San Diego Humane Society Faces Critical Overcrowding as Families Struggle With Rising Costs

Petzuva, The Pet Lover’s Network, is drawing attention to the urgent challenges faced by the San Diego Humane Society (SDHS), which is now caring for more than 1,900 animals — including 684 dogs — and operating at critical capacity.

Shelters across the nation are reporting record-high surrenders of pets, driven by steep increases in the cost of veterinary care, food, and housing. According to the Bank of America Institute, pet-related service costs have surged 42% since 2019, leaving many families unable to keep their animals.

“This is an incredibly difficult moment for pet owners in San Diego,” said Brian Daugherty, Executive Vice President of SDHS. “Our shelter is over capacity for dogs, and considerably over capacity overall. Rising costs and economic pressures mean more families are being forced to make heartbreaking decisions.”

Why Overcrowding Matters

Animal welfare experts warn that overcrowding puts added stress on shelter animals, leading to increased behavioral challenges. At SDHS, staff are stepping in to provide relief — even pulling animals into offices during the day to give them a calmer environment.

Last year alone, an estimated 5.8 million animals entered shelters nationwide, according to Shelter Animals Count’s national database. The rising demand has stretched resources for organizations that were already operating at capacity.

Solutions and Community Action

To help address the crisis, SDHS is encouraging:

• Adoptions: Special adoption promotions, including 50% off adoption fees in August.
• Fostering: Providing temporary homes to reduce shelter crowding and improve animal well-being.
• Volunteering: Assisting staff with care, enrichment, and community outreach.

A spokesperson for County of San Diego Animal Services emphasized the importance of fostering, noting that “animals are happier and healthier in a home environment, as opposed to a shelter one.”

About Petzuva

Petzuva is The Pet Lover’s Network, connecting animal advocates, professionals, and families with resources that strengthen communities and improve the lives of pets everywhere. By spotlighting urgent stories like those at SDHS, Petzuva helps raise awareness and mobilize action for animal welfare.