C.A.R.E.4Paws is launching its Community Cares Campaign, building on more than $250,000 raised at its Happy Tails fundraiser. A $60,000 match from that event will double donations made throughout May.

The non-profit reports a sharp increase in demand for services as more families seek help to keep pets healthy and at home.

Isabelle Gullö of the agency notes rising costs are pushing more families to the edge. More families are turning to local support programs as expenses continue to rise. Donations made this in May will be doubled.

Edhat Santa Barbara | Saturday, May 9, 2026 |

The Happy Tails event featured oceanfront views, vegetarian and vegan cuisine by Whiskey ’N Rye, local wines, cocktails and mocktails, and craft beer by Rincon Brewery. Guests also enjoyed silent and live auctions, along with a program highlighting the impact of C.A.R.E.4Paws’ services and the importance of community partnerships in expanding access to care.

Since 2009, C.A.R.E.4Paws has worked to reduce pet overpopulation and improve pet family welfare by providing access to veterinary care, pet food, supplies and critical support services. The organization serves more than 25,000 pets and their people each year across Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties. Programs include Mobile Community Medicine & Spay/Neuter Outreach, Veterinary Partner Services, Companion Pet Assistance and Safe Haven, as well as the recently launched Pet Refuge, which provides confidential emergency boarding for pets during times of crisis.

Every month, the nonprofit reaches hundreds of pet families who would otherwise go without care, like Esmir Mellin and her beloved dog Rocky, featured in the photo. Without the veterinary care provided by C.A.R.E.4Paws’ mobile clinic team and veterinary partner services, Rocky would not have survived a life-threatening illness. “Rocky is my baby and I don’t know what I would do without him,” says Mellin. “C.A.R.E.4Paws provided the medicine and helped me with food. They are always here for us and treat us like family. Rocky would not be here today if it wasn’t for them.”

Isabelle Gullö notes that as the cost of veterinary care and basic pet needs continues to rise, so does the demand for C.A.R.E.4Paws’ services. “The Community Cares Campaign is an opportunity for everyone, no matter the size of their gift, to be part of the solution and help keep pets healthy and with the people who love them. Because every pet deserves a healthy life, and every family deserves the chance to provide it.”

Community members can participate in the campaign in many meaningful ways, including by making a donation, starting a Facebook birthday fundraiser to engage friends and family, organizing a team fundraiser or matching challenge at work and by sponsoring spay/neuter surgeries, wellness exams and other essential care for pets in need. Every action helps reach more pets and families who need support.

To learn more or contribute, visit care4paws.org/community. For event highlights and photos, visit care4paws.org/happytails.

Edhat Santa Barbara | Saturday, March 14, 2026 |

The Pet Refuge operates through a trusted, confidential boarding partner, with additional oversight and support from C.A.R.E.4Paws staff and volunteers. Together, they ensure pets receive daily care, enrichment and veterinary support while staying in a safe and secure environment.

The program serves pet families navigating difficult circumstances such as domestic violence, hospitalization, deportation proceedings and displacement from disasters like wildfires or other unexpected crises that temporarily prevent them from caring for their animals. Unlike animal shelters or rescue programs, the goal of the Pet Refuge is temporary care and reunification, allowing pets to return home once their families are able to care for them again.

Now that the refuge structure is in place, C.A.R.E.4Paws is working to raise at least $20,000 to support the pets staying at the Refuge. Beyond monetary gifts toward veterinary care and food, the organization is grateful for donations of supplies, including Kuranda beds (raised, chew-resistant dog beds), cat bedding, cozy blankets, as well as Kongs and other types of durable chew toys.

“Every single donation makes a meaningful difference,” says Gullö. “With the community’s help, we can ensure the refuge is a safe, welcoming place for pets whose families are navigating some of life’s toughest challenges.”

To donate, visit care4paws.org/donate. To learn more about the Pet Refuge project, visit care4paws.org/petrefuge. Survivors seeking support can contact C.A.R.E.4Paws at 805-335-7524 or safehaven@care4paws.org. Anyone in immediate danger should call 911.