Ahead of Valentine’s Day, Cupid Strikes at San Luis Obispo County Animal Services

As Valentine’s Day approaches, the warmth of love in the air is spreading to two unlikely romantics at the San Luis Obispo County Division of Animal Services. 

Like many dogs eagerly awaiting adoption, Mona Lisa and Briers arrived at the shelter hoping to be adopted and go to their permanent homes. And like many animals at the center, they had endured false starts and were waiting at their kennels, hoping to find love. 

What the pups didn’t know was that they would end up finding a partner in their quest for a permanent home.

To promote the adorable animals’ adoption, the the San Luis Obispo County Division of Animal Services staged a romance, proposal, and marriage. 

“We have a love story to share that shows love can find you even when you are feeling abandoned, lost, and lonely,” Animal Services posted on its Facebook page. 

The animal services shared a video on February 10, 2026, of Mona Lisa and Briers’ “love at first sight” as they met each other for the first time and became friends during a play date. 

In a follow-up video, the pups are seen visiting a park with staff of the San Luis Obispo County Parks & Recreation for their first date and a proposal, accompanied by a sparkling ring and lots of treats. 

“Cupid’s Arrow has struck! She said ‘yes!’” Animal Services shared in the video. 

Their love story continued as Mona Lisa and Briers dressed up in their wedding finery and went to the San Luis Obispo County Clerk-Recorder’s Office to make their relationship official. 

Their vows included the “three days, three weeks, three months” guidelines presented to the adoptive families of animals from Animal Services. 

“The guidelines provide realistic expectations for both pets and owners, supporting a smooth transition into the household and fostering a successful, long-term relationship,” Animal Services said in its Facebook post. 

Surrounded by encouraging staff of the Clerk-Recorder’s office and Animal Services, Mona Lisa and Briers vowed “to share walks, naps, and at least some of their toys” and were declared a married couple. 

After making their relationship official, the newlyweds were off on their honeymoon, with Animal Services announcing their departure via “direct flights” out of SLO County Airport.

The post hinted at jet-setting adventures for the lovable canine couple, continuing the weeklong Valentine’s storyline.

While the playful canines found a partner at the shelter, they have yet to find a loving home.

The county’s Animal Services’ facility just off Highway 1 at Kansas Avenue, next to Woods Humane Society, has several animals for adoption, Animal Services shared in its Facebook post. 

The center has cats, dogs, rabbits, and chickens, as well as stray animals that haven’t been reclaimed by their owners and were surrendered to the shelter, according to the Animal Services’ website. 

The adoption fee for cats is $85, and $162 (including licensing) for dogs, according to the Animal Services. Charges for pocket pets and small birds are $10, while exotic animals and livestock can be brought home for $130. The charge for other animals is $28.