Thank you, Charleston Animal Society for treating hundreds of strays who have heartworm so we can adopt them. Saving lives is what you do.
Charleston Animal Society is an incredible organization. They come into schools to spread information about adoptions, humane treatment of animals, and taking care of pets. The staff are always happy to help, and they take such good care of each animal that comes into their care. We love CAS!
I initially got involved with the Society to help facilitate adoptions with a "Pet of the Week" program. I had no idea what I was about to learn.
The Society's facilities are second-to-none, the animals are loved and cared for in a comfortable and safe environment. All of their needs, even surgical needs, can be met on site.
But as amazing as the above was to see up close and firsthand, it was the Society's people that impressed me the most. The dedication shown by the staff, their true unbridled joy in helping every single animal they possibly can, is truly remarkable.
The Society, its people, and its facilities, emanate a genuine love for those animals in need. It is powerful, and the 24/7 lifesaving is the proof in the pudding.
The entire community is lucky to have such an outstanding nonprofit doing such amazing work for the most vulnerable of animals.
The Charleston animal Society does amazing work. In addition to getting so many animals adopted, they do important work in the community in education, particularly of kids and neutering of animals throughout Charleston county. The staff there is great and The organization seems too closely watch their donut dollars. I feel like I get great bang for the buck as a donor. Also, as a donor, they do a great job of sharing information and ways you can engage with their work.
The Charleston Animal Society has truly given animals the help, love, support, and a voice that they deserve.
I have been a volunteer with Charleston Animal Society for many years. The opportunities to contribute vary and they make it easy to serve. The staff truly care about all the animals. I support their mission with my time and money.
I have adopted 3 animals from CAS and the staff there makes the entire adoption process a wonderful experience. I am happy to support this organization and am extremely impressed with the work that they do not only locally but across the nation!
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Charleston is so fortunate to have CAS!! I have adopted several animals from them, and they have always been most helpful and accommodating in helping me find the perfect furry friend. Their entire staff from the volunteers all the way to the CEO are friendly, outgoing, helpful, and in touch with the communities’ needs. I will continue to support this organization in the future.
the amazing staff helped us find our little fur baby back in October! I would 100% go back in the near future to go get another! Sally Jade was almost 6 months old when we got her and her birthday is this month!
Charleston Animal Society is an outstanding organization! I have volunteered at several of their events and am always amazed at the impact they have locally and across the nation.
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CAS is a wonderful organization that serves the surrounding area with the most critical needs for our special animals. This organization sets an example to all of what an animal organization should do!!
The Charleston Animal Society is such a fantastic nonprofit organization! Everyone who works there has such love and passion for saving and helping animals! The events they hold and all the work they do is amazing! Best shelter in Charleston!
Adopting a cat from Charleston Animal Society was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made! From the moment I walked in, the staff was incredibly kind and dedicated to finding the perfect match for me. They took the time to learn about my lifestyle and helped me choose a cat that fit right in.
The process was smooth and stress-free, and I was impressed by how well the cats were cared for. My new furry friend, Luna, has brought so much joy and love into my home! It feels amazing knowing I gave a deserving cat a second chance at a happy life.
If you're thinking about adopting, I highly recommend visiting the Charleston Animal Society. Not only will you find a loving companion, but you'll also be supporting an organization that does incredible work for animals in need. Thank you to the Charleston Animal Society for helping me find my perfect feline friend!
We went in shortly before Christmas in 2007 to hopefully adopt a cat or kitten because we needed some feline love back into our home. Here we met Chuck, a small orange kitten who had been fostered by a lovely family since he was a couple of weeks old. He came home with us that day and became the center of my daughter’s universe. We lost Chuck a few years ago but he lives in our hearts and we are all the better for having him love us as much as we loved him.
Charleston Animal Society is a source of hope for animals in need, providing comprehensive care and resources. Their facilities are clean and welcoming, staffed by compassionate individuals dedicated to animal welfare. The adoption process is thorough, ensuring animals find loving, permanent homes. I adopted two amazing kittens from the society over the past few years. They offer a wide range of services, from veterinary care to community outreach programs. I had my two dogs neutered there at a fraction of the price of a normal vet, with the same great quality of care. The society's commitment to ending animal cruelty is evident in their advocacy and education efforts. Supporting them directly impacts the lives of countless animals in the Lowcountry.
We love you, Mrs Kaye! Thank you and everyone else at Charleston Animal Society SO much for all y’all do. We need more people like y’all in this world. You are all so very appreciated!
Everyone here is so friendly and truly cares about all of their animals! They helped us find our fur baby that has fit perfectly into our family. We’ll be forever grateful for such a wonderful group of people.
Since 2019, several of my family have adopted animals from Charleston Animal Society.
We have been very happy with the Adoption staff as well as everyone who cares for the animals. The pets in our family are happy and healthy and we know it is because they got a great start with caring people at Charleston Animal Society. So grateful for all their programs that help to bring animals and families together.
Great support with our cat, Tiger. He is a super healthy cat and a joy in our lives.
Staff was wonderful during the adoption and answered questions when I called back a few days after, too.
After losing Bebe (a 12 yr old female Pit/Catahoula), my 3 yr old Speck was lethargic and listless. We both missed her.
I decided to adopt another dog from Charleston Animal Society, where I picked up Speck 2 yrs ago. I reviewed available female dogs on their website, read the bios, looked at pics, and chose one to meet. She was located at the CAS facility in Ravenel, so I loaded up Speck to meet her as well.
It was a great decision!
Enter Nova … SUPER NOVA
She is so full of energy and affection that Speck has been re-energized and I have a huge smile on my face.
Many thanks to CAS and especially the staff in Ravenel. Christine was prompt with email replies, and along with MariClaire and Taylor, they answered my questions and made recommendations for a smooth transition.
If you’re thinking about adopting an animal, I HIGHLY RECOMMEND Charleston Animal Society!”
Wonderful facility that really cares about their animals. They provide lots of enrichment and exercise time while they wait to get adopted. It is also extremely clean.
I feel blessed to volunteer and donate to support the Charleston Animal Society. All of the employees and volunteers are spectacular…skilled, hard-working and empathetic in their care and support of the animals. The Charleston Animal Society also “gets it” when it comes to ending animal cruelty and over-population. They look at these problems holistically and understand that complex problems need complex solutions. As a result, they tackle these challenges holistically…taking in abandoned/surrendered animals and finding them homes, spaying and neutering countless animals to reduce over-population, providing efforts to save animals with behavioral issues which would otherwise be considered unadoptable and educating the next generation of animal owners (children) to be responsible pet owners…teaching empathy, compassion and love for animals. I could go on and on…but I’ll stop here. There is no better organization to support whether it is with your time or dollars. Simply the best!
I am a volunteer at the shelter. I am continually impressed by the hard work, attention and dedication of the staff. The operation there is extremely well-run and well-organized, with the animals’ well-being top of mind. There is volunteer training and numerous volunteer opportunities, and I am so happy to help out and feel like I’m making a difference.
I've been volunteering for Charleston Animal Society for the last four years. It is such an incredible and rewarding place to spend my time giving back. It's not just the pups that keep me coming back, it's the passion of the staff and administration that make me want to volunteer with this organization. Every single person.. from the vet techs, to the veterinarians, to the adoption coordinators, to the maintenance crew, to the CEO… Everyone gives 100% and is all in for ensuring the tens of thousands of animals that come through Charleston Animal Society are cared for, as if they were one of their own.
The Charleston Animal Society has been an important organization in my life for years now. My dog Frank was an ambassadog with the Humane Education Department for years. The joy he had going to schools was only topped by the joy the children had at seeing his silly antics. After losing my Frank last year, I knew that I would be looking to CAS to fill the hole in my heart. Recently, the wonderful ladies at the Humane Education Department introduced me to a sweet orange cat - telling me I needed to come meet him ASAP. Well, I fell in love, and adopted Fitzpatrick the cat. He is purrrrfect. First, the entire adoption process was so easy and very clear - kuddos to the adoption team. Second, I strongly feel the work that the Humane Education Department at CAS is doing in this community is extremely important and meaningful, in the schools and with their programs at the shelter. I will always be thankful to CAS for not only the work they do for my community, but for uniting me with my wonderful cat!
I have served on the Board of CAS since 2016. Currently serving as Board Chair and serving on many of the organization’s committees.
Having worked with CAS for many years prior to joining the Board, I have been incredibly impressed by the leadership and accomplishments over these many years.
It achieved “no -kill” status in record time and is working to achieve the same status for the entire state. It has become the “go-to” organization in the southeast region for evacuating and rescuing animals in conjunction with the national organizations. It has set the example for outreach programs and education programs.
The leadership, staff and Board work closely together to constantly find ways to serve our community and beyond by saving the lives of countless animals.
I am honored to volunteer and serve this incredible organization.
Laurel Greer
I have served on the board as Treasurer, Executive Committee member, and Vice Chair of the board. In the years I have worked with the leadership, staff, and volunteers of CAS I have continued to be impressed by their professionalism, long-term thinking, and steadfast commitment not only to the Charleston community but the state of South Carolina and to efforts to build a No Kill Community nationwide. This organization is well-run, staffed with impressive and experienced leaders, and seen as a beacon within the Charleston community. I am proud to be a part of the Charleston Animal Society.
Charleston Animal Society is a beautifully run organization dedicated to helping animals. It is a wonderful
Place to volunteer if you love animals. It’s clean and well organized. They rescue abandoned or lost pets, get them medicle help and find new loving homes.
I got both of my cats from Charleston Animal Society. They are amazing! My first cat was 4 years old and abandoned by her family and she was exactly the cat we were looking for. Less than a year later we returned for a second cat and again they helped us find a little guy we couldn't imagine being without now! My mom also got her puppy from there and when she found out 6 months later that she had heartworms, Charleston Animal Society did everything to treat her and get her back to health. Without then my mom would've never been able to afford the treatment for her fur baby. I always tell anyone looking for a pet to go there and adopt, I cannot say enough great things about them!!
We adopted our girl, Bessie, from Charleston Animal Society almost a year ago. The staff could NOT have been more kind, helpful, and supportive! They checked in with us after the adoption to make sure things were going smoothly, and I still communicate with them, sharing pictures of Bessie "living her best life"!
We are forever grateful to the entire staff for their help, guidance, and vision to help these amazing creatures find loving homes.
So proud to be associated with Charleston Animal Society as a volunteer and an adopter. I've volunteered weekly for the last 8 years and intermittently for about 3 or 4 years prior to that. They truly lead the way in SC animal welfare and I am so grateful for all they do.
Charleston Animal Society was instrumental in the search for our missing dog after he was thrown into the Ashley River in a boating accident. Our Rocky was spotted 2 days later and reunited with our family. Forever grateful to this beautiful organization and protector of animals ❤️
I am an adopter from the Charleston animal society and got my sweet lil baby pup from a puppy mill bust they had gone through. I couldn’t recommend and say how amazing this facility is!
My time with CAS has been incredibly rewarding. I am so proud to be involved with an organization where everyone from staff to board members to volunteers work so diligently to better the lives of those who can not help themselves..
Charleston Animal Society has always been a well respected and ground breaking non-profit in the community. Knowing that they service not just Charleston, but other counties in SC gives me a sense of relief knowing that animals in our state have advocates watching out for them. I have happily supported fundraisers and events knowing that Charleston Animal Society use these resources to better the lives of animals in need. Highly recommend!
They're simply the best. And the CAS isn't just a GREAT nonprofit, they're the GREATEST, and our community is richer because of them. Take one walk through the campus and you'll see for yourself.
Our neighborhood has benefited so much from the feral cat program at Charleston Animal society! Just in the past year we’ve been able to have over 70 cats fixed and vaccinated at no cost to us which is huge. Offering that service to the entire county is astounding, and so many people are able to preserve our wild life and prevent overpopulation that you cannot even put into words the ripple effect they’re having. It’s such a blessing to have this program available and I know so many people rely on it. The staff is also just super amazing.
I adopted my quirky little bean domino from the Charleston animal society after fostering her from a 2021 puppy mill bust.
We adopted from Charleston Animal society a few months ago. We were fortunate enough to be the 100th adoption sponsored by Jeff Cook Real Estate. That’s enabled us to put the cost toward other care and treats for our guy! When I saw a picture of this bearded fella I knew he was for us. We weren’t sure what he was - thought he had some Irish wolfhound in him. Turns out he’s a labradoodle!!! He is my second adoption from CAS and has fit in wonderfully with our family! Forever grateful for this amazing charity, rescue and educator!
What an organization. I had no idea they take in so many kinds of animals! Not just cats and dogs. All homeless animals find help with the Charleston Animal Society. Best organization ever!
Amazing charity which does such valuable work in Charleston county and throughout the state of South Carolina. They rescued a 1.5 pound kitten with a broken leg who was found in the road. They helped her recover and then I was able to adopt and name her Jessie. Since then I volunteer in the shelter and foster kittens in my own home. I gladly support this charity and am so thankful to have my Jessie.
Charleston Animal Society is the most amazing gift ever provided to me. I I Tia.y got involved as a volunteer to help animals. Little did I know how much that decision would do for me. For years, that volunteer work every Monday and Wednesday morning in the kitten nursery fed my soul. It also introduced me to my furbabies. When life threw me a lot of curve balls I emailed the foster coordinators and said please, I need foster kittens. I’m sure they were grateful for another foster home. What they don’t know is that those foster kittens have gotten me through the hardest three years of my life. I know I help save kittens by fostering, but honestly, those kittens have saved me.
I've been fostering kittens and their moms for years now. this has allowed me to get my "kitten fix". The kittens get a good knowledge of humans and the sounds of a house. then get adopted through CAS. The ability to supply me with food and litter makes fostering easy.
I am so glad that everyone in the fostering department has been a real joy to work with. B Lynne B.
This holiday season I was fortunate enough to participate in the Holiday foster program for Charleston Animal Society. It was very rewarding and fun. The puppy we foster had a few challenges that we work through with the help and support of the wonderful, professional staff at CAS.
If you have ever though about volunteering or fostering- just do it! You will smile and know that you’re made a difference in a sweet animal’s life on their journey to find their forever home. VERY REWARDING!
I had fostered kittens for CAS for a couple of years and was always able to return the babies when it was time for adoption. That was until September 2020. We fostered Freddie for a month starting in August. He was an adorable fluffy and feisty kitten. When he was 8 weeks old and weighed two pounds, he was scheduled for surgery to be neutered and then he would go on the adoption floor. We had lost one of our adult cats to illness during that time and my husband was attached to Freddie. So we have what is known as a foster fail naned Freddie Fluffybutt!
We adopted our dog, Timber, last year from the Charleston Animal Society (CAS). He was found alone on the side of the road at only 3 weeks old. CAS took him in and fostered him until he was ready for adoption.
He became sick the day after we brought him home. They were amazing and instantly brought him into their clinic and evaluated him, gave him fluids, and medicine to help him recover. We noticed when he was a little older that he had some fear anxiety and aggression. I called and they recommended a wonderful behaviorist/trainer that came to our home to evaluate him. We were able to work with her to help him overcome his fears and become a great family dog.
They are a wonderful part of our community and truly care for the animals.
I started volunteering with Charleston Animal Society over 10 years ago when I traveled to CHS on vacations. When we moved here in 2016, I began weekly volunteer visits photographing adoptables and my support has included other activities such as donating, advocacy, fundraising and even adopting! The staff at CAS members are spectacularly committed and the shelter is by far the most progressive in the area. It is a pleasure to support them and to feel I am a small part of their lifesaving mission. I will continue to work with them as long as they'll have me and would encourage everyone to find a way to support them somehow!
I have lived in Charleston for many years and have watched Charleston Animal Society grow and evolve. Their goal for 2024 is no kill. I have volunteered, fostered and donated. They are appreciative of the help they receive from the community. The staff is the tops ♥️. I couldn’t ask for a better place to spend my time and money. . The pictures are just two of my cats I have adopted. Abby and Little Man
Charleston Animal Society is an incredible organization that endlessly fights to save animals! Adopting from them lead to fostering, which has allowed me to see on a deeper level how much they do for every single animal! They are truly amazing!
Having been involved with animal welfare for many years, in Ct and Denver, Colorado, I have been fortunate to have worked with amazing organizations. I have also learned a lot about what makes one a good versus an excellent one.
Moving to Charleston in 2014, I was fortunate to have been directed to Charleston Animal Society as the premier group in animal organizations.
I started volunteering in various areas of CAS, education, anti-cruelty, foster and adoption.
I have worked alongside the staff, other volunteers and the Board of Directors, and I soon realized this group of individuals is not only unique, but way, way above in integrity, compassion, imagination, talent, and ambition. You do not say to this group, no you cannot possibly accomplish that, how can you reach that goal? Believe me, CAS will do what it says, stand for the welfare of the animals and the community, and continue until the goal is reached.
