Supporting Pet Owners in Simi Valley: Resources to Keep Pets Healthy and at Home

Supporting Pet Owners in Simi Valley: Resources to Keep Pets Healthy and at Home

Life events such as job loss, eviction, divorce or death, can make it difficult for pet owners to care for their beloved animals. In response, local organizations and services are offering a variety of resources to help families keep their pets out of shelters and in their homes.

1. Pet Food Assistance:

For those facing challenges in providing pet food, Ventura County Animal Services (VCAS) offers a Pet Food Pantry. The program is supported by generous donations from VCAS partners, local businesses and community members.  Visit the Camarillo Animal Shelter during normal business hours to ask about pet food at no cost or call (805) 388-4341 to inquire about receiving free pet food. Applications for assistance can also be submitted directly through the Pet Pantry Application.

The Humane Society of Ventura County also helps keep pets with their families by providing free pet food through several programs. It's Pet Food Bank, located within the shelter at 402 Bryant St. in Ojai, offers free dry and wet dog and cat food any time Monday through Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Additionally, the Pantry 4 Paws program provides food at remote pet food banks throughout Ventura County. The newest program, DoorDash PET, delivers free pet food within a 10-mile radius of participating locations.

2. Spay/Neuter, Vaccination and Microchipping Services:

Spaying, neutering, vaccinations, and microchipping are crucial for pet health and population control. Several local organizations and clinics offer these services at reduced rates or for free.  

Low cost vaccinations: Humane Society of Ventura County, Mercy Crusade, local Petco stores, and Theresa’s Country Feed & Pet.  
Low-cost spay or neuter services:  Humane Society of Ventura County, Simi Valley Non-Profit Spay & Neuter Clinic, and Spay & Neuter Animal Network.

3. Veterinary Assistance Programs

Affordable veterinary care is essential for keeping pets healthy. Simi Valley residents can access low-cost clinics offering vaccinations, wellness exams, and treatment for minor ailments. A comprehensive list of veterinary resources is available through Ventura County Animal Services.

4. Supporting Military Pet Families

For military families facing deployment, organizations like Dogs on Deployment offer temporary rehoming services.

5. Emergency Preparedness for Pets:

Planning ahead for emergencies is crucial for pet safety. The Center for Disease Control provides a Pet Disaster Kit Checklist to help pet owners prepare.

6 Domestic Violence Support:

Are you staying in an abusive relationship for fear of what may happen to your pet if you leave? If so, please contact Interface Child and Family Services by dialing “211.”  After arrangements have been made with Interface, VCAS can place your pet(s) in a secure and private temporary foster home if needed. For immediate assistance, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at (800) 799-7233.

7. Housing and Eviction Resources:

If facing eviction, pet owners with disabilities may qualify to keep their Emotional Support Animal (ESA) as a reasonable accommodation under Fair Housing laws. For more information, consult the Emotional Support Animals and Fair Housing Law and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development for further details.

Ventura County Animal Services cares deeply about pet owners and their pets. By utilizing these resources, pet owners can keep their pets healthy, happy and at home. Ventura Animal Services' shelters are available to provide advice, connect you with resources, and offer temporary care solutions, ensuring no pet is unnecessarily surrendered.  
For more information or assistance, please contact Ventura County Animal Services at (805) 388-4341.