Keeping Pets Healthy and with the People Who Love Them
For families facing hardship, keeping a beloved pet can be a challenge—but C.A.R.E.4Paws is dedicated to making sure no one has to choose between their pet’s well-being and their own.
Short for Community Awareness, Resources & Education, C.A.R.E.4Paws was founded in 2009 with a mission to reduce pet overpopulation and improve pet-family welfare on California’s Central Coast. By providing essential services to underserved communities, the nonprofit helps keep dogs and cats healthy, out of shelters, and with the people who love them.
A Lifeline for Pets and Their Families
Over 70% of U.S. households have a pet, and 95% consider them family. Yet, despite this deep bond, 20 million pets live in poverty, and 70% have never seen a vet—not due to neglect, but lack of access to affordable care.
C.A.R.E.4Paws works directly in Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties, assisting low-income, senior, disabled, and unhoused pet families with:
- Free and low-cost veterinary care through two mobile clinics
- Pet food distribution to prevent hunger
- Behavioral training to help pets stay in their homes
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Temporary foster care and boarding for families in crisis, including those experiencing homelessness or domestic violence
Each year, C.A.R.E.4Paws assists 30,000 pets. In 2024 alone, their Mobile Community Medicine & Spay/Neuter Outreach program helped 19,200 animals. Since the start of the pandemic, they have also distributed more than 5 million pet meals, ensuring pets can stay with their families where they belong.
Keeping Pets and Families Together
“For so many people, their pets are a lifeline and a source of unconditional love, loyalty, and companionship,” says Isabelle Gullö, Cofounder and Executive Director. “No one should have to choose between taking care of a four-legged family member and paying household bills, or be forced to give up a pet due to lack of housing or other traumatic life experiences. C.A.R.E.4Paws’ goal is to intervene before animals suffer or end up in shelters.”
As the need for pet care continues to rise, C.A.R.E.4Paws remains committed to supporting those who need it most. Gullö shares, “Every day, we see firsthand what happens when people lack access to the services their animals need. We are here to help bridge a critical gap, one dog and cat at a time!”
Empowering the Next Generation with Humane Education
Beyond immediate support, C.A.R.E.4Paws works to create lasting change through its Paws Up For Pets youth initiative. This program encourages compassion for animals and all living beings, empowering young people to promote kindness in their communities and speak out against neglect or abuse.
How You Can Help
The demand for accessible pet care is growing, and C.A.R.E.4Paws needs your support. Whether through donations, volunteering, or fostering pets in need, you can make a difference.
4Knines Monthly Spotlight: Honoring C.A.R.E.4Paws
At 4Knines, we believe in supporting organizations that make a real difference in the lives of pets and their people. Since our founding in 2013, we’ve been committed to giving back, and we’re honored to feature C.A.R.E.4Paws in our Monthly Spotlight. Their dedication to keeping pets safe, healthy, and with the families who love them is truly inspiring.
4Knines is proud to support their mission, and we encourage our community to do the same!