And that is time and time again.
I have never worked with more creative, hard working, passionate, people in my life. The CEO, the staff, the Board and volunteers are all a part of this . They all shine and if you decide to put your time and or money into Charleston Animal Society, you will understand how I feel inspired every day by this group of individuals.
CAS has been a great source of reference for my husband and I as owners of dogs and cats. I enjoy the articles posted in Carolina Tails and appreciate the helpful information.
The CAS is a wonderful organization and has helped introduce our state to the No Kill initiative.
I have referred several friends from the upstate to CAS and they have been very pleased.
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Charleston Animal Society is a great nonprofit organization! The caring and compassion they show for animals goes above and beyond expectations! They strive everyday to give animals the best possible care and match them with their forever homes! The state of South Carolina is blessed to have such a wonderful organization caring and fighting for our animals!
Charleston Animal Society is a wonderful organization that truly cares about animals of all sizes and species. CAS is the front leader in animal protection. They educate and involve the community in all aspects of animal welfare. I feel blessed to know some of their employees who go above and beyond the call of duty to do what is right for animals and I feel lucky to have had an opportunity to volunteer for them on several occasions. I will always support this wonderful organization!
We got Ranger back in 2013 and he brought so much joy to our family. We fostered him at first, due to heartworm issues, but we knew he was never going back. He instantly became a part of the family. He was in the 2014 Fireman's Calendar, Mr. May, and in a commercial for Clear the Shelter. He was a special dog. The Charleston Animal Society is such a great group of individuals, who care about animals, and the families they get adopted into. They take in animals from all over, and they help the other shelters in their area, who don't get as much support from their counties. Sadly he passed Christmas Day this past year, but we know where to go when we are ready for another family member. They are the best at what they do.
Always an amazing staff! But last week they went above and beyond. I had to being in my kitty for emergency surgery. The staff was so helpful and caring. Their kindness put kitty and myself right to ease.
In August, 2006, Kay Hyman asked me to Foster a small dog who needed someone to take care of her. That lasted 5 minutes and 15.5 years later, Gracie Leigh is still my baby Princess.
Being the former owner of a dog boarding, day care and grooming salon, I have worked with the Charleston Animal Society numerous times over the years. They definitely care about animals as they would a child.
I recommend them for anyone who wants to rescue an animal or needs help with a stray dog, etc.
Kay is definitely dedicated to CAS, always on the radio or at events for the animals. They are tops!!
When we had a house fire we lost not only our house and everything in it but our beloved dog Bronaugh. Our family was devastated that we had lost our sweet bgirl in the fire. It was a tough time on us all.
A year had passed and our friend Kay Hyman reached out to us about a puppy that recently came in that was abandoned at an apartment eviction. She instantly thought of us and asked if we might be ready for a new member of our family. Enough time had passed and our family was definitely ready . The next day my daughter and I went to meet her and instantly fell in love with her. We arranged to adopt her and picked her up a few days later. She has been a sweet part of our family ever since.
Charleston Animal Society is a great organization dedicated to helping all animals find a loving home they deserve. They truly care about the animals and the people they place together. The whole process is professional and enjoyable. The programs and training they offer are top notch as well. We highly recommend them to anyone looking to adopt. Thanks again Kay for helping us find Pearl girl! Forever grateful!
Charleston Animal Society rescued Bruno Mars, an Australian Cattle Dog, in 2021 after his owner died. I was able to adopt him, and now he’s my best buddy! Charleston Animal Society is doing a lot of great things for pets and their people in the SC Lowcountry and beyond. Grateful for their work!
We are so thankful to have this valuable resource in our community. They help find homes for not only cats and dogs but all creatures in need, even lost Pigs. I support them because they help so many animals find a better life, and this is no easy task. Thank you all for being there.
Forever grateful to the Charleston Animal Society for their hard work in saving animals. I am especially grateful for the hard work they did during the Laurens County Puppy Mill bust January of 2020. We were able to foster and adopt our Charlie from CAS and we are so in love. We will continue to support the Charleston Animal Society and look forward to fostering and adopting again in the future. Great non-profit no-kill organization!!! The entire team is amazing!
The Charleston Animal Society is a wonderful organization going above and beyond for all the animals that come their way. Years ago I fielded a team in the chili-cook off, a yearly event that is so much fun and a very important fundraiser for them. We adopted our sweet Kuby in November of 2019 from Pounce Cat Cafe. This is a wonderful place that partners with Charleston Animal Society where you can sit and play with all the kitties while sipping an adult beverage! We knew Kuby was the right cat for us when she let me pet her belly with no complaint. She is the sweetest cat I've ever known and has brought us so much joy. Charleston Animal Society's tireless efforts to care for and find good homes for so many animals is admirable and much appreciated. Thank you!
We are longtime supporters of the Charleston Animal Society via programs, donations, kids birthday parties and camps. This year we adopted a dog after our beloved older dog passed away. We kept our eye on their website of adoptable pets and kept coming back to one; I went to meet her and that was it, I knew she needed to come home with us! Roxy is about 5 years old, a boxer mix with one ear up and one ear down and heartworm positive. We were not deterred by the heartworm but did not know the extent of the treatment and how much CAS goes above and beyond for these animals. CAS fully covers the cost ($1000+) and care of multiple visits, shots, and prevention when you adopt a HW+ dog from them. They educate you extensively and give you resources at home to support the dog during treatment. We have been so impressed with the entire program! Roxy turned out to be the exact right pet for our family; she's sweet, gentle, loves cuddles and walks and we couldn't be happier with our choice to adopt her!
This organization has grown tremendously over the 20 years I've been interacting with them. This is thru the incredible work of the board, employees, vets, volunteers and community. We were new comers to Charleston in 2000 when we adopted a pair of sister kittens. Shortly afterwards we adopted a pup and 3 1/2 years ago I adopted my latest little joy from them. I have participated in many fundraisers, community events and assisted with projects to assist the site to make it more functional for fur babes looking for homes and the prospective new hooman families.. I've watched them in amazement launch rescue operations to states for hurricane relocation, large scale assistance when animals need rescuing and also to assist with transporting animals. This is such a blessing to our community, and the families and animals passing thru the doors. Education for school groups, spay and neuter clinics and animal training. They assist with building safe fencing so animals don't need to stay leashed, assistance with providing families in need with food for the pets (we all need help sometimes). So many animals which have been victims of abuse, neglect or accidents are truly blessed to make it into their team of dedicated veterinarians. There are so many stories of animals saved by these real heroes. Books have been written! Fundraising is year round to provide animals with all the necessary medications and treatments they need to heal, thrive and move on to new homes. The foster network is amazing and incredible. This organization is never lazy... they are always thinking outside the box with outreach, technology, education, fundraising, transportation (did you hear about the wonderful volunteer who flew a lovely dog back to his home state with family members after surgery and recovery when it was injured and the owner killed in a bicycle accident while passing thru Charleston? My wonderful little chorkie (chihuahua yorkie mix) was nurtured and fostered by Kay Hyman, the Director of Community Engagement at CAS and her daughter Zoe till I was able to adopt. I am so thankful they thought of me to adopt this little baby. She has traveled with my in my work to be my companion when I came back to the hotel, for weeks at a time. She has flown with me for work as well. With Covid, she is home with me, ruling as a Queen at her little 3.5lbs and running her big brother, a 115lb German Shepherd like a boss. I named this little one Zoe, after Kay's daughter for the love and care they gave my baby while she was with them. Zoe has had visits with Kay a couple of times and totally remembered her. We are due another reunion as it has been a couple of years now and I KNOW she will remember Kay... so much love we in Charleston have for CAS.
The Charleston Animal Society is maybe the best organization I have come across during my 35 years in Charleston. I have come to greatly respect the people who work there as a labor of LOVE for each and every one of them that I have had the pleasure to meet, during my time as a foster parent. The love they show for each animal and the caring they put forth to any and all who might come by to just look or hopefully adopt an animal from them is amazing. The vets & the vet techs that take care of these animals, no matter the condition coming in is unprecedented, and what ever they are getting paid for their time and great service.... is not enough. Anything I have ever needed from them to help care for any of the fosters I have had over the years, is quickly gotten and always with a smile & thank you from any and all who work there.
The fact that they are a no kill shelter is just the tip of the iceberg to the caring and dedication everyone shows from the administrators to the volunteers. I am honored to do a very small part to help them accomplish the mission and goals they have now and in the future. They work on donations from the public, so anyone who can donate anything, I know is always greatly appreciated.
Charleston Animal Society is an incredible asset to the community and the state at large! The team has an infinite amount of love and knowledge that they share with their animals and the community. I have fostered with the organization for almost a year and they have created a support network unlike any other. Any time I have had a question or concern, the CAS team is quick to respond and even allow foster parents to come to the shelter for support. When I finally decided to adopt my own pet, it was the perfect fit to adopt through CAS. They made it a quick, simple, and informative process that sent me on my way with my first foster fail! My kitten was extremely well socialized and has a hilarious personality unlike any other. His favorite thing is to play hide and seek (see attached video and pictures)! I would recommend CAS to any and all who are interested in fostering, adopting, or learning more about animals. Thanks CAS!
This is a wonderful organization that does much more than shelter animals. They believe that lifting up the community will result in better treatment of our animals. The staff works tirelessly for the animals and the humans that love them here in SC.
There are too many good things to say about Charleston animal Society and their dedication to so many programs is incredible. My favorite is the outreach program : I have seen lights and stars in the eyes of people when they received help for their pets. Thank you.
Most people know the Charleston animal Society for the fantastic work they do in saving the lives of countless dogs and cats and then sharing the joy of owning a pet with so many individuals. Another important role they fulfill in in our community is educating the public. They do this in a number of creative ways. Their kids camps in the summer are sensational and their ongoing education campaigns make a lasting impression on all who view them. The Charleston animal society is a model not-for-profit and is always willing to share their expertise with other not-for-profit’s to help lift them up.
Charleston Animal Society is by far the leading voice in the community advocating for the well being of animals. The organization is passionate about their No Kill initiative and has treated and saved the lives of many deserving animals. I humbly support Charleston Animal Society and the mission that they proclaim!
I can't thank you enough for keeping my dog while I deployed. It meant the world to me to come home from serving and to have her safe and sound. Bless you, all.
The Charleston Animal Society saves lives even during a worldwide pandemic. While adapting to keep the community and their staff safe, the Community Outreach Team continued to go out into rural communities to offer their free vaccinations and spay/neuter clinics. They also continued to build fences for families so their dogs would not have to be chained. The Education Team switched to virtual programming, providing in depth access to the how the shelter works. The programs were so popular with kids that adults demanded these programs as well. When natural disasters strike in our state or in the country, staff drive to those shelters to evacuate their animals. CAS has worked to enable all animal rescue organizations in my area and the state to become a No Kill Community. Overall, the Charleston Animal Society continually works to find innovative ways to make sure animals in our community, in our state and beyond are protected.
I am a long time donor, volunteer and client of the Charleston Animal Society. I am so proud of the work they do and so grateful for the resources they provide for our community. Lastly, the animals I have adopted from CAS have saved my life in many, many ways.
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The Charleston Animal Society is a vital resource for not only for the people of Charleston County, but for South Carolina and the Southeast. Locally the staff works tirelessly to take in unwanted/stray pets, provide life saving medical care, behavioral care and more so they can be be placed on the adoption floor. They have established a positive reputation in the community and have a vast fostering and volunteer network and often partner with local businesses to host offsite adoption events. For feral cats, they provide a free tnr program which helps reduce unwanted litters. For our more rural parts of the county, they come out with their mobile clinics and provide wellness checks, free vaccines and spay/neuter for pets in order to help reduce unwanted cats and dogs in the community, as well as, assist those who love their animals but do not have the financial means to provide these services. I have reached out to them for various assistance: needing pet resources in Spanish for my non-English speaking neighbor, offered my elderly neighbor free neutering/vaccines/wellness check for a cat that found her doorstep and she wanted to keep and so much more.
I started volunteering two years ago for them weekly. They have partnerships with Petsmart and Petco's where the stores host adoptable cats and kittens. I love going to socialize the cats/kittens and clean up a little. You can tell they do staff training and provide continuing education, because every person I interact with has cutting edge knowledge , is very friendly yet professional and all advocate effectively for animals.
At the state level they advocate becoming a no-kill shelter and push for legislation to protect animals. In the Southeast, they work to transport shelter pets out of harms way when natural disasters strike.
Recently we wanted to adopt a dog and we were concerned about the reputations of pittbulls and we already have 3 cats. They worked with us to adopt the perfect dog for our family and now I am a huge advocate for adopting pittbull/pittbull mixes (many of the shelter dogs are pittbulls/pittbull mixes). I just can't say enough about the Charleston Animal Society and the value they have added to my life, my pets, the community and all pets.
I adopted my sweet kitten Tobias here as a small feral kitten. Staff had a hard time handling him and he was pretty off the wall, but we took on the challenge. 1 month after having him home he was sweetest cat you'd ever meet. Thanks to Charleston Animal Society, he got the chance to learn what love is. While we lost him over two years ago now, I'll always be grateful to Charleston animal society for bringing him to me.
Total commitment to animal welfare. Amazingly focused staff always ready to help the community care for their animals, provide safe haven for abandoned, sick, abused, surrendered animals.
Caring helpful staff in north charleston even filling up blessing boxes in neighborhoods with food. They dropped off dog food to my neighbor. I know she needs the help. thanks
When I used to do side work for one of the doctors I used to work for, ALL the money I made from that side work I donated to CAS. It would have helped me out a lot but I thought of Caitlyn and others in similar situations and all the kittens that come pouring in each spring and I felt that CAS needed the money much more than I did.
CAS always goes above and beyond even when they don't have the space to take in more or the funds to care for them. CAS has volunteers who, out of the goodness of their hearts, step up in emergency situations and give homes and care whenever needed. For CAS, it's about the animal over anything else and that's why they stand out above the rest. Donations are what allows CAS to do what they do to help all the animals that come through. Every little bit helps. Even if it's only one dollar.
Charleston Animal Society has brought so much love into my world. I am an animal lover from the bottom of my heart and do whatever I can to help either by donating (money, food and supplies) or by the occasional adoption.
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I can't say enough at how GREAT and CARING Charleston Animal Society is. They go above and beyond to help ALL animals, not just dogs and cats and to find them a loving forever home. I myself have adopted more animals from there than most people have and wouldn't change 1 minute of my time with my babies. I met Kay when I adopted Lupe who was the sweetest tiny chihuahua. Needless to say, he was spoiled rotten until he crossed the bridge. I recently (3 weeks ago) went back and adopted another chihuahua as we missed having one running all over the place. I pray that one day, all animals that pass through CAS find a forever home. YOU ARE THE BEST! I also donate to CAS in different ways.
The Charleston Animal Society is a phenomenal organization! For the past several years, I have had the pleasure of being a foster parent for CAS. The foster program is top notch and runs like a well-oiled machine. The staff is always very helpful and professional. They are the hardest working team of people that I have ever come across. Most recently I fostered two small puppies from a puppy mill in upstate South Carolina (see attached video). When the puppy mill was busted, it was all hands on deck for the CAS and they worked above and beyond to find foster homes quickly for over 50 puppies. The foster team at CAS provides support and knowledge and the foster families always feel supported. Not only does the staff at CAS do an outstanding job with adoptions and fosters, they are dedicated to making our community a better place. There are always fun events, parties, oyster roasts and many other functions that bring our community together. I cannot imagine this town without the Charleston Animal Society. I literally cannot think of a better nonprofit that I have ever come across!
I had a wonderful experience at CAS! Staff is amazing and they were very knowledgeable. This is the cleanliest and most organized animal facility I have ever visited! Not to mention I got an awesome fur baby!
I fostered and adopted a mom dog and her puppy and it was such a wonderful experience from start to finish. Every time I needed to bring the dogs in for a checkup it was so apparent the staff truly deeply cared about the animals they help save everyday. I wasn't just another person and the dogs I was fostering weren't just a couple more animals. The staff was connected and invested in the care of my fosters and they were interested in not just their health but their life outside the shelter. When I donate I know it goes to support the amazing care my new family members received while at the Animal Society. And if not for the great work they do I know my new pups would not be alive today to give unconditional love to me and my family.
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I am very thankful for Charleston Animal Society. There are a lot of cats that live in my neighborhood and with all the construction going on lately a lot of them have been more out in the open. Some neighbors complained about the cats now that they could see them and were concerned about them breeding and multiplying. Thanks to Charleston Animal Society's Trap-Vaccinate-Alter-Return program I was able to get all these cats spayed/neutered for free so they could live out the rest of their life in the neighborhood without worrying people about kittens everywhere.
