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    OC Animal Care

    2.9 (535 reviews)
    Closed 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
    Updated 2 months ago

    Services - OC Animal Care

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    Postage. Note the date. It is stamped November 5, when it was received and processed by the mail carrier.
    Tam L.

    I don't know how 'Hugo' can ignore people's legitimate concerns, so here's my story and experience. I've been documenting this problem to report to the OC Grand Jury and others. I have blatantly no money, I can prove that with my bank account and my current occupation as a student. I'm cleaning up someone else's mess by caring for these dogs that would either be let out to run away or dead from hunger/fighting each other. No one knows what it's like to deal with back-to-back dog litters while juggling studies and more. Bathing 8+ dogs, and then caring for puppies alone. I'm not exaggerating when I'm saying I have no help with this, I've had no information due to struggling to upkeep everything, and I don't use social media actively, either. I'm currently dealing with a citation that a field officer has modified, and in doing so, she changed the data from the initial citation. This renewed citation has different data on it that is still inaccurate. The certificate of mailing? To the wrong name due to a typo... attached to a document that has the correct name. No one stopped to look at the two as it was mailed together. 10/27 they sent out a notice to comply on licensing the dogs, not knowing I was working with OC Animal Allies to spay/neuter and shelter the dogs. OC AC never contacted me ONCE. BUT on 10/30, that's when the field officer wrote up a corrections to the citation... WHICH WAS NOT MAILED UNTIL 11/05. I've been trying to get my original citation dealt with which had the deadline of 11/03; I COULD HAVE RECEIVED IT THE SAME DAY AND NOT STRESS OVER NOTHING. My citation number was not processed by the courthouse at that date so there was nothing I could've done. But again, this field officer; she went straight to writing a citation, even gave me a notice to comply about the dog ears (7+ dogs worth of poop in the backyard and a 2 week heatwave, plus tendonitis, wtf do you expect?) wrote that I 'permitted' dogs to go without care regarding their ears; YEAH I KNOW, THAT'S WHY I CALLED OC AC FOR HELP YOU *($%'S. Oh and she wanted (Fly strikes), or over-medicate the dogs who really just needed first aid, which I did apply; their ears healed up, and they were inside during their surgery recovery either way. Oh, but OC AC is WONDERFUL, RIGHT? Let's go back to 10/27, the dog licensing. Since they couldn't wait 3 days to bundle everything together, the notice to comply has one set of information, the original citation has a DIFFERENT set of information, and now the updated courthouse information CONTAINS A THIRD SET OF INFORMATION. We can't dismiss the original citation because of the differences of the updated citation data; if she can update it, so can I. OC AA helped me get 3 dogs to a different shelter. Bella became pregnant while I asked OC AC for help and had a mental break down, even tried to post to reddit for help but then I developed severe tendonitis and was bed ridden for 2 weeks, then on/off recovery that would risk having the tendonitis be recurring because this household is useless. Guess the conception date? September 03~September 08. I had asked for help since July, but gave up after they ignored my second email. They would however, call back after that email. I knew the risk of the dogs getting pregnant again, but I physically could not get up after a point. I brought in all dogs during estrus, but it turned out I brought Bella in too late. They wanted a $306 surrender fee for EACH of 6 dogs. $1800+. (GUESS WHAT THE CITATION IS FOR? DOG LIMIT ABOVE 3) The field officer gave me no information and no help whatsoever, instead she was focusing on enforcement, because that's what their field officers are; role-players that act as the animal police. I have a complete documentation of these events including scans of every single document, so I assure you, I have nothing to fabricate here. If you are looking for some sweet angels that need work, go through the drive to the San Clemente-Dana Point animal shelter; it's far, but they took my dogs as a rescue effort. Cocoa, Bandit, Mochi are all looking for homes, and maybe perhaps Buddy (hopefully soon). No one knows what it's like to lose your bed to a pack of 6 dogs who can't stay put unless they're near you, all healing from their surgeries. I had to go through that for my babies, knowing I'd part with them soon after. OC AA helped me end my long-running misery, but also helped me give them a shot at a proper life. For reasons, a dog meant for San Clemente ended up being 'rescued' by OC AC; they assigned him a new coloring, red/white. That dog's had 3 different colors assigned by them. I'm hoping the corrupt animal gestapo don't end up euthanizing him, since I know they can create any reason to. Henry had an umbilical hernia repair, and was finally healing nicely. OC AC did NOTHING to help. 'real heroes', right? Bella gave birth, 1 died, I tried CPR, but too late. They could've temporarily held 3 males to prevent this.

    Kris T.

