Our Mission

The Pet Adoption Center of Orange County connects adoptable pets with loving people and the resources they need to be a family for life.

Our Vision

A community that cares so deeply for the welfare of its pets that it finds shelter euthanasia not only unnecessary, but unimaginable.

Adoption Center

» Our contemporary, home-like facility in Lake Forest, California houses small dogs approximately 30 pounds and under.
» We accept dogs from local animal control agencies, animal welfare organizations, and certain owner surrenders, thereby reducing shelter operational stress and overcrowding.
» All dogs in our care receive food, water, shelter, medical attention, and socialization from staff and volunteers in an open, stress-free environment that keeps them happy, healthy, and adoptable.
» We help ensure successful placements and reduce returns by matching dogs with highly compatible people and families.
» All dogs receive mandatory sterilization, up-to-date vaccinations, and an identification microchip.

Placement Services

We provide counseling and placement services to potential adopters, assisting them in selecting a breed or blend whose characteristics are a suitable match for their home and lifestyle, and helping them to locate an adoptable pet through our referral network.

Volunteer Program

We offer volunteer opportunities for adults and students 16-17 (with a parent volunteering, too). Volunteering can help people develop new skills, make friends, build networking connections, and give people a new perspective on life.

Community Education

To support the community, we offer public education courses taught by volunteers and advocates to encourage humane pet care and responsible pet ownership, and we support sterilization programs to reduce pet overpopulation.

Our Leadership

The post-graduate educated board of directors and executive management of The Pet Adoption Center of Orange County have more than 80 years combined business experience, and over 70 years combined animal welfare experience, along with several decades of governmental policy experience. They have extensive ability to manage a business, collaborate with the animal welfare community, serve the general public, and maneuver the ins and outs of governmental requirements and political issues.

» April Josephson, Esq., President
» Kathy Oda, Secretary/Treasurer
» Rachelle Cruz, Director

Shelter Statistics