I adopted my kitten from CAS, who had saved him as a feral kitten. They save lives and give animals second chances every day. Not only have they helped make an incredible impact in the Charleston area, but they have also inspired and been a leader in the animal welfare community in the South. Charleston Animal Society saves lives, both humans and animals. They changed my life, and I would highly recommend getting involved with CAS in some way!
Words can’t express how grateful we are to the team at Charleston Animal Society who risked their own safety going into the flood waters from Hurricane Florence, saving countless furry lives including our two new dogs we now call family. Although they saved hundreds of animals that week, we selfishly think the most important was our momma dog and her 7 puppies who surely would have perished without the intervention of the Charleston Animal Society. Thank you will never be adequate, and we will support this non profit forever!
I've adopted 3 of my wonderful pets from Charleston Animal Society. I'm also a donor. The staff are so wonderful and helpful. Charleston Animal Society has so many life changing program's, that help the community with their pets.
Charleston Animal Society has been such a breath of fresh air for the Charleston Community. The organization really takes to heart the saying of "it takes a village." The organization gets the community active in helping it reach it's goals. And they never seem to settle for success, they continuously grow their programs to serve more animals in more places across our community and the state. Charleston Animal Society is leading the charge and not excluding anyone.
Amazing organization that has blessed our family with our dog. Staff was super friendly and we are beyond blessed to have him in our lives
CAS has to be the finest non-profit anywhere! The team, from the top-notch staffers and vets, to the loyal and dedicated volunteers, provide the best animal care to ALL animals. They travel to areas overwhelmed by flooding, or mass turn-ins due to animal abuse or neglect, etc., and treat and eventually re-home these animals. They continue their fine work to educate to prevent animal abuse. In my 20 years of living here and watching the changes, it is so clear that their hard work has had a far-reaching impact. We are a no-kill society and no-abuse too. Their dedication comes from the heart. Plain and simple – Charleston Animal Society is the BEST. Thank you for all you do for the animals.
I love Charleston Animal Society. They are the flagship of no-kill compassion for animals in the Charleston area.
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I have lived in the Charleston area for 30 years and the Charleston Animal Society, which used to be called the John Ancrum SPCA, has always been there for animals and has evolved as the city has grown and gained an international reputation.
Of particular note, it has been bold in its approach as a "no kill" shelter AND taken on a powerful interest group, the horse carriage businesses, in working to improve conditions for horses that are increasingly stressed by heavy traffic, congestion and extremely hot conditions.
I know them both as a professional, as a journalist at the local daily newspaper, and as a client, having adopted two animals from them in the past eight years.
The staff works hard to broadcast the plight of homeless and abused animals via TV, print media and social media. The Charleston Animal Society gained international attention for saving a dog, later named Caitlin, which had its muzzle taped shut, and for prosecuting the owner.
They are always ready to respond to emergencies, such as dogs caught in disasters or found on properties of animal abusers and hoarders.
The Charleston Animal Society is more than worthy as a "Great Nonprofit."
Charleston Animal Society does so much for the pets and people of Charleston County and South Carolina. I adopted my cat Broccoli there and now he is the king of my household.
Charleston Animal Society does so much to connect with the community. I wouldn't have found my pup without their connections.
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Charleston Animal Society's forward thinking is a breath of fresh air. The staff and volunteers work tirelessly to fulfill the mission and provide excellent care to the animals. The No Kill South Carolina initiative is instrumental in preventing needless euthanasia to healthy dogs in the state.
This organization is prejudice against Hispanics and people of color. Have heard comments and stories of mistreatment.
I am grateful to Charleston Animal Society for saving so many lives, especially my Phrynie Belle! I call her my Wild Child, but the fact is she is just a very happy young dog! Her spirit and determination has taught me patience and her cuddles and kisses remind me how wonderful unconditional love is. I am so happy that Charleston Animal Society is working on making the state a no kill state so everyone will have the opportunity to experience unconditional love if they are willing!
My family became complete after I adopted my Peaches from Charleston Animal Society! She is now 16 years old and her eyesight is failing and she moves a bit slower. If it was not for this amazing organization Peaches would not have had a second chance and my family would t be complete!
It is my pleasure to share my interaction and story about Charleston Animal Society. I love to support an organization that is literally "lifesaving" and "life changing" for so many people and animals. The love and care given to each animal is unmatched by any other organization I have ever witnessed. The love and support from the community really shows that it is a collaborative effort to continue to sustain the No Kill Charleston initiative. No Kill South Carolina is making such an amazing impact across the state. I am a proud supporter of Charleston Animal Society!
I've fostered and adopted 3 wonderful pets from Charleston Animal Society. All of them were "foster failures" and I love them more than anything. I'm so thankful that Charleston Animal Society treated them for multiple issues before I adopted them, because I can't imagine a world without them (or a world without Charleston Animal Society!).
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I've adopted one dog and one cat from Charleston Animal Society. They were both given second chances and a new life because of the efforts of Charleston Animal Society. My two year old hound mix, Strawberry , came into CAS with 6 other dogs and was terrified of people, one of the dogs that she arrived with had burns down his back. The staff of Charleston Animal Society treated her sibling's burns and worked to socialize her with people, after she would finally open up to people they placed her in a foster home to continue her socialization, lucky for me, that foster home was my home. Everyday CAS works to improve the lives of animals through their spay/neuter clinic, adoption center, free roaming cat initiative, and more. I now work at CAS, and donate my extra time and money to helping to make sure that Charleston will stay a No Kill Community! There is nothing better than watching a new adopter go home with a pet that is being given a second chance.
Charleston Animal Society has helped Thousands of animals . With their help and support my animals found their forever home.
Charleston Animal Society is a wonderful place to adopt from, both of my cats are from this wonderful facility. I fostered my tri-pod cat because her leg was amputated and she was very stressed in the shelter. Fortunately, she didn't leave my house :) I could not recommend a better facility to adopt from all pets come spayed or neutered, vaccinated, all pets are examined by a licensed veterinarian and the adoption process is wonderful and thorough. Everyone needs to stop by this wonderful and caring facility!
I started volunteering in 2013, the year they became no kill. I worked in the newly formed kitten room and interacted with the staff throughout the shelter. I was then and continue to be overwhelmed with the love and commitment shown by the staff. Before coming to volunteer I had adopted a kitten from there and also given small donations that I could afford because I knew of them as a worthwhile non profit. I have seen the various programs grow and develop and I admire their determination to improve shelters throughout the state, sharing their knowledge and resources. I also foster kittens and adopted Chloe several years ago. She was brought in by animal control at less than four weeks and was severely ill with upper respiratory. They did not give up on her even though it was touch and go for about two weeks. The vets and staff even took her home at night a few times. Now she is fat and definitely sassy! She enjoys interacting with the various foster kittens.
I adopted a heartworm positive dog from Charleston Animal Society and the experience went beautifully! The staff and veterinarians were very responsive to her needs and the animal society covered all the costs associated with the treatment, which saved me hundreds of dollars. They are an AAHA accredited facility (even our regular veterinarian hasn't achieved this yet), so I knew she was in the best hands for her treatment. I would definitely adopt from them again!
I've fostered and adopted 2 cats and 2 dogs from Charleston Animal Society. The support and attention given helped me with the decision to make room for one more animal in my home. Louie, our most recent addition, came in as a stray with heartworms, an embedded collar and needed his leg to be amputated. The medical treatment given to save his life is so appreciated as he makes our home complete! Having only 3 legs is not an issue for this spoiled dog! Thanks CAS!!
I have seen first hand what amazing work CAS does for the community and the animals in our community. They deserve every praise! Adopt don't shop! No kill is a big deal! Donate from the heart!
Charleston Animal Society is animal welfare at it's finest. From preventing animal cruelty, finding homes for homeless pets, to creating a more humane Charleston through Educating children - Their dedication and love for animals is the reason I donate to Charleston Animal Society.
My home would not be complete without my two Charleston Animal Society alums! They are the best at saving lives in the local community, and are now being noticed on a national scale - totally deserving!
Charleston Animal Society is an amazing, happy place. There is always so much going on! I've adopted two of my dogs there, attended the Firefighter Calendar Debut Party, fielded a team in the Chili Cook-off and attended their Annual Meeting. There are so many ways to support this wonderful organization. It's special because the people connected with it obviously care so much for their mission and for the animals.
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Throughout my time in Charleston, I have supported Charleston Animal Society through volunteering, donating, and advocacy. In 2005-2007 I volunteered after high school walking dogs, caring for kittens and puppies, and assisting adopters. During that time, we had many adult dogs come through the shelter that were heartworm positive but unable to be adopted due to the cost of treatment. Each week I picked two-three dogs that were heartworm positive and paid for the treatment.
In the time that I volunteered I also fostered many puppies and kittens that were too young, ill or in need of TLC. When these animals were ready for adoption, I found adopters or I adopted them my self. I have continued to foster over 50 animals for Charleston Animal Society since 2005. Pictured are just a few of my previous fosters that I have adopted.
I have watched Charleston Animal Society become a leader, ambassador, and role model in the animal welfare field. I will continue to support Charleston Animal Society and their efforts of establishing No Kill, No Harm, No More.
I have fostered and adopted all three of my animals from Charleston Animal Society and I am so thankful for them. Everyone there was so friendly and informative and they made sure that my home was a good fit for my babies. You can tell that everyone there and the organization as a whole shares a love for animals and wants what's best for them.
I have fostered, adopted,and volunteered with Charleston Animal Society and have always had such wonderful experiences with the staff. I have watched everything Charleston Animal Society has achieved over the last 8 years and I am amazed. They continue to be a leader for the animal welfare field in the state and the country. Charleston Animal Society has touched the lives of thousands of animals I am honored to be apart of this community!
Hi, I'm Kathy Tokarsky. I volunteer at Charleston Animal Society in the Kitten Room. About a year ago I fell in love with this tiny orange kitten. I could tell he was going to have long hair and our veterinarian confirmed he is part Maine Coon. I was overjoyed because I've always wanted a Maine Coon kitty. This tiny kitten stole my heart. He didn't have a name yet so I asked if I could name him and they said yes! So I named him McKenzie (after the main character in the movie "The Shack". Everyday I would spend extra time with McKenzie socializing with him. He was so laid back, loved belly rubs and chin rubs - he just purred and purred. At the time we had two older Golden Retrievers and they'd never seen a cat, so I was hesitant to adopt McKenzie. I brought my husband to the Shelter and introduced him to McKenzie (my husband isn't a cat person) and to my surprise he said YES to adopting him. We've had McKenzie for one year now and he brings so much joy to us. I would recommend that you visit Charleston Animal Society if you're considering a kitten, cat or dog. They are a wonderful group of people and you can tell they love what they're doing. Don't shop! Adopt!!
Charleston Animal Society is a fantastic, forward thinking organization that is innovating to save lives and lead others to do the same
Charleston Animal Society (CAS) is an outstanding, non-profit, located in Charleston, SC focused on animal welfare. They fulfill their mission, daily, turning no animal away adhering to a strict no-kill policy. I became involved with CAS by attending their 2015 Chili-Cook Off. This is their largest fundraiser, attracting over 6,000 people, while creating unimaginable awareness. I was asked to be on the committee in 2016 and happily accepted. CAS has a supportive volunteers base, dedicated staff and influential leadership. Elena Lawson, Director of Corporate Relations, has a work ethic beyond reproach and I enjoy her dedication to the CAS mission. Jaime Weber, Chili Cook-Off Chair, is also a volunteer however, you would never know it. She is extremely dedicated to the success of the shelter and proves her commitment level through the development of this fundraiser. Planning and executing alongside these two ladies is a privilege and I am looking forward to 2018 being the most successful year yet!
CAS had constantly been a valuable resource and asset the area law enforcement. Their staff and partners always stand ready to help and assist in any way they can.
Aside from the multiple programs they have for bettering the communty through education they also work with local agencies to educate youth and reach out to communities who may not otherwise have a voice. In my opinion CAS had risen above the "animal shelter" moniker and risen to behind an agent for change within the community it serves.
It's all about "walking the walk, not talking the talk." Charleston Animal Society makes things happen and actually solves problems. It's not intimidated by corrupt politicians and people who exploit animals! Thank you Charleston Animal Society!
Our kittie Elsa was rescued from the side of a Charleston freeway by a caring member of the Charleston Animal Society staff. Today she enjoys her long naps on the sofa and the love of a family that adores her. I feel our story is a great example of just how much the people of Charleston Animal Society care.
I'm a Six Sigma process engineer, which is a nerdy way of saying I evaluate processes from beginning to end and try to figure out how to optimize every step in the process in order to minimize the number of failures at the end. Every animal that is euthanized at a shelter is a failure of the overall process. Better than any animal welfare organization I have ever seen, Charleston Animal Society is working successfully to fix the broken steps in the process "upstream" - before euthanasia - in order to eliminate the need for euthanasia at the end of the line. Like many organizations, they are doing this through spay and neuter initiatives. But unlike any other I have seen, they have also developed and implemented a highly-successful educational outreach program that goes out into the community and schools to teach children how to treat and interact with animals humanely. In this way they are having an impact a few steps earlier in the process than even the spay and neuter programs are. The results speak for themselves, as Charleston Animal Society is one of the first shelters of its size, if my understanding is correct, to become a no-kill shelter. As a Six Sigma guy - and animal lover - that makes me very happy!
Great place to adopt your new family member. I adopted my beloved Russ from Charleston Animal Society two years ago. He has brought so much joy to my family. The staff was very helpful throughout the adoption process and even offered training for my new pup at a reduced rate!
Charleston Animal Society is an outstanding organization. Staff and Volunteers collaborate to delivery a compassionate care for the animals and community. Staff team is composed by empathetic members and professionals that are always looking to improve performance and to better serve animals and humans, and with a visionary leadership guided Charleston County to be the first and only community in the South to be no-kill for 5 years and counting!
Charleston Animal Society core competencies include: Animal Welfare, Humane Education, Animal Cruelty Prevention, Partnerships, Community Outreach and Advocacy.
Pets For Life, Foster and Humane Education Programs are nationally recognized.
No Kill South Carolina is a bold initiative that seeks to build a no-kill state and improve quality of care in all welfare organizations in South Carolina.
Charleston Animal Society's "No kill No harm No more" is a model to be followed nationwide!
The loving care that the animals received at Charleston Animal Society is truly wonderful. They take in and treat thousands of animals every year and adopt out so many more. From the foster program to kid's humane education and camps, the opportunities to be a part of this No Kill shelter are endless. I'm so happy to have adopted my little guy there.
I have been a vokunteer advocate for nonprofit animal charities for over 20 years in various capacities - as a volunteer, board member, and selected freelance work. With that said, I believe Charleston Animal Society exemplifies what a mission-driven nonprofit should look like, in fulfilling its promise, raising public awareness of animals in need, directly impacting its entire community, and setting an example for best practices in animal welfare. It is too easy to become a charity, but the board, staff and volunteers at Charleston have shown how its hard work matters - in the metrics and tve smiles of the animals like Caitlin.
I have volunteered at Charleston Animal Society for eight years working with newly received dogs, so I have been able to observe how the shelter is run like a well-oiled machine. I have gotten to know many of the employees and see much of what they do, from receiving strays and owner surrenders - including any from the other shelters when they are at full capacity - to housing, feeding, neutering, and providing any needed medical treatment to received animals. I have met participants of their extensive foster program, as well, who help house and free up space for "overflow" animals from the shelter to assist in the saving of the thousands of animals that come to the facility each year. I am a "foster failure" myself who ending up adopting a dog I took in to free up space in the shelter when they rescued dozens of animals that were victims of massive flooding in Tennessee in 2011.
I am so impressed by their medical facility and staff, as well as the other employees who I see weekly. I do not see how any animal shelter can be better run than Charleston Animal Society. It's been great to watch their work with Charleston County and surrounding communities to help them turn the area into not just a single no-kill shelter but an entire no-kill community. I consider it a privilege to volunteer for them.
Ward Reynolds
Charleston Animal Society is the most impressive organization. From the Board of Directors, CEO Joe Elmore and all of the staff they are the most compassionate and hardworking people I have encountered. The scope of the services they provide is astounding from Foster Care, Community Outreach, Spay/Neuter clinics, a food bank and educational programs to mention a fraction of what they do. The mammoth task they have accomplished in becoming a No Kill Shelter has saved so many animal lives. But not stopping there, CAS is involved in helping more shelters in our state become No kill. I cherish their work for being a voice for our helpless creatures. Finally, Charleston Animal Society has tremendous financial momentum and is treasured by our community.