    Very nice new facility. Their team seems efficient and caring. We were there for an adoption. They have appointments for visits. You check in and request to see a specific resident. You go to a meet and greet area. A team member brings the potential fur baby to you and they can tell you about them. Like age, weight, where they were found or if they were surrendered. It's always a challenge to not take home every resident

    Dude
    Gwyneth N.

    7/7/2025 There was a BUNCH of cats from a crisis event in August with a BUNCH of extra fingers. Talk about choice paralysis when picking your next best friend with 156 choices, but the worker was extremely sweet with giving her advice based on our family needs and she was COMPLETELY accurate. We definitely needed a boy to even out our sassy girls, and he definitely was a personality match! If anyone thinks they have one of his siblings let's set up a play date! Overall love this place and would recommend!

    Andrea H.

    Such a beautiful animal shelter with better maintenance compared to some other shelters I've been to. Went during the regular viewing hours and there were several dogs awaiting a foster or adopter. A lot of big dogs at this shelter right now, I didn't see that many small breeds

    We are so happy we adopted Carla! She has been such a blessing to our family, and we're incredibly excited for this new chapter together. Everyone at the shelter was so sweet, kind, and helpful throughout the adoption process. A special thank-you to the person at the front desk who saved our appointment spot so we could meet her -- that meant so much to us. No regrets at all. Thank you for everything you do and for helping us find our girl! Please adopt Everyone!

    Febe C.

    I just seen a post on TikTok about this girl that took her frenchie to get groomed at this place and they didn't have AC on and it was at 84 degrees and their pup passed away (I inserted the pic and you can see how purple the pup was). To whomever the owner is, you're a piece of straight sh*t. Based on the reviews I read, you suck. Karma ALWAYS comes back. I hope your place shuts down. Can't even imagine all the poor animals that have suffered here

    Vader my kitty
    Liz N.

    I adopted my precious fur baby here ... I came just to look at cats and saw my baby in there with a sign that said timid so immediately I was drawn to him I put my hand in to pet and he nibbled my fingers and that was it ge was mine... I have never had a better cat than this cat... he is a complete velcro cat and is the center of my universe and i found this place so kind and amazing..

    The website lists the pets that are available
    Britney M.

    I called to inquire about pet adoption a couple days ago. I was greeted over the phone and helped by a polite person. The lady was able to give me all of the information for pet adoption, and send me the adoption form to fill out and complete. I completed the form and sent it to them. They called me back and let us know that we were good to adopt. Then we checked the website for doggos to adopt, and found one we wanted to meet. The process was as smooth as silk.

    Ace, one of the most obedient, handsome, and lovable dogs at OCAC.
    Hugo Z.

    Some people are criticizing OCAC here on Yelp... how many dogs have you adopted from OCAC? Have you volunteered to walk and train them? Next time you feel the urge to criticize, maybe adopt a dog or volunteer to help the animals at the front line; see the facts before you criticize from your comfortable home. OCAC supports 17 cities in the Orange County area, unlike other shelters. The reality is there are too many irresponsible animal breeders and owners. It's like trying to empty a bathtub when the faucet is still on full blast. OCAC employees, veterinarians, and Animal Services staff work their hearts out, getting down and dirty with pee and poop all over them, putting in long hours to care for hundreds of animals every single day. They're the real heroes, giving these dogs a safe place, love, and a fighting chance.

    Joobie

    The most beautiful place to find an incredible little furbaby to take home and love I'm very happy I found Joobies sister.

    Rosie plays with leaves for the first time with ziggy.
    v h.

    The reviews on here are bizarre and could even keep people from going and adopting a pet and saving a life, so I must review. A nicely done, modern shelter. It's structured so the cats are in a different area from the dogs so very quiet and stress free for them. Different sorts of animals are also available in this quiet section: chickens, bunnies, gerbals and lizards. My cat was unavailable (grey paws now known as Rosie) due to a medical complication from her spay but she screamed out to me and when I turned our eyes met and the rest is history. I didn't think I was going to connect with anyone after holding several cats during the week as I recently lost my best friend. But there she was and unavailable due to medical. I really admire how they spay and vaccinate all the animals before they ever see the public - with the vision that everyone gets adopted or rescued. It wasn't this way when I adopted my last cats 20 years ago. The staff, esp Stacey, took time to chat with me and talk about our older cats and losing them to Kidney disease which is horrible. It set my mind at ease and opened me up to someone new later in the week. I was also able to chat with them about cat covid, mentioned in these reviews and then do my own research. The fatal kind is RARE. Keep in mind these are rescue cats and can carry all sorts of diseases. It's not realistic to expect that no animal there has an illness or injury... that's why it's called "rescuing". They need help. From what I saw, the team at this shelter is motivated to get the animals to great homes and take good care of them while they are there. Everyone was friendly in the process and even tho my cat was unavailable the staff took cautious steps to make a match with me and consult the vet. They sent me home with antibiotics and told me if there is a serious complication, bring her back there and they will treat her wound. That set my mind at ease. I guess they knew she would do well in a cozy home with personal love and care and that is what she is getting! I have a free coupon for a vet visit and I am taking her to screen for other things and check her incision. Please do not let the reviews on here about animals being sick or injured keep you from finding and saving a wonderful companion.

