported a 70 percent increase in participants and a 55 percent increase in services provided.
At its booth, Santa Barbara Humane offered no-cost services, including topical flea treatment, microchips, and canine vaccinations. Staff provided training tips, behavior advice, and information about the programs available through the Santa Barbara and Santa Maria campuses.
“Day in the Park is such a great opportunity to meet people where they are and make veterinary care accessible,” said Dr. Katie Marrie, Santa Barbara Humane chief veterinary officer. “To be able to help more than 200 families in one day shows the level of need in our community and the dedication of our team.”
As a nonprofit, Santa Barbara Humane has provided hundreds of thousands of affordable veterinary services in the past five years through its Santa Barbara and Santa Maria campuses, as well as its mobile veterinary clinic.
The organization’s veterinary team offers preventive care such as vaccines, flea and tick control, and microchips, along with spay and neuter surgeries that reduce pet overpopulation and improve long-term health.
Additional services include wellness exams, dental cleanings, diagnostics, and treatment for minor illnesses and injuries.
Services are available to all pet owners, regardless of income, ensuring every family in Santa Barbara County has access to high-quality care, Santa Barbara Humane said.