My experience with Charleston Animal Society has always been one of hope, love for animals and the community. I have had the pleasure to foster many dogs through them and always received amazing support. On a personal note , I have seen the length ( and expense) that they have gone to so that my foster Louis was saved. I love this organization for what they believe in but most of all, watching them stay true to their mission . It's easy to talk the talk , Charleston Animal Society walks the walk. I'm proud to be part of this upstanding and outstanding group of people .
My wife is very involved with this organization, and I often attend events with her. We have a team for the annual chili cook-off fundraiser and always attend the annual meeting celebration. A few years ago, after both of our older dogs had passed away, my wife wanted to start fostering right away. I didn't want any part of it because I didn't want it to feel like we were replacing our others. Well, she went to the shelter and came back with a shy puppy, Hannah, who was a handful, but fun to have around. I guess I can admit it was a little quiet not having any animals in the house so despite it all, it was nice to have the puppy energy around. Hannah was adopted by one of my wife's coworkers, so of course my wife headed back to the shelter to scoop up another. This time she came home with a staffie mix, Ginger, and we both fell for her pretty quickly. It didn't hurt that she was housetrained, knew basic commands, and was clearly well trained in a home (she didn't jump on the furniture until after we allowed it and ruined that). :-) Ginger had heartworms, but was treated by Charleston Animal Society and was now in good health. After a few people had expressed an interest in her, we pretty much knew we had to make it official because we couldn't part with her. It's been a few years now and I'm grateful Ginger came into our lives (and that my wife persisted in fostering). Sometimes, you don't know what you need until it shows up in your life, and that's our Ginger. We support Charleston Animal Society in all that they do and are really proud to be a part of a no-kill community. Charleston Animal Society isn't just a shelter for homeless animals; they do outreach to underserved communities, provide resources to pet owners, have tons of fun events and promotions, offer reduced cost spay/neuter for the community, and are all-around really friendly people who are passionate about what they do. But it doesn't stop there. They're also taking it a step further and working to help other communities across the state become no-kill, and are deeply invested in building and supporting a community in Charleston that is free from harm to both animals and humans. What's not to love?
I've adopted two dogs and one cat from the Charleston Animal society. All three animals are friendly and in great health. If you're looking for a pet, there are plenty of wonderful animals waiting for adoption.
My family and I had the unique opportunity of fostering a Chihuahua mix dog that was born with a cleft palet and had to have surgery to correct this condition. The surgeon coined him "Elvis" and we looked after him for two weeks. Charleston Animal Society was with us every step of the way during the fostering process. After our two weeks was up with "little man", we decided that we just could not part with our new furry friend and decided to adopt him. He has been with us now for over a year and has filled a great void in my life, in particular, that I never knew was there. Having been a cat person for all my life, little Elvis has shown me that dogs are truly man's best friend. I was blind, but now I see.
JL
The Charleston animal society does so many wonderful things in the community I am not sure where to start. The staff is priceless. They are no kill, and find home for all animals. They
Go above and beyond to save lives.
My mom tells my story on www.facebook.com/Rex's.journey2016 I would tell it myself but I lack oposable thumbs and I have a poor understanding of the English language. The short and sweet version is, a very nice man found me lying in a field fought, then discarded and left for dead with all kinds of terrible wounds. He was caring enough to feed me and make sure I was safe until someone who could take me to get the vast medical attention I needed showed up. I was taken to Charleston Animal Society where my missing ear was sewn up, the gaping wound on my front leg was treated, my facial wounds were cleaned and healed. I was neutered (not sure I am a huge fan of this, but the humans promise me it is good) I was given a microchip in case my future family lost me I could be easily found, then the most expensive care of all, I think. Heartworms. For sure, the most preventable. I was given very expensive antibiotics that are absolutely necessary prior to treatment. Then I was treated with two rounds of very expensive (and absolutely terrible, but necessary) treatment. I was sent to a foster home to help out during hurricane Matthew but my foster mom had been inquiring anyway because she had wound experience so I stayed after the storm and I was such an amazing guy that my foster family decided I should be a furever member. The best part? Many very loving dog and cat moms and dads may not otherwise consider taking on a pet in our condition. BUT, with the help of absolutely amazing not for profit organizations like Charleston Animal Society, the average animal lover can afford to love dogs like me and Catelyn and my mom's work friend's new baby Henry, who is also a victim of heartworms but we know he's going to be okay because he's also a patient of Charleston Animal Society's. As if CaS hasn't done enough for me, because I was recently under their care as a heartworm patient, mom got crazy cheap prevention meds for a full year! You really just can't beat the care we have gotten from them! Furthermore, granted, not all babies will be remembered by CAS staff, thankfully we aren't all Catelyn! Or Rex's for that matter, those of us with tough stories are personally remembered by staff you recognize at CAS! Mom ran into Ms. Kay at an event and introduced herself. She told Kay she had Rex. Mom said it only took Kay a second to recall and she asked for pics right away. That makes me happy! I loved her instantly! ❤️
We used to live in the Charleston area. While there, we volunteered at several of the Charleston Animal Society. Kay Hyman and her crew do an amazing job. We also adopted our late Peggy Sue there. A more loving and loyal dog you could not find. My husband's favorite cat was also a CAS rescue. We now live in GA and are no longer able to assist CAS in their endeavors.
We have been dealing and donating to this organization for years. They do wonderful work especially because of the "no harm no kill no more" plan that they initiated and achieved a few years ago.
As a member of the Charleston, SC community, I am thankful for the hard work and dedication of the staff and volunteers at the Charleston Animal Society. I am honored to donate monthly to do my small part to help the Charleston Animal Society.
We were an active foster family for animals at Charleston Animal Society. Our most recent foster pup, was a 4 month old puppy, who we named Olive, had a few health issues. The foster program staff at the shelter were amazing to work with, scheduling check-ups, supplying medication, providing guidance and assistance to help us fully support this puppy who required a lot of love and patience. A couple of months into the fostering, my family decided that this foster pup really belonged with our family forever. The Charleston Animal Society continued to support us and our soon to be forever friend until Olive was fully recovered from her medical conditions. Once Olive was given a clean bill of health, the staff at Charleston Animal Society made the adoption process seamless. They provided lots of great information, pamphlets, and contacts in the local community to help us with every day dog ownership. We are so glad Olive is a part of our family and so thankful to Charleston Animal Society for giving Olive and so many other animals a second chance.
I got my Cat Dixie from CAS This year through Pounce cat Cafe Downtown . Best experance ever. Dixie continues to amaze me every day I've never had a cat that plays fetch before LOL she's a blast ...Thank You to CAS for helping me find my forever fur baby .... keep up the great work ...
We found Jellybean running around our neighborhood in April 2014. No tags. No collar. No manners. I immediately took her to the emergency vet to get her scanned. No chip. So I brought her home while we figured out what to do, and she made herself right at home. After a couple of days, it was obvious that nobody was looking for her, and we'd fallen in love. We desperately wanted her, but we wanted to do it the right way. So we surrendered her to Charleston Animal Society, which was the hardest thing I've ever done, and we went ahead and filled out the adoption paperwork so that she could come home as soon as her stray hold was up. It was the longest five days of my life. They spayed her, gave her all of her shots, and treated her for heart worms, and handed her back to me. As happy as she was to see me again, it was obvious that she'd been the recipient of tons of love while we were apart. I'll never be able to repay them for saving my girl and making my family complete!
Charleston Animal Society is an AMAZING organization! We have adopted 2 animals from the shelter and we could not be more grateful for our furry friends! The staff is so helpful and we had a great experience all around! :) We highly recommend that if you are looking for a pet the first place you stop is Charleston Animal Society!!
I have been a lifelong animal lover and avid supporter of the Charleston Animal Society for several years and have had many family members adopt wonderful pets from this organization. I am proud to be friends with the Director of Administration as she is an exceptional example of the kind of person that you would want to work there and who should work there. She has rescued and provided many pets with a beautiful life in a loving home and has made a life's commitment to provide for the abandoned or abused. She truly "walks the walk and talks the talk." I am thankful for her and the entire staff of this no kill shelter.
If I ever win the lottery, I will pay for every animal to have a forever home!!! Well, that won't happen but I can wish that every animal at the Charleston Animal Society will find their forever home. It is such a great place!
As a donor and a volunteer for the Charleston Animal Society, I want everyone to know what a super staff runs the Charleston Animal Society. I write for the internal newsletter and a lot of what I write is staff interviews ... so I get to ask personal questions and write about the individuals. Almost to a person, every staffer is happy in their job, happy with where they work, and happy to be working with animals. It is kind of incredible that so many staffers plan to be at the Charleston Animal Society in 5 years!!!
It's a great place to work (obviously!) and a wonderful progressive animal shelter. Charleston Animal Society is a No Kill shelter and has now become a No Harm shelter. They do great things!! Nuff said!!!
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Well, I'm probably the only volunteer who can't go in the building!! You see, the combination of dander, chemicals, and pet food makes it impossible for me to breathe in the building. So I do fundraising. A very important and very needed function. I love to talk to people and "NO" doesn't bother me.
Some of the things the Charleston Animal Society does includes: The Charleston Animal Society (CAS) doesn't turn away ANY hurt or abused or abandoned animal from our doors and medical treatment is funded through our Toby Fund. You can imagine the magnitude of medical treatment needed by thousands of animals. CAS offers low-cost (or free) spay/neuter clinics to the public. CAS runs a 'no judgment' pet food bank so people can keep their pets rather than abandoning them. (Cost of food is the number one reason pets are abandoned.) This food bank is community involvement at its finest because, you see, the public donates all food for the food bank! Neighbors truly helping neighbors. We also have a large network of foster homes where animals stay while recuperating from treatment or until they are adopted. In our network of foster homes, we actually have 'hospice' foster homes where sick or otherwise unadoptable senior animals can live out the remaining years of their lives in a warm loving home.
Our goal was to be a No-Kill Community by 2015. We met that goal in late 2013 and have been 'No Kill" for 16 months. But it was expensive. Many 'no-fee' adoption events were held. It takes over $250 to get an animal ready for the adoption floor ... adoption fees only reduce that amount, not pay for it. We've been offering adult cats at no-fee for over a year. As part of our No-Kill Community effort, we routinely trap feral cats, spay/neuter, and release the cats back where they lived. Yes, expensive. But very necessary.
Perhaps I'm prejudiced ... but I am certainly proud to be associated with the Charleston Animal Society. I consider the Charleston Animal Society to be one of the most progressive shelters in the Southeast ... but perhaps I'm prejudiced.
There are many things about Charleston Animal Society that I think are very admirable. But the one I will focus on here is their transparency. On their website, (www.charlestonanimalsociety.org/important-documents) you will find their tax returns, audits, annual reports and other information that is designed to keep donors and supporters completely informed as to the operation of the organization. All nonprofits should be this open!
I have a long family tie to the Charleston Animal Society and have seen the current generation of leadership take the society to a place that my grandmother would hardly believe. Integrity in policy is essential, and the Charleston Animal Society stands tall for our community to do what is right. The society is innovative and knows how to work with a variety of different constituencies so that the whole community understands the mission and the progress. Joe Elmore and his team deserve credit for raising the bar and exceeding expectations consistently.
The Charleston community is so thankful for the hard-work and dedication of the CAS staff. CAS has implemented key developments that has lead to the first no kill community in the South (a goal many of us believed to be impossible.) Aside from the ever-present triumphs in the common-wealth, CAS has dedicated numerous resources into academia to better enforce the success of said triumphs; whether through obedience courses at the North Charleston facility, summer camps/birthdays for children, or classroom visits in the local schools. CAS has provided our community with the tools to ensure that animal well fare continue to be a priority in our wonderful city. I personally have three dogs for CAS and each has changed my life for the better, I will always be indebted to CAS.
All of my thanks and praise,
Randolph Cooper
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I was fortunate enough to find my most recent canine companion through CAS. Their amazing staff and unmatched dedication saw that I was coupled with the perfect pup. My dog "Louis" arrived at CAS malnourished with matted hair, the trained staff brought my new bud back to perfect health and gave him a great haircut. I can't thank CAS enough for the latest addition to my family. I strongly encourage members of the Charleston community to support this local jewel or perhaps pearl is more appropriate.
Incredibly thankful,
Randolph W. Cooper
Charleston Animal Society is a wonderful organization. Finding homes for so many animals and prosecuting those who abuse animals. I will always be greatful to CAS as I adopted my own sweet little terrier mix from them. Huck is a great dog who we love dearly.
5 stars is too little for them. I wish I could give 10.
Charleston Animal Society helped me enjoy a much better life by pairing me with several great animals that I adopted. I applaud the organization's leadership in the protection of animals and its willingness to help other organizations succeed. Most of all, its integrity, as evidenced by its numerous awards and honors, makes our entire community proud!
Thank you to this wonderful organization and the great job they do controlling the population of free roaming cats! I am so proud of all the strategies that they employ to make sure that we remain a No Kill community.
Me and family members trapped feral cats and paid for them to get spayed. Now all of them are sick and we took them to the vet and she said it's a bacterial infection from getting spayed. We took our house cats there too and both ended up getting sick after being spayed Also they were going to euthanize a cat that I brought it all because it had a hurt paw. Now that same cat I paid for all the expenses and it's in a great home. No kill is a lie and also they are making cats sick by not sterilizing their instruments. I have vet bills to prove it.
Where are the 70 confiscated rabbits CEO of CAS?
70 confiscated domestic rabbits (helpless prey animals) have been hidden by both Charleston Animal Society & Halifax Humane Society since 1/1/2016 and sent in c/o predator owners & undisclosed "farms" without spay and neuter.
Valid questions of concern remain unanswered. Why would (CAS) a no - kill shelter send 70 confiscated rabbits out of State to a kill shelter (Halifax) who states they have no room for more than 3 rabbits? Upon arrival, Halifax immediately transferred the 70 rabbits to a Wildlife Ctr/predator owner that distributed them to his friends on 3 farms where they remain hidden.
Claiming to be Hero's and possibly sending neglected rabbits from one bad situation to another on farms that may have placed them into another bad situation is not acceptable.
Local rabbit rescue persons working with CAS and Rabbit Rescues to find placement for these rabbits when they were shot down.
The Rabbit Community is asking for full transparency and proof these rabbits are in adoptive family homes As Promised in the media, spayed & neutered,
alive, given proper medical care, not being used as food for predators or humans and not being bred for profit.
Read the facts here:
https://www.change.org/p/joe-elmore-miguel-abi-hassan-where-are-the-69-neglected-rescued-rabbits
This organization has made great strides for animal welfare and becoming a non-kill shelter. Thank you!
Terrible of you to use and monger an injured dog to generate funds from the public, knowing all along thousands of the same exact breed, that are perfectly healthy are pts every single day in our shelters across the U.S.
I have been following the rescue of Caitlyn ever since seeing her story begin on CNN one week ago. To see her as of today, after receiving tender loving care and expert surgical repair in the hands of the many wonderful people at both Charleston Animal Society and Veterinary Specialty Care of Mount Pleasant SC, well it's just amazing! You are all angels! Thank you for all that you do, every day. You will forever be in my thoughts. Caityln is a miracle and will bring her 'forever family' much joy and happiness!
MY HEART AND LOVE GOES OUT TO YOU FOR WHAT YOU DO EVERY DAY....I DO VOLUNTEER WORK IN RALEIGH, NC AND MY HEART CONSTANTLY BREAKS AT THE HEARTLESSNESS THAT I CONSTANTLY SEE.....I THINK THAT THERE SHOULD BE LAWS FOR PEOPLE WHO ABUSE ANIMALS...THEY SHOULD NEVER BE ALLOWED TO HAVE AN ANIMAL AGAIN....THEY HAVE ABUSED THAT RIGHT...AND THEY SHOULD BE JAILED....SOMEONE SHOULD BE TEACHING THESE PEOPLE THAT THERE ARE OTHER WAYS TO LIVE.....THIS ABUSE IS PASSED ON FROM ONE GENERATION TO THE NEXT AND IT NEEDS TO BE STOPPED......
I love your story about Caitlin and all that the doctors and staff have done to save her life from the horrible abuse she suffered. THANK YOU!!!!
I just want to say that what you guys do is special in every way possible helping animals not to suffer this cruel harsh pet owners and have a chance TO LIVE happy and thriving lives is amazing. Many thanks to special people like you who go that extra mile to help something in need!
I'm sure that you're being overwhelmed with responses after the world learning about Caitlyn. It's sad that such an unfortunate incident had to occur to bring to light what a wonderful gem you have in the Charleston Animal Society. As our societies slowly change and begin to realize that having opposable thumbs doesn't give us the right to inflict damage on the earth and its inhabitants, places like the Animal Society shine through as leaders. They walk the walk and talk the talk and the animals are the better off for them. Kudos CAS!!
