Animal Services

Just as his name suggests, Red is a Golden Retriever-mix with a beautiful red coat.

We are thrilled to invite you to a special Open House in celebration of 30 years of compassion, care, and community at Mission Viejo Animal Services!

Join us for this exciting event featuring a tour of our shelter, a wildlife education presentation, an opportunity to chat with our dedicated staff, a kids' craft activity, and the chance to meet some of our adorable, adoptable animals! Learn more about our mission and see firsthand the impact of our work while connecting with others who share a passion for animal welfare. 

As a result of the devastating Airport Fire, which has burned nearly 23,500 acres of habitat in the Santa Ana Mountains, Mission Viejo Animal Services is alerting the public of what to do when encountering wildlife injured or displaced by the blaze. Large fires often cause animals to flee into urban areas and many may be injured, disoriented, or lost. In the Santa Ana Mountains, wildlife affected by the fire may include birds such as small birds, hawks and owls, and mammals like raccoons, opossums, foxes, bobcats, and even mountain lions.

Mission Viejo Animal Services successfully rescued a stray dog now named "Journey” that had avoided capture despite several attempts.

Journey was first reported over a month ago, with residents often spotting her wandering the streets of Laguna Niguel. Each time Animal Control Officers got close, she quickly ran away. 

Was 1993 really more than three decades ago?

September is Responsible Dog Ownership Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about the responsibilities of being a dog owner. Whether you're a seasoned pet parent or considering bringing a dog into your home, this month is a great opportunity to reflect on what it means to provide a happy, healthy, and safe environment for your furry friend.

Why Responsible Dog Ownership Matters

Porter is a handsome 1-year-old German Shepherd mix that is always ready for his next adventure.

After 10 newborn puppies were thrown out of a vehicle and abandoned in the bushes, the Mission Viejo Animal Services Center is reminding residents that when faced with relinquishing pets, the center has options.

Patty Cakes and Lil Miss Muffet are an adorable and sweet bonded pair of sisters. They were found running loose in the middle of a soccer game in the Inland Empire, and Mission Viejo Animal Services staffers were able to take them through the “Mission for a Home” rescue program. 

Captain is a 3-year-old male Siberian husky that is a perfect example of the breed. 

Handsome, confident and freethinking, Captain is the perfect partner for a husky-lover seeking to add to the pack. Siberian huskies don't typically wait in eager anticipation for their owners' next command. They are free spirits and adventurists.  Huskies can be jokesters, explorers and always a best friend. They enjoy chasing toys in the yard and being curled up by their people. They have a taste for mischief and mayhem and are not always easy to train but are still amazing dogs.