An organization located in San Mateo, California, provides shelter, care, and adoption services for animals. It focuses on promoting animal welfare and preventing cruelty through various programs and initiatives.
The institution offers significant benefits to the community by rescuing and rehabilitating animals in need, finding them permanent homes, and educating the public about responsible pet ownership. Its history reflects a long-standing commitment to animal advocacy and improving the lives of companion animals.
The following article will delve further into specific initiatives, volunteer opportunities, adoption processes, and community outreach programs supported by the San Mateo-based animal welfare organization.
1. Adoption Services
Adoption services are the lifeblood of the San Mateo Humane Society, a central tenet of its mission to find suitable homes for animals in its care. These services transcend mere placement; they represent a commitment to matching each animal with a family prepared to offer lifelong support and affection.
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Matching Process
The organization employs a rigorous matching process, going beyond simple availability. Potential adopters complete detailed applications, undergo interviews, and, in some cases, have their homes visited. This meticulous approach aims to ensure compatibility between the animal’s needs and the adopter’s lifestyle. One recalls the story of a senior dog named Barnaby, whose gentle nature was perfectly suited to a quiet, retired couple seeking companionship. The Society’s careful assessment ensured a harmonious match, allowing Barnaby to thrive in his golden years.
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Post-Adoption Support
Commitment extends beyond the adoption day. The Society provides ongoing support to adopters, offering advice on training, behavior, and healthcare. This ensures that both the animal and the family are well-equipped to navigate the challenges and joys of pet ownership. Consider the case of a family who adopted a fearful rescue dog. The Society provided them with access to behavioral specialists, empowering them to slowly build trust and confidence in their new companion.
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Adoption Events
Regular adoption events showcase the animals and engage with the community. These events serve a dual purpose: raising awareness of the adoptable animals and educating the public about responsible pet ownership. The atmosphere is filled with hope and excitement, fostering a connection between potential adopters and animals awaiting their forever homes. One could witness, at a recent event, a young boy falling in love with a playful kitten, his face lighting up at the prospect of welcoming a new member into his family.
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Special Needs Adoptions
Recognizing that all animals deserve a loving home, the organization actively facilitates special needs adoptions. This involves finding homes for animals with chronic health conditions, disabilities, or behavioral challenges. These adoptions require careful consideration and a willingness to provide specialized care. A blind cat found a home with an understanding owner who ensured the environment was tailored to its safety and mobility. This emphasizes that empathy and adaptation lead to successful integration.
These facets demonstrate the intricate and compassionate nature of adoption services. The dedication of the Society’s staff and volunteers is evident in their commitment to making each adoption a success, reinforcing its vital role in the community and furthering the goal of providing every animal with a loving, permanent home. This unwavering pursuit remains at the heart of the Society’s operations and ideals.
2. Animal Shelter
The physical structure known as the animal shelter is more than just bricks and mortar for the San Mateo Humane Society; it’s the heart of its operations, the place where second chances begin for countless animals. Within its walls, stories of rescue, rehabilitation, and hope unfold daily, shaping the lives of both animals and the people who care for them.
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Intake and Assessment
The journey for an animal at the shelter begins with intake and assessment. Each arrival, whether a stray, a surrender, or a rescue, is carefully examined. Veterinary staff conduct health checks, administer vaccinations, and begin treating any visible ailments. Behaviorists observe the animal’s temperament to understand its needs and potential challenges. One recalls the case of a timid terrier named Shadow, found wandering the streets, cowering at every sound. The shelter’s team slowly earned his trust, revealing a loving and playful companion hidden beneath his initial fear.
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Housing and Care
The shelter provides housing tailored to the needs of different species and individuals. Kennels are cleaned and disinfected daily, ensuring a sanitary environment. Animals receive nutritious food, fresh water, and regular exercise. Volunteers dedicate hours to walking dogs, playing with cats, and providing socialization. A senior cat with arthritis benefited from a specially designed heated bed and extra attention from volunteers, ensuring his comfort and well-being during his stay.
