Community
San Diego County opens new Santee animal shelter
The East County facility replaces the former Bonita shelter and expands space for adoptions, veterinary care and disaster response.
San Diego County highlighted its new Santee Animal Shelter on Tuesday, five days after the facility opened at 452 Riverview Parkway. County Animal Services says all sheltering operations from the permanently closed Bonita location have moved to Santee.
Opened: October 15, 2026
Service area: Unincorporated communities in East and South County
Public services: Pet adoption, affordable spay and neuter, vaccinations and basic wellness care
Built for routine care and emergencies
The county describes the approximately 20,000-square-foot facility as a hub for animal intake during local disasters and emergency-response deployment. Plans also include activity yards, an outdoor livestock area and a secured courtyard. Sustainability features are designed to let the building generate as much energy as it uses over a year.
Official announcement: Read the County News Center story →
Service information: Visit San Diego County Animal Services →