With nearly 55 years of animal rescue under its collar, Woods Humane Society is one of San Luis Obispo County’s favorite local nonprofits. Here dogs and cats waiting for their forever families find respite under the loving care of dedicated staff and volunteers. The state-of-the-art facilities include a large cattery, spacious dog kennels, on-site spay and neutering, and three off-leash dog areas. All pets adopted from Woods are spayed or neutered, micro-chipped, updated on vaccines and given a free vet check from a local veterinarian. With a 95 percent adoption rate, one of the highest in the nation, Woods is certainly something to bark about.
The Woods event calendar is packed with adoption promotions, exciting fundraisers, animal educational classes and outreach programs all year long. Every fall, Woods hosts the Annual Wiggle Waggle Walk. A combined fundraiser and reunion of Woods alumni, this event is one of the most popular community projects in SLO. Critter Camp teaches children about caring for animals while easing the stressful wait time often experienced by shelter dogs. With daily field trips, informative demonstrations and fun crafts, Critter Campers learn how to advocate for all animals in need. A more formal affair, The Great Catsby is a roaring good time with fine food, entertainment and silent auction that is the pride of the county. Combining San Luis Obispo County’s love for pets and wine, a popular fundraiser for Woods is the annual Wine 4 Paws. During this weekend, select wineries donate tasting fees and a portion of all wine purchases to this worthy cause.
Potential adopters can peruse the available Woods animals online or in person, or use the Woods animal matching service by filling out a matchmaker form. Dogs at Woods also learn basic obedience from the on-site K-9 trainer, making the transition from shelter to family easier for all.
