Santa Barbara Humane Waives Fees For Large Dogs During Adoption Campaign
Santa Barbara Humane is teaming up with Hill’s Pet Nutrition for a four-day adoption campaign that waives fees for dogs weighing 40 pounds or larger. Running from October 1 through October 4, 2026, the “Home Sweet Homecoming” event takes place at both the Santa Barbara campus at 5399 Overpass Road and the Santa Maria campus at 1687 W. Stowell Road, according to independent.com.
Hill’s Pet Nutrition Offsets Large Dog Adoption Fees
Adoptions are open from 12:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. each day of the event. During the campaign, Hill’s Pet Nutrition will contribute up to $100,000 to offset adoption fees at select Food, Shelter & Love partner locations across the United States. At Santa Barbara Humane, these waived fees apply specifically to eligible large dogs weighing 40 pounds or more.
Every adopter receives a New Pet Parent Kit from Hill’s. The kit contains a starter bag of Hill’s Science Diet, coupons, and post-adoption tips to help transition the animal into a new home.

Why Large Dogs Wait Longer
Larger dogs often spend more time in shelters waiting for families to choose them. Kerri Burns, CEO of Santa Barbara Humane, noted that despite this wait, larger animals offer exceptional companionship. Burns stated that the campaign gives these dogs extra attention and encourages prospective adopters to visit the campuses to find the right match.
139 Years Of Animal Welfare In Santa Barbara County
Operating as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, Santa Barbara Humane serves as the oldest animal welfare agency in Santa Barbara County with a history spanning more than 139 years. The organization provides affordable veterinary care, affordable dog training, adoption services, and socially conscious sheltering across its two regional campuses. Because the agency receives no federal funding, it relies on local donor support to sustain its programs for local animals and families.
What Are the Adoption Event Dates and Rules?
What are the specific dates and times for the adoption event?
The campaign runs from October 1 through October 4, 2026. Daily adoption hours are from 12:00 to 4:30 p.m.
Which animals qualify for waived adoption fees?
Adoption fees are waived exclusively for eligible large dogs weighing 40 pounds or more at the Santa Barbara and Santa Maria campuses.
Is Santa Barbara Humane affiliated with national organizations?
Santa Barbara Humane operates as an independent organization and maintains no affiliation with the Humane Society of the United States or the ASPCA.