Santa Barbara County Animal Services (SBCAS) joins PetSmart Charities in celebrating National Adoption Week, Oct. 19-25 with waived adoption fees.

Adoption events will be located at PetSmart stores in Goleta and Santa Maria.

  • Santa Maria PetSmart, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 24, 2306 S. Bradley Road
  • Goleta PetSmart, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 25, 7090 Hollister Ave.

Also on Oct. 24, in partnership with the Street Dog Coalition and ASAP Cats, SBCAS will host We Got Your Six, a day for free pet care honoring veterans and their pets, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at the Santa Maria Elks Lodge, 1309 N. Bradley Road.

We Got Your Six is designed to supporting local veterans and their companion animals in the lead up to Veteran’s Day.

“In military terms, I’ve got your six means ‘I’ve got your back.’ For many veterans, a dog or cat fills that role every day — offering comfort, routine, and unconditional loyalty during and after service. This event is SBCAS’ way of returning the favor,” organizers said.

Services available to veterans and their pets include:

  • Basic medical exams
  • Vaccinations
  • Flea prevention
  • Pet supply and food distribution
  • Grooming services (by prior appointment only)

A valid military or veteran ID is required at check-in to receive event services.

“Pets can be a source of comfort, connection, and purpose for veterans, and caring for those pets is one way we can care for the people who served,” said Esme Medina outreach coordinator for SBCAS.

“‘We Got Your Six’ brings our community partners together to make veterinary care and everyday pet essentials easier to access. We want veterans to feel welcomed, appreciated, and supported in keeping their companions healthy and by their side,” Medina said.

National Adoption Week is held at PetSmart stores nationwide in partnership with rescues and local shelters.

All adopted pets are spayed/neutered, vaccinated and microchipped. Visitors can meet adoptable pets in person and talk with shelter staff about finding the right match for their household.

“Every animal in our shelters has their own personality and something special to offer,” said Juana Alejandre, operations manager. “National Adoption Week gives people a
chance to meet them, connect with our team, and find a companion who fits their life.”

Available pets can also be viewed anytime at Adoptable Animal Search Santa Barbara County website.

More about the national event is at petsmartcharities.org.