Everyone at this animal hospital/shelter (and all no-kill shelters) are Angels sent from heaven to take care of our poor abused and homeless furry Angels here on earth. Are world is a better place because of them!!!
God blesses your work each day. To see Caitlyn's progress after such a short time attests to the healing nature of your Entire staff. Thank you for giving hope to some of the worst abused dogs I've seen!
There isn't enough words nor is there any word that could describe how meaningful everything you do is. I have always been an animal lover, grew up with the crazy animal house & currently have 4 dogs, a cat & a rabbit. I am always reading your posts & can't wish hard enough that there was a lot more places like this & people like you. To say I appreciate everything you do is a complete understatement. Thank you so much for everything you do!
Thank you for saving that poor dog that was taped around her mouth. I am so happy she can find great caring and kindness after such a vicious attack.
The Charleston Animal Society is a truly amazing love-filled charity making a meaningful impact to so many lives, both animal and human. Wonderful people indeed.
This is a NO KILL shelter that takes in some of the worst cases of animal abuse and rehabilitates these fur babies back to health. They have amazingly dedicated people who need our help, and no amount is too small!!
Thanks for taking such wonderful care of Caitlyn and getting her the best help possible (it seems) in her time of need!!! I hope she is able to bring some funds to help with her care and treatment. Would loves the updates to make sure she is doing okay and also what if any sentence the criminal gets for doing this to her!
Thank you for all you do to rescue animals , my pets are family .It breaks my heart to see any animal abused . Your facility is wonderful , Thank You!!!! Jan
The C.A.S. has an exceptionally knowledgeable, compassionate and dedicated staff that works tirelessly to care for and find loving homes for scores of abandoned, abused, and neglected animals in the Charleston area. They are constantly using innovative techniques to engage the community in supporting the important work they are doing through direct donations, fundraising projects, special adoption programs, fostering, volunteering, TNR feral cat projects, and community outreach activities.
There is not enough thank yous in the world to say to you for all you are doing to help Caitlyn. Truly the Lord's work. ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
I have just heard about Caitlyn, what this man did is barbaric to say the least! A huge THANK YOU to the Charleston Animal Shelter for a fine job in treating Caitlyn, she is so full of love and is absolutely a happier dog! I pray a good home will be found for her! I wouldn't mind getting her myself, but I live in Georgia.
What these people have done no words could possibly express my deepest gratitude and appreciation for the care and love they have given Caitlyn and Louis. Thank you for rescuing these beautiful dogs. I live in PA and can't thank you enough for all you do.
This facility is awesome. We need more of these. I am praying they can continue to help the dogs/cats that are thrown away by ignorant people. They are caring and devoted to these animals.
I am an advid animal lover and support people like you and your organization to take charge of a horrific situation and show these poor babies love, probably for the first time since they were taken from their mothers. I read where this guy is already out on bond and has another dog in spite of the judges order that he cannot have anymore animals. Since, he broke the conditions of his release are they going to save this next little victim before it's too late and take this guy back to jail to serve his full sentence ?
The Charleston Animal Society is a fantastic place for fur babies in distress. Adopting an animal should be a lifetime commitment, no exceptions except of course if the pet parent dies. All my life I have gotten my fur babies from shelters because they are so in need of love and care. The great thing is that love, care, and finding great forever families to adopt them is all in a day's love for these wondrous folks. I just can't say enough great things about them. But, the way Caitlin looks today compared to how she looked on admission, just says it all. Love is the most needed thing in the lives of dogs and humans.
Where I live we have an "Animal Control" officer, that changes several times a year and they do nothing. I rescue animals and find them homes myself. I can barely make it on my own but I will not sit by & let an innocent animal be abused, starved whatever! So these people are so awesome and I look forward to reading their posts everyday. I would give anything to have a no kill shelter here in my town but unfortunately we dont. 12 innocent dogs were euthinized on Monday because thier "time was up". It makes me sick. I can't donate because I have to try and rescue the animals here in my town because with me they get a second chance with our messed up system they get a death sentence = no chance! Keep up the awesome work everyone has done with Caitlin she desereved her second chance. Thank You
Signed: A very loving,caring, and giving pet owner/rescuer
Charleston Animal Society has done exceptionally caring work in the extreme cruelty cases of Caitlyn and Louis, as well as saving countless other animal's lives. Dog Bless you for all the you do!
I am following Caitlin's Story and the amazing work from the awesome people at Charleston Animal Society - Well done & please keep fighting the good fight ! What you have done for Caitlin is nothing short of a miracle.
What you have done for Caitlin is beyond Amazing!!! Please find her an awesome family & home! your Staff & Drs are beyond Amazing!!!
This group is without a doubt simply stated---incredible. What they have done for Caitlin and so many other abused and neglected animals is worthy of our respect and support. Thank you for the work you do.
While haven't had any personal dealings with your organization, I can appreciate the work that you do. My husband and I have been rescuing animals for over 10 years and we have seen our share of cruelty while working at our local shelter.
I just wanted to say thank you for taking such wonderful care of Caitlin. So many people have been praying for her and it is people like your team that makes it a better place all our furry ones in need. God Bless you all and please continue doing what you do!
Thank you, thank you, thank you!!!! There is a great need for a no-kill shelter. They have such a heart for animals.
Thank You for taking care of Caitlyn, And for all the other animals you have helped over the years. Thank You for Being a no Kill Shelter, I know it takes a lot to do what you do, I am unemployed right now but will make a donation in the near future, Good Luck and God Bless each and everyone on your staff & the Animals.
Bravo to this wonderful organization. I have been introduced to them through Caitlyn, but have since been reading up on them. They are a role model for all other shelters.
So happy to see how you have helped Caitlin. Thrilled to learn you were the first no kill shelter in the southeast. Great model for the rest of the shelters.
Thank you soo much for what you have done and are continuing to do for Caitlyn. Makes me sad that anyone could hurt an animal and in such a horrible way. I thank God for ya'll. You give me hope! I pray she will be able to forget this terrible offense & find a loving family that will treat her right. God bless ya'll from your friend in Georgia
Amazing organization showing respect, dedication, and overall the love for animals. You make the world a better place for everyone, two legged and four!!
Thanks for all the hard work y'all have been doing with all the dogs that come to you! God bless you all!!
Thank you so much for all the tender loving care this beautiful fog, Caitlin is receiving. I'm sure you handle all of the animals in your care the same way. Please keep up the good work. I wish I could donate, but I am unable to right now.
The tremendous outpouring of support for both Louis and Caitlyn have brought the CAS to the forefront recently. Many folks didn't know they existed until these stories went viral. Charleston Animal Society has been a leader in the treatment, care, fostering & adoption process for many years and continues to better our community daily! Truly an amazing group of people, helping amazing animals every day!
You guys rock!!! Thank you for all you do. Where would Caitlyn or any of the animals be without you guys!!
Thank you for all the care and dedication you do for all the sweet animals in your care. You guys Rock!
Thank you for your compassion and love for all animals! Your efforts are truly appreciated, and make a world of difference to the animals you serve. God Bless.
Wish there were more no kill organizations like you folks. Just amazing the things you do to save furkids like Caitlyn who now has a look of hope & love in her eyes instead of broken and despair. Thank you!
I e volunteered in a shelter before and if that baby had made it into that shelter she would have been euthanized immediately. You guys have done an amazing job with Caitlyn and people all
Over the world are talking about how great your organization is. Good bless everyone of you !!!!!
I am very impressed by the educational programs, summer camps, volunteer opportunities and even BIRTHDAY PARTIES CAS provides to help educate the public and bring awareness to such an important issue, along with their most important no-kill philosophy. This is amazing work that they do all for the welfare of the animals!
Thank you for setting the example for other communities and states that still have a long way to go in embracing the protection and care of God's creatures. I am from a rural community in Kentucky where no-kill shelters are a rarity and large dogs in particular are picked up and turned in to these shelters at an alarming rate. My husband and I have 7 rescue cats and 2 rescue dogs, all beautiful and loving. It warms my heart to hear about the progress being made across the South. Find out what is happening in your communities , people and make a stand. God bless you.
The work and dedication and love you give to these animals could never be measured. It is simply amazing and 100% selfless, and that is hard to come by! Thank you for all you do.
Caitlyn & Louie are 2 recent examples of extra special care given to injured pups w no concern for costs. We need to give so that they can do good deeds. I give thru CFC annually
I think the work you do is vital to abused animals. Thank you so much for your dedication to the animals.
You are the best!!Thanks for helping all of these beautiful animals!!I only have rescues!!Let's help these animals live happy,long lives!!Adopt a doggie ot cat today!It will make your heart sing!!
You guys ROCK!!! Thank you for all the hard work you do to help and save the unwanted dogs/animals...You are their voice ...Keep fighting the Good Fight!
You are a SHINING EXAMPLE of what's possible when people put their mind to doing GREAT THINGS FOR THE ANIMALS!! May many other "shelters" copy your role & leadership!! THANK Y
Doing GOOD is whats it's all about. Taking care of the most innocent living beings is such noble work and needs to be supported.
Thank you so much for what you're doing! There truly are angels among us. Following your page and sharing all updates on sweet Caitlyn...
God bless each of you!
When I was a little girl, one of my dogs was let out of her cage by the neighborhood kids and she was then lured away. My stepdad went to look for her at all of the local pounds hoping someone had picked her up. When he got to the last one near our house, he found her and also found out that the shelters near us gassed the animals after several weeks of holding them BC they didn't have the room to keep them. My family are huge dog lovers. He ended up coming home with not only our dog, but about 10 more on top of it. He couldn't stand the thought of those innocent pets being gassed just because they had been there a couple weeks. It broke my heart to find out that's what happened to these poor animals. So it's truly amazing to find a place where the people not only nurse the animals back to health, but also do not kill them. Y'all are truly heaven sent for these animals and I greatly appreciate the work y'all do. There should be many more places like this everywhere. No animal should ever have to be abused but the sad truth is the world can be a cruel place. It warms my heart to see good people helping these innocent animals. Y'all are truly amazing people.
I live in Texas and have seen the kind of work this awesome place does thru social media, primarily Facebook. I love that they are a no kill shelter and other shelters around the country can learn from them!
What a wonderful place where several earth angels help dogs & cats that's been abused, hurt, starved, neglected. I can only pray for more caring places be opened across the United States to save these animals from harm and give them back there lives and show them love and caring. May God bless each of you. Thank you for loving, caring & helping and being a VOICE for the Voiceless.
They give hope to the innocent ones who have lost hope. They give second chances to the furbabies who have been discarded and sentenced to death. Charleston Animal Society is one of the most giving, kind and successful rescues and so many lives have been made better because of them. Thank you CAS!!!
I found out about this wonderful organisation through the horrific case of animal abuse that little Caitlyn world "famous". I'm so impressed by their work with the animals, their expertise and continous hope for animals many others have given up on. I wrote a message on their page to wish Caitlyn luck and they took time to reply with a photo and an update. I'm so grateful that organisations like this exist because what they do is not easy. Please support them in their incredible efforts to help animals.
These guys n girls are amazing without them poor animals LIke Caitlan wouldn't stand a chance thank you #or
I work at a busy Animal Hospital in Las Vegas Nevada and see too often abused and neglected babies that still want only to be loved after the horrors they have endured for who knows how long . God Bless you for your continued support and Love for the forgotten and neglected babies.
Anybody who would care for a sweet dog like Kaitlyn is a winner in my book. Her poor face and mouth, all swollen up from that tape. What was that guy thinking?? But thanks to the folks at Charleston Animal Society she will receive the best of care. Thanks you guys!
Look how far this little girl has come, all due to the help of some loving and beautiful people who got her here, but let's not forget the one Monster who put her through this hell. Please any and all who know anything about this person ..come forward !!! Otherwise the next ones torture, pain and heartache is on you!! Thank you Charleston animal society for all you do!!!
I saw the story about Kaitlyn and I am so glad that you were there to help! I am also very glad to find out that there is a no kill facility in South Carolina. I own a condo in the Myrtle Beach area and will be moving there to retire in the next couple years.
You guys do a great job in helping these poor animals! Makes my heart happy to see people who care :) no animal deserves to be mistreated. If you don't love animals don't get one! I'm sick of seeing horrible posts of animals being killed and mistreated. Seeing what you guys do gives hope to animals suffering :)
I have been following your updates on little Caitlin. I am so grateful there is such an organization like this and so many caring and skilled professionals to care for this little darling. We have been praying for all of you and that precious little dog. Keep the news coming; many folks here in Tennessee are following closely.
Follow this organization on social media. They go above and beyond to care for critically ill, injured, abused animals tirelessly. and place shelter animals in the best forever homes.
I first heard about you through the post about Caitlyn. I have since read about some of the other wonderful deeds you have performed. Truly wonderful, caring people. Thank you!
This team is an Awsome group of people!!!! What they do to help heal abused animals and treat them with love and loyalty. I want to personally thank you lovely group of people and tell u guys a job well done!! Thank you for being who you are!!!! Angles!!!!
Thank you for helping Caitlyn. When I first saw the pictures of her with that horrible tape wound around her muzzle so tight, I cried for her. Seeing the updates and her pics now are amazing. :)
Thank you for helping Catlin. Her story has touch people's heart all over the world
You are wonderful caring people.
Thank you everyone that had a part in saving her.
God Bless you all. You are angels sent by God to help the animals.
We need more caring people like those at Charleston Animal Society....they are doing great work !!!!!!
I was drawn to your site because of Caitlin and the Horrific abuse she has endured and is recovering brilliantly because of the wonderful people at this shelter... It's also Wonderful to know that this is a " No Kill ", shelter...
Charleston animal society is really hands on with saving animals! I have volunteered a few times before moving out of state. Great organization !!
If I can, I'd love to foster/adopt that beautiful girl you're saving right now. Caitlyn... I'm in mass but I'd love to be her mom! Thanks for all you do!!!
I love what you do for all animals but I was drawn to your facebook page when I became interested in Kaitlyn. I am so happy she is getting the life she deserves to have and hope she knows nothing but love. She is amazing and so beautiful!
This is an amazing endeavor. I so wish I lived closer to volunteer and participate more fully with this wonderful group.
YOU are an amazing place! So many animals thank you from the bottom of their hearts! And so many humans do too!! Thank you thank you thank you!
I wish I lived in Charleston because this would be my vet for my 5 dogs and 1 cat, all strays that were left by my home in the country. They have shown so much love and superior vet care for Caitlyn. Kudos to the great group of folks.
You guys are doing these beautiful animals a GREAT DEAL OF JUSTICE FOR EVERYTHING THAT YOU'VE DONE FOR THEM!! #THANKYOU !!! #WEAPPRECIATEIT !!!! #NETWORKINGSAVESLIVES
The vets at Charleston South Carolina are true hero's for helping Caitlyn and all the animals in need. Wish we had more vets like them. My God bless you and your staff for all you do to help animals. We all stand behind you. Thank you, Gilda Padgett
After seeing love, caring and compassion for Caitlyn condition and all the updates I am really amazed and blown away at how professional and how wonderful your facility is.
God bless you and everyone there for all the wonderful things you do for the animals
What an amazing team of dedicated people! I wish there were more places like this....although I wish there wasn't such a need. Your work with Caitlyn has been just amazing. The time, love & work you've put into this poor little angel just fills my heart. Keep up the wonderful work you're doing....together we can save them all.
You guys are fantastic, looking after beautiful Caitlyn, and a No-Kill shelter! We need more of your shelters for our animals throughout the world.
Love from the United Kingdom ❤️
I am so thankful that we have the most wonderful, caring, loving Animal Society in the U.S.! I appreciate all of you and all that you do for all the animals and for finding loving homes for them and I know they appreciate it too! We are so fortunate to have a place where animals can go to get another chance at having a furever home and know that when lost, or homeless animals show up they will not be given a death sentence. You are my favorite charity and I give and will always give to the animals whenever I can. Thank you all for saving Caitlyn and all the other abused animals that come in to CAS. God Bless you all. You are their guardian angels!
I have been completely impressed with the not only the level of care that has been given to Caitlyn during this ordeal but how honest and with great compassion each comment and question have been answered. I do feel this shelter has gone far above what is customary in this type of situation in the quality of care given and the measures used to give this dog a fighting chance at a normal life. I am a real animal lover and support many local shelters in my area and see sometimes just how difficult this is to do. Thank you so much for the work you do. May you always have the compassion and the funds to continue the work.
For the all dedication and effort they put towards animals, I only have two words for you: Hats off.
This is a great organization, doing a very tough job in an area of the country that, unfortunately, desperately needs their help. Fantastic people!
Caitlyn and dogs like her need the support of a place like this. It is wonderful that they do things like this instead of just leaving the dogs to suffer.
