DAWG provides a safe and loving environment for dogs awaiting permanent adoption, and promotes their adoption through outreach programs in the Santa Barbara community.

Our primary goal is to reduce the rate of euthanasia in Santa Barbara County shelters by providing the medical care and training many dogs need for a second chance at life. DAWG strives to represent the population of all homeless dogs regardless of breed, age, gender, or disability.

Since DAWG’s inception in 1991, we have worked hard to bring out the best in our dogs, improving their quality of life during their stay at the shelter, and placing healthy, well-behaved dogs back into the community.