Humane Law Enforcement
Report an Animal Emergency
Rattlesnake response: Our Humane Field Services Team responds to rattlesnake calls if the snake is causing imminent danger to humans or domestic animals, such as if the snake is inside a residence or business, or is blocking an entrance or exit.
If you live in San Diego Humane Society's jurisdiction*, report an animal-related emergency by calling 619-299-7012 (press 1).
* View jurisdictions by zip code to determine the animal service provider that covers your area.
For animal-related emergencies in the following locations, please contact the corresponding animal control provider:
- Chula Vista, Imperial Beach and Lemon Grove residents should contact Chula Vista Animal Care and Control at 619-476-2476.
- Coronado residents should contact the Coronado Police Department at 619-522-7350.
- National City residents should contact the National City Police Department at 619-336-4411.
- Residents of unincorporated areas of San Diego County should contact the County of San Diego Department of Animal Services at 619-236-2341.
San Diego Humane Society handles animal complaints (stray pets, off-leash dogs, etc.) for the cities of Carlsbad, Del Mar, El Cajon, Encinitas, Escondido, La Mesa, Oceanside, Poway, San Diego, San Marcos, Santee, Solana Beach and Vista. Please see below for information about animal noise complaints.
If you are a resident outside these cities and have a concern about a loud animal, see a loose or vicious animal, or find an injured animal, refer to our Jurisdiction Chart to determine which agency to call.
Report Animal Cruelty
Please note, animal cruelty investigations do not include barking dogs, loud cats or loose animals. To report a case of animal cruelty or neglect, call 619-299-7012 (press 1) or fill out this online Animal Cruelty Form. Alternatively, you can mail in or drop off a hard copy of this Animal Cruelty Form (PDF Version). All reports may be submitted anonymously.
Report a Dog Bite
To help us address your dog bite report efficiently, please fill out and submit the online form below before calling.
Barking Dog and Animal Noise Complaints
View our Jurisdiction Chart to determine which agency handles noise complaints in your area.
If you are a resident in the City of San Diego, barking dog complaints are handled by the city’s Code Enforcement Department. Please use this link to file your report:
Animal noise complaints for the cities of Carlsbad, Del Mar, El Cajon, Encinitas, Escondido, La Mesa, Oceanside, Poway, San Marcos, Santee, Solana Beach and Vista are handled by San Diego Humane Society.
If you are a resident outside these cities and have a concern about a loud animal, call your local police agency or code compliance department.
To help us address barking dog complaints more efficiently, please complete and submit the form beow.
About San Diego Humane Society's Humane Law Enforcement
San Diego Humane Society has a long history of protecting animals — beginning in 1880, when our officers issued the first fine for animal cruelty to “Mr. Collins’ boy for overriding a colt.” Since then, our Humane Law Enforcement team has remained committed to ensuring animals are treated with compassion and respect, while also supporting the people who care for them.
Today, our officers are in the field seven days a week, responding to reports of suspected cruelty and neglect. Appointed by the State of California, they are authorized under Corporations Code 14502 to enforce animal protection laws and have the powers of peace officers during investigations. Each officer receives extensive training in humane law, animal care and ongoing professional development to serve their communities with skill and compassion.
In addition, our Field Team supports this vital work by responding to urgent, non-enforcement calls — such as helping sick or injured animals in need of immediate care.
A group of highly-trained staff and volunteers dedicated to assisting animals and people during disasters by safely evacuating horses, farm animals, and household pets.
Become a licenced Humane Officer.
Leash Laws
Keeping dogs on leash when in public not only protects other animals and people, but it keeps them safe as well. It is illegal to walk your dog off leash unless you are in a designated off-leash area.
The law specifies that:
Even if you are confident your dog will stay by your side without a leash, being off-leash could still make other dogs uncomfortable and put your dog in danger. Leash laws are in place to ensure the safety of both dogs and the people who love them.
