I decided I wanted a puppy, and took my husband to the Helen Woodward Center to see if he would fall in love with any of the pups there. There was a bit of a wait, but by the time we were able to see the pups they were very health conscious and knew quite a bit about them. They asked us a lot of questions about our lifestyle, etc. I definitely got the feeling the staff was there to make sure that every animal adopted found its forever family. The prices were high for adoption fees, but there are a lot of programs there and they seemed to have a a selection process down for the animals they took in. When they really went above and beyond is when our newly adopted puppy was diagnosed with Parvo. I had never heard of it before, and didn't know what to do or how to go about getting my puppy healthy again. They called to check on each member of her litter, and helped me find a ver that could give her the care she needed. She pulled through in just 48 hours, which is a little miracle. Much of that had to do with all of us working together, acting fast and getting her the care she needed. I recommend everyone to the Helen Woodward Center, and I now I stop new puppy owners so they know about the importance of guarding their puppy against parvo!

I had a awful experience at Helen Woodward Animal Center and I would like to inform the public. I am a Vet Assistant graduate from the Mira Costa College Vet Assistant Program. I completed the required internship, I received my Veterinary Assistant Certificate and I was seeking more professional training at highly regarded Veterinary Hospital. I contacted Helen Woodward Animal Center for the purpose of completing a second internship. I communicated with the volunteer coordinator for a month before I was invited to a interview. I completed an application and I had to prove that I had health and liability insurance before the interview, both were confirmed. The first interview day and time were selected by the vet that I would have work with, Dr. Stephanie Oba. I arrived at the date and time she chose and she was not there. The secretary told me that Dr. Oba was not scheduled to be in that day, so she purposely stood me up, and the secretary rescheduled the interview for a day/time that she knew Dr. Oba would be there. This hospital is very far from my home, so her standing me up was a big inconvenience. I arrived the second day and I was told that Dr. Oba just went on her lunch break and that I should wait for twenty minutes and she will return. I waited for twenty minutes in my car and then I went into the center. One of the receptionist went back to Dr. Oba’s office to tell her that I was there, the secretary returned and told me, “Dr. Oba said that she has too many intakes and that you should call her if you have any questions.” I left feeling upset and insulted. The only thing that separates me from any of the other vet assistants or interns there is that I am a Black female and they are not. I exceeded the requirements for that internship and Dr. Stephanie Oba would not even come out herself and tell me that she would not except me there. She had her secretary turn me away at the door. I received a e-mail from the volunteer coordinator a few weeks later saying that Dr. Stephanie Oba didn’t think that I would be a good fit there. I encourage those who support equal rights and equal treatment and opportunities for all races not to support Helen Woodward Animal Center or Dr. Stephanie Oba. I hope that you do not ever have to endure the same racist treatment. Have a blessed day and thank you for your attention. A Discriminated Against Mira Costa College Student

Charlene and I had the most amazing experience at Helen Woodward today. The staff is so friendly and caring, and wanted to help us find the perfect dog that fit with our family. We had about 6 or so puppies on our list to see. As soon as we saw Harold it was an instant love connection. My family and I fell in love! He rolled over onto his back right when we walked up to see him! We couldn't be more happy with our new addition to our family. Harold! We'd like to personally thank Brittney & Adele for giving amazing service and going above and beyond to ensure all our needs were met as well as Harold's needs!

A true center-of-influence in the no-kill shelter world. We adopted Xander and can tell he had been abused. . . long road to recovery, but he is such a lover! I know it isn't cheap providing all the services they provide which is why we are so committed to spreading the word about fully funding (can you ever do that!?) their charitable efforts throughout the community. Take the time to support this amazing organization!

I went to look for a new addition to our family and found the perfect little pup. The staff were curteous and helpful, I asked A LOT of questions and they were more than helpful and willing to sit and answer them all. The only reason I gave it a 4 instead of a 5 is that I found it a little pricey for the animals - I think they would find happy homes if they still charged a fee but cut the price in about half! :) Otherwise, very satisfied with our experience here.