Pet Behavior Help

From inappropriate urination to aggression, sometimes animals adopt new behaviors that can be very difficult to cope with, and — without assistance — can leave you feeling helpless. 

• Contact Your Regular Veterinarian: Some issues that appear to be behavioral can be the result of a medical condition, so it is important to rule out all possible medical causes. 

• Explore our Resources: San Diego Humane Society has a resource library of articles addressing a wide range of behavior issues.  

• Pet Training Assistance Fund: Pet owners who apply for assistance and demonstrate need may receive partial or full assistance to cover the expenses of training provided by San Diego Humane Society. Apply for Pet Training Assistance. 

Financial Hardship

While it would be ideal if funding for pet care was as limitless as your love for your pet, we all know that is not always the case. Thankfully, there are some resources that may be useful in helping you keep your pet in the face of hardship. 

• Pet Food Assistance: San Diego Humane Society assists individuals experiencing financial hardship with pet supplies, such as food, cat litter, and more. Learn more about our Community Pet Pantry.  

• Medical Care: San Diego Humane Society offers limited spay/neuter appointments at a lower cost, and low-cost vaccinations and microchips at our El Cajon, Escondido, Oceanside and San Diego campuses. We also operate a Community Veterinary Program at our San Diego Campus for preventative and basic sick care. In addition, we’ve compiled a list of recommended organizations that may be able to assist with medical bills.  

Pet Friendly Housing Options

Moving is stressful, even under the best circumstances. However, there are ways to avoid having to give up your beloved companion. If you are renting, here are some tips for negotiating with potential landlords: 

• Allow yourself extra time to find a residence where pets are allowed. 

• For a list of many (but not all) apartment complexes and landlords that allow pets, please visit Pet-Friendly Housing. 

• When talking to landlords, be honest and offer to introduce your pet(s) to the landlord. This can demonstrate that your pet is well behaved and will not pose a threat to anyone in the community. 

• Providing references from your vet and/or past landlords can help show a prospective landlord you are a committed pet owner. Proving that your pet is current on vaccines shows that you are diligent about providing necessary care. 

• Offer to sign a statement promising to keep all pets indoors or on-leash at all times they are on the premises. 

Military Family Issues

Serving in the military should not mean that you need to give up your pet. San Diego Humane Society can offer support through deployment and relocation processes. To learn about the various services that we offer, visit the Military Support page of our website.

Alternatives & Resources

Many pet-related problems are solvable, and our trained staff is here to help with each unique situation!  

Whether it's a behavior problem, a housing issue or another kind of crisis, we're here to help and offer guidance. Call 619-299-7012 so we can find a solution together. 

• Behavior issues 

• Cost of medical care (Also visit FACE Foundation) 

• Cost of care supplies 

• Housing issues 

• Military issues 

• Rescue Partners 

• Animal Welfare Organizations and Wildlife Services 

• Too many pets / spay and neuter needs