Santa Barbara County Animal Services (SBCAS) is calling on the community to help find temporary or forever homes for about 50 dogs, Aug. 27-Sept. 30 while two shelters undergo major improvements.

The Lompoc Animal Shelter is getting a facelift, with fresh paint for a brighter, more welcoming space for pets and visitors.

During the renovation, the shelter will temporarily limit the capacity to just 20 dogs to ensure safely and reduce stress to the animals.

Also, thanks to a grant from the ASPCA, in partnership with the Santa Barbara County Animal Care Foundation (SBCACF), the Santa Barbara Animal Shelter’s play yards will be transformed into more functional, enriching spaces for dogs with a more inviting place for visitors.

“The project will expand playgroup opportunities, reduce stress, and help dogs show off their best personalities to potential adopters,” SBCACF said.

To accommodate the construction, the shelter will temporarily limit the capacity to just 30 dogs.

During the transition, SBCAS is seeking foster families and adopters who can open their homes to dogs during this, for a month, or a lifetime.

Foster care provides a loving, low-stress environment for dogs, while freeing up shelter
space for construction and incoming animals in need, SBCAS said.

“This is a unique moment where the community can directly help us improve the quality
of life for shelter dogs, both now and for years to come,” said Sarah Aguilar, Animal
Services director.

“By fostering or adopting this month, you’re not just helping one dog — you’re helping us create better spaces for every dog who comes through our doors.”

How to help:

  • Foster: Provide a safe, temporary home for any of our shelter dogs until October SBCAS provides supplies, medical care, support.
  • Adopt: Make the commitment permanent and give a dog a lifetime of love.
  • Spread the Word: Share our posts and anyone who might be able to help.
    Interested in fostering or adopting?
  • Stop by any of our shelter locations to meet available dogs and get matched up.
  • Santa Maria Animal Center: 548 W. Foster Road.
  • Lompoc Animal Center: 1501 W. Central Ave.
  • Santa Barbara Animal Center: 5473 Overpass Road.