Dog Adoption & Welfare Group, Santa Barbara

We have been excited to partner with the Santa Barbara Dog Adoption & Welfare Group, also known as SB DAWG, for some time. They do an amazing job providing a safe and loving environment for dogs that are waiting for their furever homes. Every day we are amazed and in total gratitude for all the people and volunteers that do everything in their power to make the world a better place for animals and in this case, Dawgs!

Lens And Leash: What Is Your Shelter/Rescue’s Name And What Year Was It Formed?

SB DAWG: DAWG, 1991, 11 employees, 200 volunteers

Lens And Leash: Where Is Your Rescue Located?

SB DAWG: 5480 Overpass Road, Santa Barbara, CA 93111

Lens And Leash: How Many Animals Can You House At A Time?

SB DAWG: 44 dogs average

Lens And Leash: Are You Considered A No Kill Shelter? If Not, What Does That Mean?

SB DAWG: We are a No-Kill shelter!

Lens And Leash: How Do You Encourage People To Adopt?

SB DAWG: DAWG does not encourage adoptions, but spend time with the potential adopters to assure that our adoptions will be successful. We provide training for each potential adopter, specific to the dog chosen. We do promote our dogs on social media, at adoption events, and via our website.

Lens And Leash: Do You Have Any Events Or Projects That You Are Currently Running Or Planning For?

SB DAWG: Open houses, donation drives, rummage sales, volunteer orientations and training, and off-site adoption events.

Lens And Leash: If We Could Help In Any Way Possible, What Would You Ask For?

SB DAWG: Photography for our website would be a great help! We are by appointment only a majority of our week – so our web presence is must be strong. We are also a non-profit rescue – so any monetary or supply donation is always greatly appreciated.

Lens And Leash: What Is The Average Number Of Animals Needing To Be Adopted Each Month?

SB DAWG: All of our dogs are adoptable. We average forty-four dogs at all times. Our adoption numbers vary from month to month, depending on the length of time needed for medical care, behavioral care, and training with adopters.

Lens And Leash: What Is The Best Way For People In Your Community To Help?

SB DAWG: Volunteering, donating, and adopting!

Lens And Leash: What Is The Best Way To Help Reduce The Number Of Euthanizations Per Year Besides Spay And Neutering?

SB DAWG: We are able to lower the euthanasia rate due to our willingness and ability to rehabilitate, both medically and behaviorally. We have a full-time veterinarian and a full-time trainer on staff. Dogs in our area are not being euthanized due to overcrowded county shelters, they are being euthanized due to health and/or behavioral issues. Once the shelters in our county deem a dog “unadoptable”, we step forward to help. We are literally giving these dogs a last chance at life!