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Medical Treatment
A dedicated veterinary clinic within the shelter provides essential medical treatment. From routine check-ups to complex surgeries, the veterinary team works tirelessly to heal injured and sick animals. Dental procedures, tumor removals, and treatment for infectious diseases are all part of the daily routine. One instance was a dog struck by a car. The clinic nursed the dog back to health to recover into good condition.
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Enrichment and Socialization
Recognizing that mental well-being is as important as physical health, the shelter provides enrichment and socialization opportunities. Toys, puzzles, and interactive games stimulate the animals’ minds and prevent boredom. Group play sessions allow dogs to interact with one another under supervision, fostering social skills. Volunteers lead training classes, teaching basic commands and helping animals become more adoptable. The enrichment helped a neglected dog named Lucky transform from timid to confident.
These facets collectively paint a picture of the animal shelter as a dynamic and compassionate environment. It’s a place where animals receive the care they need to heal and prepare for their new lives. The San Mateo Humane Society’s commitment to providing a safe and nurturing shelter underscores its dedication to animal welfare and its role as a vital resource in the community. The shelter doesn’t merely house animals; it rebuilds lives, offering hope and a pathway to a brighter future.
3. Veterinary Care
Veterinary care stands as a cornerstone within the operations of the San Mateo Humane Society. Its presence is not merely a service offered, but a critical foundation upon which the organization’s mission of animal welfare is built. Without comprehensive veterinary attention, the Society’s ability to rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome animals would be significantly compromised. Each animal that enters their care, whether a stray found injured or an owner surrender due to unforeseen circumstances, undergoes a thorough medical assessment. This initial evaluation dictates the course of treatment, ranging from routine vaccinations to complex surgeries. The story of Hope, a senior dog brought in with a severe case of heartworm, exemplifies this. Without immediate and ongoing veterinary intervention provided by the organization, Hope’s chances of survival would have been slim.
Beyond emergency and critical care, the veterinary services also encompass preventative measures, vital for maintaining the overall health and well-being of the shelter population. This includes regular parasite control, dental care, and nutritional support, tailored to the specific needs of each animal. Adoption services benefit immensely from this proactive approach. Animals presented to potential adopters are not only vaccinated and microchipped, but also thoroughly checked for any underlying health conditions, ensuring a smooth transition to their new homes. Consider the case of a litter of kittens rescued from a hoarding situation. Early veterinary intervention identified and treated a highly contagious upper respiratory infection, preventing it from spreading to the rest of the shelter population and ensuring the kittens were healthy and ready for adoption.
The integration of veterinary care within the organization allows for a holistic approach to animal welfare. From the moment an animal arrives, its medical needs are addressed with compassion and expertise. This not only improves the individual animal’s quality of life but also enhances the Society’s reputation as a trusted resource in the community. The veterinary team’s dedication extends beyond the shelter walls, as they often provide guidance and support to adopters, ensuring they are well-equipped to care for their new companions. Ultimately, the robust veterinary program at the San Mateo Humane Society is not just about treating illness; it’s about fostering a culture of compassion and responsible pet ownership, strengthening the bond between humans and animals and enriching the lives of both.
4. Community Outreach
The San Mateo Humane Society’s impact extends far beyond its shelter walls through robust community outreach programs. These initiatives serve as vital bridges, connecting the organization with the wider community, fostering empathy, and promoting responsible pet ownership, ultimately contributing to a more humane society.
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Educational Programs for Schools
The Society recognizes the importance of instilling compassion in young minds. Through interactive presentations, shelter tours, and animal-assisted activities, children learn about animal welfare, responsible pet care, and the importance of kindness. One can recall witnessing a group of elementary school students visiting the shelter, their eyes widening as they learned about the needs of different animals, their voices softening as they interacted with gentle therapy dogs. These early exposures shape future generations of animal advocates.
