Surrendering your pet?
We understand that parting with a beloved pet is an incredibly difficult decision. Before making that choice, explore the resources and options below - there may be ways to keep your pet with you or find a new home without involving a shelter.
Is your pet exhibiting behavior issues? Are you facing housing challenges or life changes that make pet care difficult? You’re not alone. Many pet owners experience these struggles.
Before you decide to surrender, see below for common issues and practical solutions that could help you keep your pet as part of your family. We also provide guidance on how to responsibly rehome your pet yourself, which can reduce stress for your animal and ease the transition.
Financial Support
There are programs available that can help. From local pet food pantries to veterinary assistance, explore the financial resources that may be able to support you and your pet through tough times.
Common Pet Challenges & Solutions
Many issues - like training difficulties, behavioral problems, or even allergies - can be addressed with the right support.
Rehoming Your Pet
If surrendering feels like the only option, consider finding a new home for your pet directly. Keeping your pet in your home while you search for a new guardian helps reduce stress and gives you more control over their future.
Still need to surrender your pet?
Due to high demand and limited space, there may be a waiting period before we have room to accept your surrendered pet. Thank you for understanding.
If you are a Yolo County resident and have explored all alternatives without success, surrendering your pet to Yolo County Animal Services (YCAS) may be an option. While you wait for an opening to surrender your pet, we can help you get started with creating a courtesy post on our Petfinder page. Email us at ycaslostpets@yolocounty.org with a few photos of your pet, phone and email contact info, as well as a bio explaining your pet’s name, age, gender, and personality.
Once we receive your email, we will add you to our waiting list for owner surrenders so that if a space opens up at the shelter we can contact you.
The fee to surrender a pet to our shelter is $25.