CAS is a blessing and provides a voice to those who can't speak for themselves. Thank God for people like them who step up and take action and give hope to all of these sweet, neglected and forgotten animals.
The people and organizations helping to rescue and heal abused animals are unsung heroes. The story of Caitlyn is so heart wrenching it was difficult to read. How is someone capable of doing something so cruel to a helpless animal? I volunteer at the local shelter and see first hand how cruel people can be. I sincerely hope Caitlyn gets adopted by a family who will appreciate what a special girl she is.
Support your local shelter and ALL organizations providing for animals that have been abandoned and/or abused!
Charleston Animal Society is a fabulous organization that helps so many animals! Their recent work with Caitlyn the dog whose muzzle was taped has touched me. There are countless other examples of their life-saving work. Bravo to them! I hope others will donate so that this important work can continue! Thank you Charleston Animal Society!
This organization is THE BEST. Thank God there are truly caring people like these people in the world! Restores my faith that there are truly good people out there helping/rescuing/healing the innocents...the animals. Thank you for your work!
I just heard about this place when Caitlyn came to them. What a wonderful bunch of people you are! Thank you for your part in saving the worlds me dog at a time.
I have been following the story on Caitlyn. I was so heart broken but you have made such difference in her life so quickly. I love the work you re doing. Thank you ever so much.
The Charleston Animal Society has touched my heart with their caring and swift attention to dogs like Caitlyn who was found with her muzzle taped shut and so horrendous it has moved an entire country. What would we do without great agencies to come to care for those who can not help themselves and work diligently to save and protect, care for and find forever homes for. They are tops in my book and have won my respect
i hope this is an example of the future of this country!!! i sleep better at night knowing people like these exist!!! bravo!!! and many thanks to all!!!
Thank you for all that you are doing dor Caitlyn. That poor pup certainly deserves the love and care that you are.providing for her. It is amazing how far she has come along since I first read her story. It's wonderful to see her bright-eyed with a chewy.
After reading about the very sad story of Caitlyn and the other dog impaled on a tree, and this organization coming to the rescue of these animals, I can only give them 5 stars. Anyone who works at saving these overly-abused animals with an iffy chance to live deserves nothing but the highest marks.
Caitlyn's story has touched the world. This dog should never have suffered, and I hope South Carolina will review its penalties for animal abuse cases as $5000 and 5 years doesn't even touch the level of penalty for the person who did this to Caitlyn.
Nothing but kudos, A+++, and good work to the Charleston Animal Society.
Radha Fournier
Salt Spring Island, BC
Canada
Animals don't have a voice ..Many of us weep in despair in having to witness what depraved actions human beings are capable of doing to defenseless creatures.
Animals are never a priority to our lawmakers.
This organization is amazing & the work they do in caring for neglected, abused, abandoned animals is phenomenal! The rest of the country should follow their example.
They have done a wonderful job with Caitlyn.
I learned about Charleston Animal Society when they recently rescued Caitlyn. The fact they saved her and so quickly along with providing the entire country with updates is just outstanding. I am in total awe.
My fiancé and I moved to the area last year and I stumbled upon Charleston Animal Society on Facebook. BEST LIKE EVER. I have never seen a shelter be so Involved with the animals and keeping the community in the loop. Even though some stories that they share are sad and unfortunate regarding abused animals, it really does shine a light on the local animal lovers and help raise an incredible amount of awareness on animal abuse. I really don't think the Charleston area would be the same without them! Animals deserve the same respect humans do, if not more. The Charleston Animal Society embraces that more than any other organization I have ever seen. We can't WAIT to adopt from here in the near future.
To the staff- what you're doing is such a beautiful thing; putting so much hope and love back into the community. We have so much respect for you all. Xoxox
I cannot find the words to express the gratitude and appreciation for the people of this organization. You make my heart smile. I cannot thank you enough for what you do for these animals who do not deserve the abuse and pain that they have had to endure Thank you, thank you, thankyou.
They are a wonderful caring facility, God Bless the entire staff for their hard work and dedication to loving and healing these disregarded animals. I wish them many blessings and much success with the new shelter.
Animal rescue ia some of the most nobel work anyone or any organization can do. Thank you for beeing an important part of the community and standing for the no-kill model
Have to acknowledge the wonderful work & love this organization has shown Caitlyn. Prayers are with you all for great financial increase so you can continue the great work your doing. I know I will send what I can.
I think what your organization is doing is absolutely awesome & we need more organizations with this same mission around the country. Prayers for Caitlyn.....I'm in Arkansas, but would give just about anything to be able to adopt her....I know there will be someone very loving & selfless waiting to take her home to be forever loved.
Every once in a while there is an animal rescue organization that goes the extra mile, that works tirelessly and with great love and dedication to save a particular animal. Although I live too far away to know any of you in person, my heart goes out to you because of the dedication and care you give to Caitlyn. You saved her life, and now you're working hard to save her tongue! Thank you!
You are ALL fabulous! Such great work you are doing - especially with Caitlyn. A million thank you's aren't enough!
This organization took in Caitlin, the sweet young dog whose mouth was taped very tight with electrical tape. They worked so very hard getting this sweet dog the emergency care she needed and saving her life. What a wonderful organization this is.
outstanding effort .... wouldn't it be fabulous if all states and countries could have the same enthusiasm in saving these gorgeous lives... make for a better world thats for sure....
love and kisses coming from australia...
The hard work you all put in and the love you give to these innocent, defenseless, loving animals is amazing! Love to Caitlyn and all of her friends over there, from Canada!
The love they have for the animals is just out of this world!.. thank you so much for making a difference!
Not a local, but so thankful for this wonderful group and their current great rescue of Caitlyn! Bless you all for your hard work and big hearts!
You are amazing and the love you have for animals shines in their eyes. Thank you for helping Caitlyn!
I am soooo thankful and soooo proud to know that we have such a wonderful organization to help all those beautiful, helpless angels. Ya'll definitely have a special place in heaven. :-)
Thank you for all you do to help and to heal. Bless you and your community. Poor soul, Caitlyn, came to you in the nick of time.
I want to extend my greatest gratitude to Charleston Animal Society. I am now a follower of their work since they took in Caitlyn. Any care facility that could turn a situation like that into a positive recovery, has my support.
Sadly I don't live near this shelter but I am going to support it as much as I can. Thank you for all your doing to heal that beautiful dog Caitlin! I can only imagine the love and care you give to all your animals!!! THANK YOU!!!
I am so pleased with the care and treatment Caitlyn is receiving. This country needs more shelters like this!
Outstanding work with Caitlyn, the poor dog that had abused by having her snout duct taped shut! You guys are amazing!
I appreciate the care and concern for animals such as Caitlyn. Rescue can be so fulfilling but also heartbreaking. Thanks to the Charleston Animal Society for their perseverance and dedication.
You guys are wonderful and I am so thankful for the care you are giving Caitlyn. I don't typically like pit bull dogs but she has my heart and my prayers she will totally heal and go to a wonderful, loving forever family.
THANK YOU ALL!!! I AM So happy that there are amazing people left in this world. Your organization has proven that humanity has a chance! Keep doing the wonderful work and saving those beautiful babies. The animals you cross paths are very lucky that your loving hearts will do their best to give them a second chance.
Charleston animal society Is amazing in so many ways! The doctors, staff and all the other outside personnel that take so much time and effort to care for these animals are angels on earth! I am so proud to live in a city that can boast "no kill"! I'm even prouder to be a volunteer for this fabulous organization!
It hits me to see that PEOPLE are willing to go out of their way to save sweet animals that NEVER deserved the pain they were put in! Sweet Catilyn didn't deserve what happened to her at all. I pray the heartless individuals that harm innocent animals get what they deserve! THANK YOU to all who work so hard at saving the lives of these animals! Bless you ALL!!!!
Awesome job you all do. Wish I could volunteer but I am in N.C. Keep up the amazing work. The furbabies depend on special people like you.
It's wonderful to know that there is an animal shelter that only thinks about the animals & not about the money. So glad they are caring for Caitlyn and others who desperately need their help!
I'm in Australia, so you have reached us here with your wonderful work. It is heartwarming that there are humans such as you to help our needy animals. The majority of us hit "like" are upset for a while and then scroll on, some write reviews, some donate (more should), some DO....and that is YOU. You have my respect and thanxxxxxxx
I think this is a great way to get the word out about these beloved animals that have Bern horribly abused. My hope this will get the word out to punish the animal abusers with jail time, just like they would for hurting a person. All these beautiful creatures want is the same unconditional love they give.
Pawsome staff and organization! Charleston Animal Society is a Purrfect example of what a no-kill shelter should be.
I am from PA. I found CAS while on vacation in Charleston in 2010. They had a adoptions set up in the park and we fell in love with our dog, Mandie. Since then we have made many donations and planned our trips around visiting CAS. They help so many animals. I can not say enough great things about them. They do things in the south, where the stray animal population is so much higher, that I have never seen a shelter attempt in the North. Thank you CAS for never giving up on any one. You are an amazing example of what we should all strive to be.
So proud of all you have done for Caitlyn. She continues to get better each day thanks to your great care and the compassion and love you show to the animals. The world is a better place because of people like you.
The Charleston Animal Society along with North Charleston Animal Control has really done a splendid job with the cats on our street. They instigated a tag and release program which curtailed the population growth by spaying and neutering the cats we could catch, and then releasing them back into the area. They did not take them and put them down, but helped to save lives for which we are very thankful. Awesome work and great programs! Keep it up guys and gals! Kudos to the Vets for their care and love.
You are the action people who give the rest of us HOPE. I've already donated 2x today or would again. Am trying to negotiate a property transaction so I can provide foster care. God love you as we do.
It is so heartwarming when an agency not only takes in an animal on a temporary basis but is willing to work with the injured and heartbroken ones and allows them to learn to love humans again without fear. I truly believe animals sense when they are in a kill shelter and express that fear and anger in behaviors that frequently prevents them from being able to be adopted. In a no kill shelter, they begin to relax and heal their hearts and souls as well as physical injuries when in a facility such as yours. Thank you so much!
You guys are doing a great job taking care of Caitlyn. I hope the Charleston Police find who did the damage to her and get what they deserve. Keep us updated on her condition and I hope she gets a loving home
I have never been to your facility but I am amazed and overjoyed to see the great work you are doing, by people sharing these updates on facebook. Please continue to help these wonderful animals and be their voice! #GodBlessCaitlyn I am so happy she is healing quickly, she is such a beautiful fur-baby!
I am following Caitlins story from Michigan. You are doing such a wonderful job! I have two rescue dogs, both had been severely mistreated, and i know how hard it is to get them back on there paws. Please keep up the great work! Those dogs need all the love ,and help they can get.
Really amazing work you guys and gals have been doing! Most impressed by the dedication and the creation of the No Kill Policy!!! Thank you so much for caring for and about animals, who were left, abandoned, abused etc.
Hat's off, to you all!!!!
Charleston Animal Society has the highest regard for the welfare of animals! This latest instance with Caitlyn has brought thousands of people around the world together in tearful joy! Each day there is an update and improvement in her welfare! To the wonderful vets on your team, to all the volunteers and staff, a huge THANK YOU!!!! Please keep up the good work!
This is an amazing charity that I have had the honor to work with! I am proud to help foster animals through Charleston Animal society!
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I have been fostering kittens through the Charleston Animal society for well over a year now so I am there almost every week and I continue to be blown away at the kind caring staff! The place is so clean and well organized and they truly care about these animals! I would recommend them to anyone! We ended up adopting one of our foster kitten and just love her to death! We continue foster kittens and recommend them to people all the time!! What a great , much needed, organization!
The work these people have done to save innocent animals is nothing short of heroic. Bless them all.
Angels that bring healing and joy to animals that have no hope. Thankful for all they do. Please donate!
I have read with great interest Caitlyn's story from here in Suffolk, England. I am in awe of the dedication you guys have in helping vulnerable animals. I take my hat off to you all!
I am Mum to 4 ex-puppy farm breeding girlies who are now living the kind of life all dogs should expect. We have some great Shelters in UK who do what they can but we are let down by our RSPCA who under-perform & are governed by money!
I am sure Karma will visit each & every one of you for having such good hearts!
Namaste
What more can I say but thank You for the animals and especially Thank You for setting an example for other animal shelters. No Kill for all Shelters!
IN JUST THE CARE AND TREATMENT CHARLESTON ANIMAL SOCIETY HAS SHOW TO THE PRECIOUS GIRL CAITLYN, THE SWEET FEMALE MIX BREED THAT WAS ABUSED WITH ELECTRICAL TAPE AROUND HER MUZZLE, IN JUST THIS ONE INSTANCE ONE CAN SEE THAT THEY ARE A CARING LOVING WONDERFUL ORGANIZATION WITH A WHOLE LOT OF ANGELS WORKING THERE. THANK YOU CHARLESTON ANIMAL SOCIETY FOR LOVING THESE PRECIOUS SOULS AND BEING THEIR VOICE. BLESS YOU ALL
What a great group of dedicated individuals. Can not say enough about the level of care they provide to those animals in need. Well done!!!!
This is an awesome group of caring people who obviously go above and beyond for those who have no voice. God Bless all of them
Thank you Charleston Animal Society for taking care of animals that would otherwise be forgotten! I adopted my best buddy Rambo, a Staffordshire Terrier, four years ago from you guys and I gladly volunteer and donate to the organization every chance I get. I feel like I've won the lottery every day when I wake up to my beautiful boy. A million "thank yous" will never express my gratitude for the difference he's made in my life .
Such an amazing group of people that love animals as much as I do. Thank you guys so much for all the love you show these fur babies. What you do really does make a huge difference for these babies. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.
I pray that GOD has a nice Forever Home for this beautiful girl who was mistreated so terribly. I know that The Charleston Animal Society is doing all they possible can to provide a perfect place for her.
My heart sinks when I hear of such terrible treatment of animals,your work shows that there are good people out there God bless you in your work
Charleston Animal Socirtyis a fabulous organization!! They work miracles like Caitlyn every day! I love them!!!
Charleston Animal Society is an awesome non-profit giving animals chances to find their forever homes and doing such great work to help in the healing of injured animals. My heart was so touched by Caitlyn and Louis 's stories. A wonderful place filled with amazing people.
We recently adopted our first cat from CAS and everything went so smooth! We're already ready to come back and adopt more sweet angels! Thank you for the amazing work you do!
You all are Herod in my books! You have gone beyond to save Caitlyn and other animals! We need more organizations like this who gives the love and care to these helpless annals that can't help themselves! Thank you you are so passionate caring and have given these animals a second chance! Keep up the great work
Thank you for all that you do to save the lives of the homeless and helpless animals. Together we'll become a no kill nation. Never lose the passion :)
CAS goes above and beyond to help animals. Can't write enough about the selflessness of this group of people and the value they bring to the immediate and surrounding community. Wish more people cared as much as they do, and did something about it!
What an incredible organization that has true heros on the front line fight against animal abuse and neglect.
Cas has done so many amazing things with animals that would not have been given a chance in other shelters! I adopted my pitbull from there and continue to donate when I can!
God Bless you for the care and commitment you have made to bring Caitlyn back to good health! It breaks my heart to think of the pain and agony she endured. It warms my heart to know there are organizations like yours to take care of animals in need like Caitlyn!
I am delighted that you save animals instead of euthanizing them unnecessarily. Thank you Charleston Animal Society for your open hearts and compassion for animals who have no voice.
Amazing staff, works around the clock, to help these, "helpless" creatures, NO KILL shelter, God Bless, each & everyone of y'all. I have made a donation, my crew of 6, has given their treat money! =)
NO KILL is the only way. Thank you for what you do to save these animals and give them loving homes. GODBLESS YOU!!!!
I am so glad you guys were there to help that poor little girl and thank you to the vet who helped her , you guys ard the best. I am so very proud of what you all do , and when i move to south Carolina I will making it my mission to help all animals. No matter what I have to do.thanks again you are all great.
You are all amazing! What you have done for this poor pit is Incredible .So glad you are a no kill shelter. We are not so lucky here in Florida. I can't commend you enough. Keep up the good work.
I have adopted from them and I have(unfortunately)had to retrieve my runaways from them. They have always been very helpful kind and caring. I am not sure what our community would do without such a great group.
You guys ROCK!!!! Your AWESOME!!!❤️❤️❤️ please keep up the good work !! And spread the word about animal cruelty!!!
Amazing work from the kindest of people! It is very obvious that these precious animals are given every chance for a happy and healthy life! Thank you so much for you tireless work!
A very caring, friendly and passionate group of people at Charleston Animal Society. Thank you for all you do and continue to do!
You guys have done great work saving these precious babies, keep up the good work you do, it is appreciated. And special thanks for the no kill shelter, we need some of those where I live.