    Buddy Boyyy!!

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    10 months ago

    if your going to take your dog here, get ready to experience the worst service ever. They don't care about your pets and will neglect them.

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    Page 1 of 14

    Ask the Community - OC Animal Care

    Is OC animal care a no kill shelter?

    OC Animal Care is NOT a no-kill shelter. Their kill rate is on the rise. In 2022, their kill rate for cats was over 25%. In 2023, they are on track to kill a higher percentage of their dogs than the city of Los Angeles.

    Do you guys accept blanket donations ? During this cold terrible weather i really want to give back and make sure the dogs have cozy blankets ♥️ I've been having trouble reaching anyone at any shelter in my area.

    Their website says they accept donations during normal operating hours and are always in need of blankets, towels, and newspapers.

    I wanted to speak to someone about adopting a kitten and I all get on the phone is a distorted sound. Is there a reliable number I can call to speak with a person?

    Expect to wait at least 30 mins on hold. If they don't pick up try another hour or day. The same number on yelp is the one I used to arrange an appointment to meet a kitten I adopted.

    How much is the adoption fee?

    Hi Judy! The adoption fee was $200. My dog was neutered, vaccinated, micro-chipped, and I felt well… Read more

    How does the Deposit hold process work from start to finish? I see on the web you place the $50 hold on a found animal and then wait..If the animal needs to be spayed/neutered, when would you get to visit the animal? I called but they weren't sure.

    Hi there, HL! I personally went to the shelter to see all the dogs. When I saw and found the dog I was interested in, he was "unavailable." That meant that I could not actually "see, hold, or visit" with him until his available date. I think they… Read more

    Is the adoption waiver still happening?

    Hi Vanessa, thanks for reaching out! We are not currently waiving adoption fees. You can check our website (www.ocpetinfo.com) or follow us on any of our current social media platforms for updates and announcements about future events with reduced… Read more

    Does anyone know what company Oc Animal Care uses to microchip their dogs? I adopted my dog almost 2 years ago but I'm not sure which company was used.

    Hi, I'm pretty sure it's AVID...but there are a couple of different companies that chip.... Sorry I… Read more

    Does this location take donations of old blankets for the dogs?

    I think so. It doesn't hurt to try. I gave them kitten formula milk and they took it.

    I have a cat but now I cannot take care of her anymore. My home owner asks me to give her away. I adopted her from one of my friend and she does not have any id... can oc animal shelter accept her?

    Yes , I think they will take her

    Could you volunteer here?

    Yes! I believe there's a process and if you go inside the office, they'll give you the proper information.

    Where can i go to geta kitten?

    Shelters usually have a TON of kittens during the spring. I would check again during that time. The OC shelter had a few the last time we stopped by a few weeks ago though. Check their online webpage for what animals are available.

    Lost my female yellow lab. 8 years old , very smart in Irvine , Laguna hills area yesterday. need help. Please any info contact me , any ideas of a place to post pics and description?

    There is a website called Pawboost and you can post a picture of your pet and the city where she was lost. I have seen a lot of people find their pets on this website.

    I was wondering if OC Animal Care accepts every major credit cards for the adoption fees?

    I think I paid with a credit card .. I am sure you can call them and ask

    View All 23 Questions

    Review Highlights - OC Animal Care

    Please, if you're "in the market" for a pet, save an animals life and ADOPT from this shelter.

    Mentioned in 9 reviews

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    Irvine Animal Care Center - Max when he was a bit younger and healthier!

    Irvine Animal Care Center

    (243 reviews)

    I thank Irvine Animal Care Center for their patience with my childhood dog, Max, and taking care of…read morehim during his time here when he was wrongfully dropped off a few days prior. The process to have him back was easy and communication was perfect since all my questions were answered today. Even providing me with multiple resources for possible low-cost euthanasia services was also very helpful for me and saved me a lot of time. The staff were all very friendly as well. Thank you guys for listening to my explanation on the matter. Because I was able to have him back, I was able to move forward with euthanizing him at a pet hospital that my friend works at and was able to be with him in his last moments just a few hours ago. I really do appreciate all of your help for allowing me to be with him and let him go peacefully. Thank you so much.