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Low-Cost Vaccination Clinics
Access to affordable veterinary care is a significant barrier for many pet owners. The Society addresses this issue by hosting low-cost vaccination clinics in underserved communities. These clinics not only protect pets from preventable diseases but also provide an opportunity for pet owners to connect with resources and learn about responsible pet ownership practices. One instance was when a single mother struggling to make ends meet tearfully thanked the staff for providing her beloved cat with a life-saving vaccination, ensuring they could stay together.
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Partnerships with Local Organizations
Collaboration is key to expanding the reach of community outreach efforts. The Society partners with local schools, community centers, and social service agencies to deliver its programs to a wider audience. These partnerships allow them to tap into existing networks and resources, maximizing their impact. A community center was able to host a pet food drive, thanks to the organization. The food drive helped pet owners in need feed their pets.
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Community Events and Awareness Campaigns
The Society actively participates in local events, such as farmers’ markets and festivals, to raise awareness about its mission and services. These events provide an opportunity to engage with the community, answer questions, and promote adoption. One witness at a community fair recalls a family stopping by the Society’s booth, learning about the adoptable animals, and ultimately deciding to open their home to a senior dog in need. These seemingly small interactions can have a profound impact on individual animals and the community as a whole.
Through these multifaceted community outreach efforts, the San Mateo Humane Society cultivates a culture of compassion, education, and responsible pet ownership. By reaching beyond its shelter walls, the organization strengthens the human-animal bond, improves the lives of countless animals, and builds a more humane community for all. The echoes of these outreach programs resonate throughout the county, fostering a legacy of compassion and responsible stewardship.
5. Volunteer Programs
Within the framework of the San Mateo Humane Society, volunteer programs stand as essential pillars. These initiatives are not mere add-ons, but the very sinews that support daily operations, extending the reach and impact of the organization far beyond its paid staff. The dedication of volunteers permeates every aspect of animal care, community engagement, and administrative support, forming the backbone of this non-profit’s enduring success.
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Animal Care Assistants
The role of Animal Care Assistants is foundational. These volunteers provide hands-on care to the animals, ensuring their basic needs are met with compassion and diligence. Tasks range from feeding and cleaning enclosures to providing exercise and socialization. There was once a young woman, recently retired, who sought purpose after a long career. She dedicated her time to comforting shy cats, gradually earning their trust and preparing them for adoption. Without her patient care, these animals might have remained withdrawn and unadoptable. These stories, replicated countless times, illustrate the impact of dedicated volunteers on the lives of individual animals.
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Adoption Counselors
Adoption Counselors play a critical role in matching animals with their forever homes. They guide prospective adopters through the process, assessing their suitability and offering advice on pet care. A retired teacher, possessing an innate ability to connect with people, volunteered as an adoption counselor. She had a knack for asking the right questions, uncovering the nuances of each family’s lifestyle and matching them with animals that perfectly suited their needs. Her efforts resulted in countless successful adoptions, strengthening the bonds between humans and animals throughout the community.
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Community Outreach Ambassadors
Community Outreach Ambassadors extend the Society’s reach into the broader community, representing the organization at events, educating the public about responsible pet ownership, and raising awareness about the services provided. A college student, passionate about animal welfare, volunteered to represent the Humane Society at local farmers’ markets. Armed with brochures and a friendly demeanor, she engaged with passersby, sparking conversations about adoption, spay/neuter programs, and the importance of supporting animal welfare. Her efforts not only increased awareness but also inspired others to get involved, amplifying the Society’s impact.
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Administrative Support Staff
While direct animal contact is often the most visible aspect of volunteering, administrative support is equally crucial. Volunteers assist with clerical tasks, data entry, and event planning, freeing up paid staff to focus on core responsibilities. A skilled accountant, seeking to give back to the community, volunteered her time to manage the Society’s finances. Her expertise ensured that donations were properly allocated and that the organization operated with fiscal responsibility, allowing it to maximize its impact on animal welfare. This behind-the-scenes support is essential for the smooth functioning of the entire organization.