I'm a follower from the UK and I have a tremendous amount of respect and compassion for these guys. I've been following the story of Catlin and I'm overwhelmed with how much effort and love goes into all the dogs you help. Well done all of you.
God bless you all for the work you do! Thank you for updating about Caitlyn! I wait eagerly everyday to see how she is doing. I know she is only a tiny spec in the great cause for abused animals. The devil is all around to search seek and destroy. You all are my comfort and Gods great legs hands and minds. Keep up the good work. You have a gift!
Amazing group that goes above and beyond the call of duty. Time, and compassion for all critters and fur babies.
Just looks at the wonderful work they are doing. Loving,caring, and support.
Great for them and all in their care.
This shelter really goes far and beyond with everything they do for these animals. They are truly dedicated to make this community a no kill community. They have made such a big difference!
thank you for caring. Thank you for helping dogs other places would pts. Thank you for loving each one
I have been volunteering at the shelter for over four years and have enjoyed every minute of it. I have learned more information while volunteerting on the medical care of animals then I ever thought possible. All the staff members are so friendly and helpful in answering customer's quesions. It is great to see the community step forward and help the animals in finding new home and just by fostering. I also enjoy doing the off shelter adoption events and spreading the word out to the community about what the shelter does.
I just recently started volunteering here when I had to move to SC for the navy and I LOVE it. It's so great to work with all the animals. All the animals are treated so well and the shelter works so hard to adopt as many animals as possible. They're extremely clean and the staff is so sweet and helpful. Love volunteering here!
I have been volunteering at CAS for over two years. It is a modern, clean facility where both staff and volunteers take their mission of caring for the animals seriously. They go way beyond keeping the animals fed, watered, and the areas clean. They also make sure they have good human interaction and enrichment to keep them busy. All volunteers must take a 3 hour class on dog interaction which promotes safety. Beyond this, they operate bark camp at the shelter for middle school children during the summer, and a summer program for older children who may be interested in a veterinary career. Last year they also developed a training class that was attended by people from South Carolina as well as other states and provided enough training materials so that the attendees could go back and give this class to others. CAS is recognized nationally as one of the best organizations of its kind. Best of all, I found my constant companion, a two year old miniature poodle there!
If you would like a truly rewarding experience, try volunteering at the CAS. The programs, staff, and fellow volunteers are outstanding. I assist in the veterinary dept by caring for the patients (dogs, cats, puppies, and kittens, and even one rabbit) after their spay or neuter surgery. The vets and vet techs are excellent technically but also show great care and concern for any medical issue they may find. I've observed full amputations, eye surgery, hernia repairs, and many other procedures provided to strays or unwanted pets which then led to a healthy life and adoption. This is a very deserving nonprofit with all the right goals.
I began volunteering for CAS last October after reading about the progress CAS had made toward becoming a "No Kill" shelter. I have participated in several events: dog walking at the shelter, sharing hurricane preparedness information with the community, an outreach to the North Charleston community with free rabies and distemper vaccines and the Summer Slam.
The staff has been most kind and helpful to me. Their dedication to the homeless animals is amazing. The remain courteous and cheerful no matter how busy they are. And I have thoroughly enjoyed interacting with the volunteers.
I can't enter high kill shelters. It is too depressing. No so at CAS. There is an air of optimism here even though there is much work left to do. CAS does an amazing job for the Charleston, SC community.
The best part of my day is volunteering at CAS! The facility is far superior than any other I've seen, with great staff. Just the fact that CAS is no kill makes me want to support them. They care for and adopt out THOUSANDS of animals per year. Even as a volunteer, you have to go through orientation and an interview. I can't even begin to express how much I believe in Charleston Animal Society!
I have only been volunteering at Charleston Animal Society for a short while, but I cannot begin to express how many hard working and compassionate staff members I have met. I have volunteered at other shelters and this one exceeds every one in so many ways. It is the highlight of my week to help out there and see these precious babies get adopted because of all of the hard work everyone is doing. They all deserve a chance!
Working as a Voleenteer (Foster Parent) at the Charleston Animal Society has been one of the most rewarding things I have ever done. There is no doubt that animals come first at this shelter. The amazing group of people that work here go far beyond any expectations in helping out in any way possible to save lives and make a no kill shelter possible. After over a year of being a foster voleenteer I have noticed the staff listens openly to any suggestions, go to any extreme to help provide answers, and will even cry along beside you if you lose a pet. I have never seen a place more dedicated and loving to each animal in the community. It is an honor to be apart of CAS and watch the amazing effect it has had on all the animals that come through the door. If you want to help just one rescue out this is the place to come to...it will not only save that animal but make it a continued reality that all animals are worth saving!
I have been involved with several nonprofits in my life and have never seen one with the dedication to mission and outcomes as the Charleston Animal Society. Their determination to become a No Kill shelter is amazing. They have an amazing presence in our community and deserve every recognition available, not only for the services they provide to deserving pets, but as an example to all nonprofits, whatever their mission.
The Charleston Animal Society is an example of what can be done by a devoted group of people with a mission! As a long time pet owner, I love being able to help CAS in any way I can! I walk dogs, bring supplies and spread the word of the great work being done at the CAS. I hope more shelters around the country join the No Kill way, it can be done!
I have been volunteering with the Charleston Animal Society and coming here is always the highlight of my week. I love seeing the dogs light up with joy when the volunteers interact with them. I love how every day the dogs get one one one interaction with a volunteer. Our volunteers go outside with them and play fetch. I love how this organization takes the time to train these dogs. I was also very pleased that they treated my dog for heartworms before i adopted her. I was very impressed by how put together this organization is. When they make you go through the process of adopting one of their pets, they make sure you have a vet. These workers do a great job of caring for their pets before and after they get adopted. The thing i admire most about this organization is that they keep a room stocked of pet food, and if any pet owner is having trouble financially and can't pay for pet food they will give you a free bag of dog/cat food. I can't stress enough the amount of love these volunteers give towards these dogs.
I don't understand why all animal shelters and/or societies don't emulate the Charleston Animal Society. It would not only be great for all the animals, but it would be great for the psyche of all the humans involved.
The Charleston Animal Society is one of the most unique and rewarding experience I have ever had the pleasure to be a part! They serve such a large area of our community and impact the lives of some many animals and families. They are really the front-runner in making our area a NO KILL COMMUNITY and are extremely dedicated to helping each and every animal they bring in. I am so excited and honored to be a part of such a great organization! :)
Charleston Animal Society is one of the most progressive animal rescue organizations in the South and the country. Their 9-point program to keep Charleston a No Kill Community is inspiring. Some of these programs are the free-roaming cats initiative, their high volume (12,000/yr) spay-neuter clinic, and their 500-member foster network across Charleston County. All of the programs are research-based programs that have been proven to save animal lives. Amazing group!
FREE ROAMING CAT INITIATIVE BOTH SUCCESSFUL AND MISUNDERSTOOD
Charleston County, including the City of Charleston, has one of the most successful free-roaming cat initiatives in the world. This effort was launched in 2010 and implemented in 2010 by Charleston Animal Society and other animal organizations comprising Humane Net, a coalition of animal organizations in the lowcountry.
The purpose was to reduce the population of free roaming cats because the past strategy of trapping-and-euthanizing simply was not working as the population continued to increase each year. After approximately 18 months of implementation and widespread community support, the growing population of stray animals began to decline for the first time.
Charleston County is one of only a handful of communities nationwide that is effectively managing down the population of free roaming cats. Communities from across the nation and oversees, including France and Australia, have reached out to us about our success in decreasing the intake of cats.
The Free-Roaming Cat Initiative is based on the Jacksonville, Florida’s Feral Freedom Program, a nationally recognized model, and is comprised of 6 strategies ranging from trap-vaccinate-alter-return (TVAR) to adoption and fostering. It is also based on the most recent scientific research and best practices in the animal welfare field forwarded by the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine Maddie’s Shelter Medicine Program, University of Califorina Davis School of Veterinary Medicine Koret Shelter Medicine Program, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), PetSmart Charities and others. We are in touch with veterinarians and scientists from these organizations on a regular basis. Most importantly, we have begun to solve the problem of free roaming cats by reducing their population, but we have a long way to go as a community.
Since 2009, the baseline year for the Initiative, we realized a 15% decrease in the number of feline kittens and neonates through 2012, in spite of activities to increase the trapping of free roaming cats. When attempting to manage the population of a species, this achievement was remarkable.
The Free Roaming Cat Initiative is a sterilization intervention and is not intended to treat other issues that might exist, unless they are life-threatening. That is all. If a free-roaming cat is in stable health and is sustaining itself, meaning finding food and shelter, it is sterilized, vaccinated, ear-tipped and micro-chipped, then returned the next day to the neighborhood where it was trapped. It will not be able to reproduce and the population of a colony, if he belongs to one, eventually declines.
Prior to this strategy, many citizens were feeding community cats but were not willing to trap them or have them trapped for fear that the cats would be euthanized, thus, this contributed to a paradigm of incubation and propagation of free-roaming unsterilized and unvaccinated cats. Now that citizens know free-roaming cats in stable health will be returned to the neighborhood, they are participating in great numbers.
The Initiative is working.
Cats have been living successfully alongside human society for over 10,000 years and may be the only species to domesticate themselves. They are also the most popular pet in the United States. Making cats indoor pets became popular in the U.S. post- World War II, with the advent of cat litter. This is primarily a practice in the U.S. That said, the vast majority of cats, including in our community, spend time outdoors, many of which are considered “neighborhood” or “community” cats. Between 74 and 86 million pet are living among U.S. households. Of those, 80% - 85% are sterilized, which is a very successful rate. However, there are approximately 90 million “un-owned” or free-roaming community cats, of which, only 2% are sterilized. In Charleston County, there are between 24,344 and 60,860 of these cats. There are between 12,652 and 31,630 in Berkeley County and between 9,530 and 23,824 in Dorchester County.
Attempting to decrease the number of free roaming cats in addition to owned cats who are given up is extremely challenging.
Common assumptions about animal rescue organizations who shelter cats are:
• Owners will come looking for them.
• Animals could be adopted if not reclaimed.
• Spay/neuter efforts targeted at owners and pets will reduce intake.
Reunite cats with owners?
• Only 2% of cats are reclaimed nationally. In Charleston County, our reclaim rate is over twice the national average but still only 5%.
• Cats or almost 3 times as likely as dogs to “disappear” from households.
• Cats are more than 13 times more likely to return home by non-shelter than by shelter means.
• 66% of lost cats found because they return home. Only 7% found via call or visit to shelter.
Where do people get their cats?
• 41% Friend or relative
• 34% Stray
• 29% Adopted
Charleston Animal Society is the leading adoption provider, and spay/neuter provider, in South Carolina, and is projected to adopt out between 4,500 and 5,000 animals this year alone, of which, 2,500 are cats. Currently, the Animal Society is caring for nearly 500 cats in its sheltering system, of which, almost 300 are being cared for in the homes of foster volunteers, a remarkable group of guardian angels. However, most folks obtain their cats elsewhere, with the high probability that most cats wonder into people’s yards and are cared for by a family or neighborhood. We also know that only 25% of cat owners or caretakers visit their vet annually versus 63% of dog owners.
When free-roaming cats, often called feral cats, are trapped and enter a spay/neuter clinic, they are frightened and, most of the time, exhibit aggressive behaviors because they are out of their natural surroundings. With the thousands of cats that enter the Animal Society each year, it is not possible to hold the cats to see if they might calm down and move toward the adoption path.
There is no standard definition or determination of what a “feral cat” is and the animal welfare sector is moving away from using that term, opting instead for free-roaming cat, whether it is feral, stray, an outdoor pet, or simply a community or neighborhood cat. Many perceived “feral” cats are not “wild or crazy.” In fact, there are several colonies of free roaming cats on the Animal Society campus, comprised of cats displaying a variety of behaviors, some of which will now approach humans with ease.
Ear-tipping is a standard identification of free-roaming cats so that they are easily recognizable from a distance, such as across the street in the dark hours of the early morning when most trapping takes place. Charleston Animal Society is a Humane Alliance certified spay/neuter clinic and offers a teaching/internship program to veterinary students from across the U.S. and overseas. Medical protocols and standards as published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association (JAVMA) are closely followed and taught to veterinary students in our internship program.
When we spay or neuter a free roaming cat, we keep it overnight prior to releasing it to ensure it is in stable health. Free-roaming cats are fine outdoors. The heat is not going to adversely affect them. They, like humans, remove themselves from it. In fact, they are thriving in Charleston.
The Jacksonville Feral Freedom Program works closely with the City of Jacksonville’s Animal Care and Protective Services and has been returning free-roaming cats, both sociable and not, to where they were trapped with success for some time now. Although not the case in Charleston, most likely, the local strategy will move in that direction.
As is the case across the country, free-roaming cats brought into the community’s sheltering system have a higher likelihood of reuniting with whomever is providing their sustenance by returning them to that area.
Our efforts to reduce the population of free-roaming cats in Charleston County are working and is a model for other communities, and, it saves taxpayer dollars. We’re grateful for this incredible community that came together in 2010 to launch this innovative approach at solving a community problem. Our community leaders, elected officials, animal organizations, animal control agencies and citizens have worked hard at addressing the issue of free-roaming cats in an effective way based on research and best practices.
Most importantly, we’re grateful for the hundreds of foster volunteers who nurture the neonates and juvenile kittens, along with other special needs animals, until they are ready for homes. In addition, we are especially grateful for citizens who offer a home for animals.
Indeed, this is a very special community and Charleston Animal Society is a very special organization.
Sincerely, Joe Elmore, CAWA, CFRE, PHR
Chief Executive Officer
Lucy Fuller, DVM
Director of Public Health & Spay/Neuter Initiatives
Previous Stories
For those of you who like this shelter, what do you have to say about the reviews from others that say the older animals are transported and released in the woods.
