Resources

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SVACA staff is available to offer advice, support, and resources to the community and their companion animals. Basic information and links to more information are offered as a way to help those looking for assistance to help their companions.

Animal Ordinances

In order to protect people from animals and animals from people, SVACA enforces state and local animal control laws. Please help us keep everyone safe by familiarizing yourself with your city’s local animal ordinances.

Leash Laws

While the majority of the calls SVACA receives regard roaming dogs, local ordinances require that all animals be properly confined to the owner’s property.

Roaming Dogs

Here’s what to do if you find a dog running loose:

If you feel safe doing so, confine the dog on your property and call SVACA at (408) 764-0344 and an officer will collect him.
If you are unable to catch the dog or you know of a dog in your neighborhood that regularly runs loose, call SVACA during regular business hours at (408) 764-0344.

If the SVACA Animal Care Center is closed, please call us at (408) 764-0344 and listen to the recorded message containing information on stray animal services.

Dogs Off Leash

In most public places, dogs are required to be on a leash at all times. In some public places, such as some city parks, dogs are never allowed leashed or unleashed. Please read all signs before entering a park with a leashed dog to ensure that they are allowed. Failure to do so may result in citations and fines. View more information on dog parks.

Animal Care

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Providing proper animal care will lead to a healthier and happier animal companion. Please visit the following sites for many practical animal care tips to keep your companion animal healthy and happy.

Companion Animal Cupboard

The Companion Animal Cupboard is available to residents of Campbell, Los Gatos, Monte Sereno, Mountain View and Santa Clara who are experiencing financial hardship. Proof of government assistance is required to qualify for this program. Through the generosity of Friends of SVACA and donations from the community, we are able to provide food and supplies on a monthly basis to families with companion animals. Contact staff@svaca.com for more information.

Animal Loss

The loss of a cherished companion can be devastating for the entire family and we offer a few links to help you through this challenging time. Staff are available to speak with those who need further assistance. If you have lost a companion animal and are in need of information on how to cope with this, the following links may provide some help.

Behavior Problems

Behavior problems often lead to frustration and the belief that an animal must be given away to a new home or surrendered to a shelter. Aside from the resources offered, SVACA staff can also be contacted for advice. Dog parks help to keep dogs socialized and well-mannered.

Companion animal behavior issues can be stressful for both you and your animal. If your animal begins to exhibit unusual or troubling behavior, there are many resources you can access for help. SVACA recommends that all dog guardians, at the very least, enroll in a basic training class which can help to remedy existing problems and prevent new ones from developing.

Please visit the Best Friends Pet Care Library for more information.

Disaster Preparedness

Dog Parks

Exercise and socialization are two key ingredients to making a dog healthy and happy. A dog park is a great place to make this happen!

SVACA recommends that all dogs be enrolled in a basic training and socialization course before being allowed to play in a dog park. If your dog has aggression issues to people or other dogs, then a dog park is not a place for him to play. Please consult with a local humane dog trainer if you are having problems; visit the Humane Society Silicon Valley to learn more about humane training and how to select a trainer.

Where can we play?

Last Updated:

03-14-2025