    I'm confused by all the reviewers saying they had trouble with the staff when trying to turn in a…read morestray animal that was found. I worked in Irvine and frequently ate lunch at the food court on Main Street/Jamboree. One day, leaving the food court, I found a dog outside in the pouring down rain vomiting by the trash cans. The dog gladly jumped into my car to get out of the down pour and I drove it to this animal shelter (yes, it vomited all over the back seat of my car). Not only did they take the dog in immediately with no questions asked, they helped me clean up my car. This place is amazing

    California Doodle Rescue - Foster girl #2

    California Doodle Rescue

    (138 reviews)

    We just adopted Tilia, a 6 month old Goldendoodle. The process, from application to adoption and…read morebeyond has been terrific. After saying goodbye to our 17 year old Labradoodle at the end of last year, we found out there are a lot of doodles that need homes. We found California Doodle Rescue, and started to look at what dogs and puppies they had available. We are so glad we did! Tilia is the most sweet, loving doodle with an amazing disposition given what her first 6 mos might have looked like, she is learning fast and interested in exploring the world around her. She is a perfect fit for our household and we feel blessed to have taken the adoption route!! Thank you to Jennifer, our contact there, and to the foster we met when we picked up Tilia. If you love doodles this is a GREAT way to go and makes a huge difference.

    If you're looking to re-home your furry friend, hoping to foster, or ready to become someone's…read morefurever home, I highly recommend California Doodle Rescue! I had the pleasure of being a first-time foster, and it was such a warm, loving experience. The only "downside"? Totally falling in love with my foster . The entire fostering process was smooth thanks to their consistent support they checked in daily, explained everything clearly, and offered helpful guidance whenever I needed it. I would absolutely foster again in the future and, who knows, maybe even adopt a little fur blessing of my own

    Girls Of Dog Rescue - Our rescue pug mix

    Girls Of Dog Rescue

    (87 reviews)

    I have spent time reading through the reviews for Girls of Dog Rescue, and I am honestly…read moredisappointed by the one-star reviews left by people who were denied adoption due to the rescue's clearly stated rules. Shame on anyone who tries to damage a rescue organization simply because they couldn't accept that they didn't meet the adoption requirements. These rules are in place for one reason: the safety and lifelong well-being of the dogs. Girls of Dog Rescue is strict because they care. They limit adoptions by location so they can conduct proper home visits and ensure each dog is placed in a safe, stable environment. That level of responsibility should be applauded, not criticized. People also forget that rescues are not free to operate. Vet bills, spay/neuter surgeries, medications, vaccinations, food, and rehabilitation for neglected dogs all cost money. Expecting a rescued dog to be "free" ignores the reality of what these organizations take on to save lives. I also appreciate that this rescue requires their dogs to be seen by their designated veterinarian until the dogs reach a certain age. This ensures the dogs receive proper medical care and are spayed or neutered, rather than relying on promises that may never be kept. To those leaving one-star reviews because you were denied: this isn't personal -- it's responsible rescue work. To Girls of Dog Rescue: thank you for putting the dogs first, even when it's unpopular. The glowing, five-star reviews from successful adopters clearly speak louder than the complaints from those who didn't qualify.

    After recently losing my beloved Yorkie of 9 years, my husband and I decided to honor her memory by…read morerescuing rather than purchasing from a breeder. We came across an adorable Shih Tzu pair (a brother and sister) and submitted an application expressing interest in one of them. Within seconds of submitting, I received a call. The representative hadn't read my application at all. When she asked if I currently had a dog and I explained mine had just passed, there was zero acknowledgment; no condolences, nothing. She then informed me it was "unethical" to adopt just one puppy and that I'd need to take both. When I agreed to take both, she reversed course, saying the siblings would "fight" and I couldn't take them together. When I offered to adopt two unrelated dogs instead, the story changed again; apparently a doctor had just been approved for the dog I applied for, mid-conversation, and I was redirected to a one-year-old Yorkie before being abruptly dismissed. The inconsistencies were glaring, the policies shifted in real time, and the entire interaction was handled without a shred of compassion. I am a registered nurse and my husband works in the entertainment industry; we are experienced, attentive pet owners who gave our Yorkie an exceptional life. None of that was considered because my application was never actually reviewed. This experience is precisely why so many people turn to breeders and pet stores instead of rescues. When grieving applicants are met with dismissiveness, fabricated barriers, and contradictory excuses, it doesn't serve the animals; it leaves them in shelters longer. I hope the organization takes a hard look at how their team communicates with prospective adopters.

    OC Animal Care - animalshelters - Updated May 2026

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