The San Mateo Humane Society’s volunteer programs are more than just a source of free labor. They represent a powerful force for good, driven by the passion and commitment of individuals who share a common goal: to improve the lives of animals in need. These programs not only provide essential support to the organization but also create a sense of community and purpose for the volunteers themselves. The Society’s success is inextricably linked to the dedication of its volunteers, whose contributions are a testament to the power of human compassion.
6. Donations Accepted
The San Mateo Humane Society operates on a foundation of compassion, a sentiment made tangible through monetary and in-kind assistance. Each contribution, regardless of size, directly fuels the organization’s capacity to rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome animals. Without this consistent influx of support, the Society’s ability to provide essential services would be severely hampered. One recalls the story of a stray kitten found severely injured; its survival depended entirely on immediate veterinary intervention, funded in part by individual donations. This single instance underscores the profound cause-and-effect relationship between charitable giving and animal welfare. Donations bridge the gap between aspiration and reality.
The importance of financial contributions extends beyond immediate crisis management. Consistent donations enable the Society to invest in long-term programs, such as preventative veterinary care, community education initiatives, and facility improvements. A local business, recognizing the Society’s vital role, established a monthly giving program. This sustained commitment provided a predictable revenue stream, allowing the organization to expand its community outreach efforts and offer low-cost vaccination clinics, thereby preventing illness and promoting responsible pet ownership. Such examples illustrate the practical significance of understanding that consistent financial support fosters sustainable growth and extends the Society’s positive impact.
Acceptance of donations, therefore, is not merely a procedural formality; it represents a lifeline for vulnerable animals and a cornerstone of the San Mateo Humane Society’s operational capacity. The challenges of resource scarcity constantly loom, but the generosity of donors consistently provides the means to overcome these obstacles. Continued awareness of this fundamental connection remains crucial to ensuring the Society’s ability to fulfill its mission: to protect and improve the lives of animals in the community.
7. Education Initiatives
The San Mateo Humane Society views education not as an auxiliary function but as a proactive instrument for cultivating a community grounded in empathy and informed action. It serves as a preventative measure, addressing the root causes of animal neglect and abandonment by fostering a society where responsible pet ownership and animal welfare are ingrained values.
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Classroom Programs
The Society’s classroom programs extend beyond simple animal facts. These engagements, delivered by trained educators, introduce complex topics like animal sentience, the ethical considerations of pet ownership, and the impact of human choices on animal lives. There was a case of a child, once indifferent to animals, who became a passionate advocate after learning about the plight of shelter animals during a classroom visit. This transformation underscores the power of education to shape attitudes and inspire action, ensuring that future generations approach animals with respect and compassion.
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Community Workshops
Community workshops provide practical guidance to pet owners and aspiring animal advocates. These sessions cover topics ranging from basic pet care to recognizing signs of animal abuse and neglect. A local resident, attending a workshop on dog training, learned humane and effective techniques, resolving behavioral issues that had previously strained her relationship with her dog. This demonstrates how education empowers individuals to become better caregivers, strengthening the bond between humans and animals and reducing the likelihood of abandonment or mistreatment.
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Public Awareness Campaigns
Public awareness campaigns, utilizing a variety of media channels, aim to disseminate crucial information about animal welfare issues. These campaigns address topics such as the importance of spaying and neutering, the dangers of leaving animals in hot cars, and the benefits of adopting shelter animals. One campaign highlighted the overpopulation crisis, leading to a significant increase in adoptions and a decrease in the number of animals euthanized due to lack of space. This illustrates how targeted messaging, fueled by educational initiatives, can drive meaningful change and save lives.
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Training Programs for Volunteers and Staff
The Society recognizes that education must extend beyond the general public, encompassing its own volunteers and staff. Comprehensive training programs equip these individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to provide the best possible care to the animals under their charge. This training includes instruction on animal behavior, handling techniques, and recognizing signs of illness or distress. A new volunteer, after completing a training program, was able to identify a subtle sign of illness in a shelter cat, leading to early veterinary intervention and preventing a serious health crisis. This demonstrates how continuous learning enhances the quality of care and promotes a culture of excellence within the organization.
These facets highlight the significance of educational outreach as a fundamental component of its mission. Through targeted programming and sustained engagement, the San Mateo Humane Society cultivates a community that values animal welfare, promotes responsible pet ownership, and actively works to create a more humane world for all creatures.
8. Lost Pets
The fear is primal: a gate left unlatched, a leash slipped, a window ajar. Then, the sinking realization: a beloved companion is gone. The connection to the animal welfare organization becomes immediately clear at such times. It represents not just a place of last resort, but a crucial hub in the frantic search. Each year, countless families experience this, their hope dwindling with each passing hour. The organization recognizes this urgency, operating as a central repository for lost and found animals, a vital resource in a chaotic situation. The case of Luna, a golden retriever who bolted during a thunderstorm, exemplifies this critical function. After days of fruitless searching, her owners contacted the local organization. A volunteer had already brought Luna to the shelter, her microchip quickly reuniting the dog with her relieved family. Without this central point of contact, Luna’s story might have had a different, far less happy ending.
The “Lost Pets” component is not merely a reactive service, but a proactive effort to minimize the duration and impact of such separations. The organization employs a range of strategies, from maintaining a comprehensive online database of lost and found animals to promoting the importance of microchipping. It actively partners with local veterinary clinics and animal control agencies, creating a network designed to quickly identify and return lost animals to their owners. Additionally, public awareness campaigns underscore the importance of responsible pet ownership, emphasizing preventive measures such as secure fencing and proper identification. There was an incident several years ago involving a cat. The organization helped the cat owner find it after 3 months. This success underscores the critical role it plays in bridging the gap between lost animals and their anxious families.
The challenge remains significant despite those measures. Animals can travel considerable distances, crossing jurisdictional boundaries and complicating search efforts. Furthermore, not all lost pets are microchipped or wearing identification tags, increasing the difficulty of reunification. However, the existence of the organization provides a beacon of hope, a dedicated resource that understands the profound bond between humans and animals. It serves not just as a shelter for the lost but as a testament to the unwavering commitment to animal welfare within the San Mateo community. Its role in the “Lost Pets” cycle highlights its indispensable place within the fabric of the organizations broader mission, demonstrating a practical commitment to supporting both animals and their human companions during times of crisis.
Frequently Asked Questions
Navigating the world of animal welfare can raise numerous questions. Here, we address some of the most common inquiries directed towards the San Mateo Humane Society, offering clarity and insight into its operations and principles.
Question 1: How does the organization determine if an animal is suitable for adoption?
The suitability of an animal for adoption is not determined lightly. Each animal undergoes a comprehensive evaluation, including health assessments and behavioral observations. Staff and volunteers dedicate time to understanding an animal’s temperament, history (if known), and specific needs. Consider the case of a timid rescue dog. Through careful observation, it was discovered that the dog was highly sensitive to loud noises. The organization then sought a quiet home, ensuring a successful placement. This process underscores the commitment to placing animals in environments where they can thrive.
Question 2: What happens to animals that are not adopted?
The San Mateo Humane Society is committed to providing care for animals in their shelter for as long as it takes to find the correct home. Animals with chronic medical conditions or difficult temperaments are included. Euthanasia is reserved for those cases with no other option.
Question 3: How can the community verify the responsible use of donated funds?
Transparency is paramount. The San Mateo Humane Society provides access to its financial statements and annual reports, detailing how donated funds are allocated. These documents are publicly available, allowing the community to scrutinize the organization’s financial practices. Furthermore, the organization undergoes regular audits to ensure accountability. This open-book policy reflects a commitment to responsible stewardship of donated resources.
Question 4: What steps should be taken if a pet is lost in San Mateo County?
Immediate action is crucial. The first step is to contact the San Mateo Humane Society, providing a detailed description of the lost pet and its identifying characteristics. The organization maintains a database of lost and found animals, facilitating potential matches. Additionally, reaching out to local veterinary clinics and animal control agencies is essential. Consider the story of a cat who was missing for weeks. The owner posted fliers and contacted the Humane Society. They were eventually reunited with their cat. Swift action and broad communication significantly increase the chances of a successful reunion.
Question 5: Does the San Mateo Humane Society offer assistance with wildlife issues?
While primarily focused on domestic animals, the San Mateo Humane Society recognizes the interconnectedness of animal welfare. It works closely with local wildlife rehabilitation centers, providing referrals and support for injured or orphaned wildlife. Though not directly equipped to handle wildlife rescues, the organization serves as a valuable resource, connecting concerned citizens with the appropriate experts. This collaborative approach reflects a holistic commitment to animal welfare within the entire ecosystem.
Question 6: What measures are in place to ensure the safety and well-being of volunteers?
Volunteer safety is a top priority. The San Mateo Humane Society provides comprehensive training to all volunteers, covering animal handling techniques, safety protocols, and emergency procedures. Volunteers are carefully matched with tasks that align with their skills and comfort levels. Strict adherence to safety guidelines is enforced, and support is readily available. This commitment to safety creates a secure and rewarding environment for volunteers, ensuring their well-being while they contribute to the organization’s mission.
The San Mateo Humane Society strives to provide reliable answers to common questions, fostering understanding and trust within the community. These insights offer a glimpse into the organization’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and, above all, the welfare of animals.
The following section will explore practical ways to support the San Mateo Humane Society’s mission.
Supporting Animal Welfare
The organization provides a variety of avenues through which individuals can make a meaningful difference in the lives of animals. These methods aren’t abstract ideals; they are practical steps. The collective action contributes to animal welfare.
Tip 1: Embrace Adoption: The shelters house creatures who deserve love. Providing a safe, permanent home does not only improve quality of life for an animal but frees resources for more animals in need. There was a family who adopted a 10-year old dog with a terminal illness. This act of kindness speaks volumes, and the family found immense joy and companionship in their short time together.
Tip 2: Volunteer Time: Volunteer work contributes substantially to the running of the organization. Assistants provide enrichment for a wide range of animals. Consider donating your time if able.
Tip 3: Foster an Animal: Fostering provides temporary care for animals in need, whether they are recovering from illness, awaiting adoption, or simply requiring a break from the shelter environment. This support alleviates pressure on shelter resources and allows animals to thrive in a home setting. A woman started fostering cats that needed medical care. This kindness allowed countless animals to get the love they needed.
Tip 4: Donate Supplies: The organization relies on donations of essential supplies to provide adequate care for the animals. Food, blankets, cleaning supplies, and toys are always in high demand. The donation of the essentials allows the staff and volunteers to focus on other things.
Tip 5: Advocate for Responsible Pet Ownership: Educating others about responsible pet ownership is essential. Encourage friends, family, and neighbors to spay/neuter their pets, provide adequate veterinary care, and ensure their animals are properly identified. Each person can influence and transform the landscape of animal welfare.
Tip 6: Spread Awareness: Utilize social media and local community groups to share stories and facts about the organization. The more people who are aware, the better change can happen.
These steps are practical, manageable actions through which compassion translates into tangible improvements. Together, these make progress towards better animal welfare.
To learn more about the impact, continue to the concluding thoughts on the organization’s operations.
San Mateo Humane Society
This exploration has traversed the various facets of the san mateo humane society, shedding light on its pivotal role in the community. From its adoption services to its educational initiatives, the organization’s commitment to animal welfare is evident. Each element, from the shelter itself to the volunteer programs, contributes to a larger mission of compassion and responsible pet ownership. Donations, both in resources and monetary form, enable to continue their critical services.
Yet, this is not the end of the story. The ongoing need for animal welfare advocacy remains, and the san mateo humane society serves as a beacon of hope in this endeavor. The challenges persist: abandoned animals, overcrowded shelters, and the constant need for resources. The san mateo humane society is a valuable asset in continuing the welfare of the animals. There is a continued community for those who want to advocate for animals.