I'm not sure what rating to give
jelmore 10/27/2013
FREE ROAMING CAT INITIATIVE BOTH SUCCESSFUL AND MISUNDERSTOOD Charleston County, including the City of Charleston, has one of the most successful free-roaming cat initiatives in the world. This effort was launched in 2010 and implemented in 2010 by Charleston Animal Society and other animal organizations comprising Humane Net, a coalition of animal organizations in the lowcountry. The purpose was to reduce the population of free roaming cats because the past strategy of trapping-and-euthanizing simply was not working as the population continued to increase each year. After approximately 18 months of implementation and widespread community support, the growing population of stray animals began to decline for the first time. Charleston County is one of only a handful of communities nationwide that is effectively managing down the population of free roaming cats. Communities from across the nation and oversees, including France and Australia, have reached out to us about our success in decreasing the intake of cats. The Free-Roaming Cat Initiative is based on the Jacksonville, Florida’s Feral Freedom Program, a nationally recognized model, and is comprised of 6 strategies ranging from trap-vaccinate-alter-return (TVAR) to adoption and fostering. It is also based on the most recent scientific research and best practices in the animal welfare field forwarded by the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine Maddie’s Shelter Medicine Program, University of Califorina Davis School of Veterinary Medicine Koret Shelter Medicine Program, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), PetSmart Charities and others. We are in touch with veterinarians and scientists from these organizations on a regular basis. Most importantly, we have begun to solve the problem of free roaming cats by reducing their population, but we have a long way to go as a community. Since 2009, the baseline year for the Initiative, we realized a 15% decrease in the number of feline kittens and neonates through 2012, in spite of activities to increase the trapping of free roaming cats. When attempting to manage the population of a species, this achievement was remarkable. The Free Roaming Cat Initiative is a sterilization intervention and is not intended to treat other issues that might exist, unless they are life-threatening. That is all. If a free-roaming cat is in stable health and is sustaining itself, meaning finding food and shelter, it is sterilized, vaccinated, ear-tipped and micro-chipped, then returned the next day to the neighborhood where it was trapped. It will not be able to reproduce and the population of a colony, if he belongs to one, eventually declines. Prior to this strategy, many citizens were feeding community cats but were not willing to trap them or have them trapped for fear that the cats would be euthanized, thus, this contributed to a paradigm of incubation and propagation of free-roaming unsterilized and unvaccinated cats. Now that citizens know free-roaming cats in stable health will be returned to the neighborhood, they are participating in great numbers. The Initiative is working. Cats have been living successfully alongside human society for over 10,000 years and may be the only species to domesticate themselves. They are also the most popular pet in the United States. Making cats indoor pets became popular in the U.S. post- World War II, with the advent of cat litter. This is primarily a practice in the U.S. That said, the vast majority of cats, including in our community, spend time outdoors, many of which are considered “neighborhood” or “community” cats. Between 74 and 86 million pet are living among U.S. households. Of those, 80% - 85% are sterilized, which is a very successful rate. However, there are approximately 90 million “un-owned” or free-roaming community cats, of which, only 2% are sterilized. In Charleston County, there are between 24,344 and 60,860 of these cats. There are between 12,652 and 31,630 in Berkeley County and between 9,530 and 23,824 in Dorchester County. Attempting to decrease the number of free roaming cats in addition to owned cats who are given up is extremely challenging. Common assumptions about animal rescue organizations who shelter cats are: • Owners will come looking for them. • Animals could be adopted if not reclaimed. • Spay/neuter efforts targeted at owners and pets will reduce intake. Reunite cats with owners? • Only 2% of cats are reclaimed nationally. In Charleston County, our reclaim rate is over twice the national average but still only 5%. • Cats or almost 3 times as likely as dogs to “disappear” from households. • Cats are more than 13 times more likely to return home by non-shelter than by shelter means. • 66% of lost cats found because they return home. Only 7% found via call or visit to shelter. Where do people get their cats? • 41% Friend or relative • 34% Stray • 29% Adopted Charleston Animal Society is the leading adoption provider, and spay/neuter provider, in South Carolina, and is projected to adopt out between 4,500 and 5,000 animals this year alone, of which, 2,500 are cats. Currently, the Animal Society is caring for nearly 500 cats in its sheltering system, of which, almost 300 are being cared for in the homes of foster volunteers, a remarkable group of guardian angels. However, most folks obtain their cats elsewhere, with the high probability that most cats wonder into people’s yards and are cared for by a family or neighborhood. We also know that only 25% of cat owners or caretakers visit their vet annually versus 63% of dog owners. When free-roaming cats, often called feral cats, are trapped and enter a spay/neuter clinic, they are frightened and, most of the time, exhibit aggressive behaviors because they are out of their natural surroundings. With the thousands of cats that enter the Animal Society each year, it is not possible to hold the cats to see if they might calm down and move toward the adoption path. There is no standard definition or determination of what a “feral cat” is and the animal welfare sector is moving away from using that term, opting instead for free-roaming cat, whether it is feral, stray, an outdoor pet, or simply a community or neighborhood cat. Many perceived “feral” cats are not “wild or crazy.” In fact, there are several colonies of free roaming cats on the Animal Society campus, comprised of cats displaying a variety of behaviors, some of which will now approach humans with ease. Ear-tipping is a standard identification of free-roaming cats so that they are easily recognizable from a distance, such as across the street in the dark hours of the early morning when most trapping takes place. Charleston Animal Society is a Humane Alliance certified spay/neuter clinic and offers a teaching/internship program to veterinary students from across the U.S. and overseas. Medical protocols and standards as published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association (JAVMA) are closely followed and taught to veterinary students in our internship program. When we spay or neuter a free roaming cat, we keep it overnight prior to releasing it to ensure it is in stable health. Free-roaming cats are fine outdoors. The heat is not going to adversely affect them. They, like humans, remove themselves from it. In fact, they are thriving in Charleston. The Jacksonville Feral Freedom Program works closely with the City of Jacksonville’s Animal Care and Protective Services and has been returning free-roaming cats, both sociable and not, to where they were trapped with success for some time now. Although not the case in Charleston, most likely, the local strategy will move in that direction. As is the case across the country, free-roaming cats brought into the community’s sheltering system have a higher likelihood of reuniting with whomever is providing their sustenance by returning them to that area. Our efforts to reduce the population of free-roaming cats in Charleston County are working and is a model for other communities, and, it saves taxpayer dollars. We’re grateful for this incredible community that came together in 2010 to launch this innovative approach at solving a community problem. Our community leaders, elected officials, animal organizations, animal control agencies and citizens have worked hard at addressing the issue of free-roaming cats in an effective way based on research and best practices. Most importantly, we’re grateful for the hundreds of foster volunteers who nurture the neonates and juvenile kittens, along with other special needs animals, until they are ready for homes. In addition, we are especially grateful for citizens who offer a home for animals. Indeed, this is a very special community and Charleston Animal Society is a very special organization. Sincerely, Joe Elmore, CAWA, CFRE, PHR Chief Executive Officer Lucy Fuller, DVM Director of Public Health & Spay/Neuter Initiatives
This week, I discovered that this facility dumps old animals out in the woods, rather than take care of the sick ones. I took a sick animal to the facility twice. The first time, the animal mysteriously returned to my house. I was confused so I took him back and dropped him off again. I then discovered the true owner of the animal, and attempted to get him back from the facility, but several employees gave me the run around and told me that the animal was being returned to my home. I waited all day, and the animal never arrived. I eventually had to contact the Director and go meet her and the vet in person, still trying to find out what happened to this animal. The Director was quite rude and threw her pen and walked out of the meeting. The vet confided in me that they "TNR" older animals that aren't considered adoptable. TNR means transport and release. And the vet said that the volunteer driver dropped the cat off in a wooded area near my home. I am completely disgusted and we still have not been able to find this poor animal.
A great organization that is doing so much good in the greater Charleston area. Adoption, education, services. They're truly making a difference for the animals!
Charleston Animal Society is an wonderful organization with great leadership and staff. They do amazing things for the animals in the Charleston community, and my experience as a volunteer was incredibly rewarding.
The Charleston Animal Society is a wonderful non-profit organization that does great things for the Charleston community.
CAS's No Kill Charleston campaign is aimed at cutting down the amount of unwanted, homeless animals in our area. CAS has taken the first step in truly rescuing helpless, homeless creatures and never turns away an animal in need - no matter how old or how sick.
CAS's staff and volunteers are equally as wonderful as the shelter. Everyone walks with a mission to save these animals. They are passionate, driven and deeply connected to each animal that walks in and out of their doors.
The Charleston Animal Society is a spectacular example of the goodness and sincerity Charleston has to offer. It was a pleasure working alongside both animals and people, and an experience I value tremendously.
If I knew where to start, you would have a book written here. I was the first intern at CAS, three years ago. It was by far the most rewarding, and memorable experience of my life. The people, the animals, the education, is top notch. The facility itself is beautiful and perfect for what all the provide. I go back to visit every time I am in Charleston and when I walk in the front doors, I'm home.
Kimberly Evans
These folks do wonderful work and have a fantastic staff, from leadership at the top to the folks who help with walking the dogs, etc. Their commitment and dedication to finding every healthy, viable animal a forever home is second to none.
The minute you pull into the parking lot at Charleston Animal Society, you can tell it is a special place. It is the most fun, uplifting and hopeful animal rescue I've ever seen. They clearly love animals and people and want to bring them together. The cat area had fun sparkly toys for them to play with and a fun way for potential adopters to interact with them. The dog area wasn't just rows of depressing jail cells but comfortable pens for each dog in a calming layout.
I looked at a few dogs and the volunteers and staff were honest about how they thought each one would do in my home, based on my lifestyle and personality. I ended up with the greatest, cuddliest rescue hound I could ever hope for and the entire process was awesome. I had questions about the heartworm treatment they gave him a few weeks after I brought him home, and the vet who did the procedure personally talked to me and explained things clearly and patiently.
And finally, firefighters with puppies for a fundraiser calendar? I bought two and already have Christmas gift plans for five more. This is the best animal rescue EVER!
Berlins Restaurant Supply wanted to share with you our recent experience with the Charleston Animal Society and their awesome staff. On Valentines Day a young pit-bull wandered into our warehouse; she had been hit by a car and was bleeding bad. Two members of our staff took her to the Charleston Animal Society for help and she was immediately seen by a vet for urgent care. During the dog’s five day hold to see if she had an owner, she underwent surgery to clean and close her wounds, was fixed, micro chipped, and all of her shots updated. At the end of her five day hold, the staff from Berlins picked her up to begin her foster care so she could begin to heal in a caring environment. To our surprise we were never given a bill for all her medical treatment she received. Ginger, as she is now called, quickly became a favorite to all the staff and loved by everyone. We would like to say a special THANK you to the Animal Society for all of their awesome and selfless work. Ginger was adopted by an employee at Berlins and now lives in a very happy family home. Thank you Charleston Animal Society
I've been volunteering with CAS 8+ years, from playing with the dogs, helping at events, fostering and now as one of their Adoption Ambassadors, a wonderful program where the foster finds a home for the pet. This is a great organization with an amazing staff, volunteers and facility. Their initiative to be a No Kill facility is an incredible huge undertaking. CAS needs ongoing donations to achieve this. I'm proud to be part of the best animal shelter!
How we treat our animals speaks loudly as to the state of our society and culture.
Do we want to be remembered as the disposable era?
These are God's creatures that give us love, are great companions, comfort the sick,
guide those who need help, and serve our military soldiers in combat
and first responder rescue teams in a disaster like 9/11.
Please help this great organization take care of abused and neglected animals that deserve our love!
My family and I are an owner of a rescue dog for over 7 yrs now..he is the best dog in the world and we love him to pieces...I support all efforts to find loving homes to animals in need and to preserve life...help by rating our own Charleston Animal Society and lets get more NO KILL shelters in our area!...
I Volunteered at Charleston Animal Society for several years, and I have met some really great and dedicated people there. No act goes undone. No animal is never ignored and no visitor goes in without being greeted by someone there. They offer great services to the community, and never turns anyone away without reaching out to all resources. I have now moved away, and no longer able to Volunteer my time, but I do still drop off needed things when I can and I am in town. I have also used their services as well for my fur baby, and I now when I take her there I can depend on them to take care of her as if she was their own. Thank you CAS for being a great place to save four legged lives, and in return saving others because sometimes it takes a wet cold nose to warm a heart.
I am an adopter and a foster family. I've never had anything but good experiences. The staff is amazing! The volunteers are fabulous! The events are always fun! I feel very special to be able to tell people about my experiences that aren't familiar with CAS. They all think it's so awesome that CAS is going no kill, and that most anyone can volunteer or foster the animals!! People from all over the world, and all over the country are hearing about the great deeds done at CAS!!! My life is so much better for the adorable and loving pets I have adopted from CAS and the ones I have fostered for someone else to love!!!
I have volunteered at CAS since March, 2013. It was a requirement for my school program. Now it is a requirement for my sanity. Being able to go in and know I am helping even in a small way boosts my spirits. I have taken vacation from work to go to CAS earlier than scheduled just to defrag from the week. When I see cats with their new families on FB and know I helped put them together, I feel great. I tell everyone I can to come help in any capacity they are able.
My experiences with CAS have been nothing less than phenomenal! In 2009 I adopted a male 9mo kitten who has been a silly & entertaining family member. In 2012 I took my double-cryptorchid puppy to them for neutering. They did the surgery for a mere fraction of the cost of local vets and he came home happy and comfortable enough to not need more than one dose of pain meds. Staff is always friendly and they are relentless in their mission to help animals and educate the public.
I can't say enough about CAS! We adopted our two beloved cats & our sweet dog from them. They have made our lives more fun & filled our hearts with love. I will never go anywhere else for a pet. And the best part is we saved 3 lives!
We have fostered many puppies and kittens for CAS. Many people ask us how we can give them back. We see it as an opportunity to give these animals a good start towards living with a family and a chance to avoid the stress of the shelter environment while they grow or get well. CAS is an amazing facility that treats it's volunteers and sheltered animals alike with love and respect.
I started volunteering here while I was searching for a job. I worked with the small kittens and Kristin. I looked forward to going in and helping out! The best part was the feeling of love and fulfillment I felt everyday I was there. I miss being able to go in whenever I want now that I have a job, but the happiness I feel when i can make it in on a weekend is extraordinary. This is such a great place to volunteer and fine your next furry family member!
We have fostered kittens and adopted from CAS. They really do a great job of working tirelessly to save every animal and to get them adopted. They embarked on No Kill Charleston, an ambitious endeavor that has been wonderfully received in our community. It is a model for all cities. My only criticism is that they do not have a good process at the front desk and it is often hard to navigate through so it takes some patience.
My first experience with CAS was when I adopted my cat Ron Weasley from them. I found their facility pleasant and clean. They are very organized, knowledgeable and most importantly take EXCELLENT care of the animals in their care. Ron was clean, healthy, had all his vaccinations, no fleas, no worms, he was neutered and micro-chipped. My second experience with CAS was when I became a foster parent to some very little kittens. They made sure I knew exactly how to care for them, took a lot of time with me, and supplied me with everything I needed to care for the wee little creatures. When I was concerned about one kitten, they had me come right in for a vet check. Their staff is top notch, the facility is top notch, and they all work very hard for the animals. You can't go wrong here.
My wife got sick in 2010 and had to give up her passion of nursing. Susan was and really still is one of the best nurses in the area. She graduated at the top of her class and worked from Orangeburg to Mt. Pleasant. We read and knew about how pets make life better for everyone, especially people that suffer from medical situations. We adopted 2 kittens from here. They were brothers and we searched for over 4 months until we found then Cartman and Butters. They are now known as Rebel and Rascal and do they fit the names. My wife loves these boys almost more than life itself. I do too. They have brought a much needed bright spot to my wife's life. The recently said that she would not know what to do if something happened to either one of them. Thank you for letting us grow our family. They are the most loving and best 2 kittens and are growing fast.
Our first experience with CAS was when we adopted our black lab as an 8 week old puppy. He has brought us 9 years of companionship. About two years ago, we adopted a labradoodle. We adopted a dog for my brother in law who describes his dog as, "His best friend and the best gift he has ever been given." We have also adopted a guinea pig from CAS. The shelter is very clean and the staff is friendly. Thanks to CAS and their efforts, we have a houseful full of animals and so much love from them and for them!! Keep up the great work.
2 years ago I walked into CAS and was impressed by not only the facility but the caring nature of the staff. While the first few times I did not find the pet was that meant for me, each time they encouraged me to come back. A few months later I found my soul pet in a black lab whom I have since named, "Cooper." What impressed me most was the fact that when I adopted him they included his first vet visit. The staff was amazing and shared in my excitement.
Since then I have become a big supporter of CAS. They do so much for homeless pets. They would rather give them away to a family that will love them and may not be able to afford a high adoption fee than put them down. They do the best they can to get animals adopted. They are constantly out in the community with adoptable pets. I can't go to a large community event without running into them.
My dog Cooper is such a big part of my life. I simply can't imagine not coming home to his waging tail. He was heart worm positive when they found him wondering the street of John's Island. Most places would have not let Cooper be adopted. I am so unbelievably happy they put the time and money in him so he could come and live a happy, spoiled life with me.
I am so thankful for all that the Charleston Animal Society does for our community, and for the love of animals. My daughter donates to them and each time she does they are always so gracious, and make her feel so special for what she does. I am so happy they are in our community.
Our beloved Lab, Lizzie, was prone to wander if we were not vigilant though we lived most of the time in a remote location, on deep water where she loved to swim. When there we wanted her to roam on her 30+ acres and enjoy the life we wanted for her. But once her roamings did not produce an immediate return. A wonderful soul picked her up (not noticing her collar with our phone number on it??) and too her all the way to the Charleston Animal Shelter. She was chipped and the collar had identification so the CAS immediately called us to retrieve her. We were so excited to see our loved baby and they were ecstatic to see our mutual love. They are great.
The caring staff and amazing volunteers of Charleston Animal Society make it possible to find the love of your life. I adopted my best buddy, Trip, from CAS in June 2010. He's a big boy and although he was about 8-9 months old when we met, he didn't have many puppy manners but he clearly had heart. We've worked on the manners thing and today he is one of the very best dogs I have ever known and I've known some canine angels. Adopting the lost, the rejected, or the unlucky is one of the very best things you can do in life.
My family and I have adopted 2 cats through CAS and I love them! They are an awesome organization and do wonderful work. Our latest adoption from a kitten we fostered for them. She was so pretty and loving we just couldn't give her up. CAS made sure we had all the proper knowledge before bringing her home. We have also used their Spay and Neuter services to have our male cat neutered. CAS goes above and beyond what any other animal service does in the Low Country. Living in Berkeley County, I truly wish they too had a program like CAS. All the other ASPCA's can certainly learn a thing or two from them.
My old kitty died after 17 years as a family member. She had become fairly crabby at the end, and sadly non-affectionate, yet when she died, we were bereft.
We went to Charleston Animal Shelter and found the most beautiful and wonderful cat in the world. As an "adult", the fee was waived, but we made the donation anyway - of course! You do such great work.
We named our new kitty CASSIE (Charleston Animal Shelter), and she brings joy to us every day. Strangely enough, she was placed for adoption TWICE and returned, as well as having been dropped off in the first place! It was the other families' loss. Our beautiful medium haired tortie couldn't be a more charming, playful and loving member of our family. We are grateful every day.
Charleston Animal Society is caring, kind, and successful enough to be an example for the rest of the country.
Randolph Pritchard and all the staff at CAS have worked tirelessly to make sure all of the animals are treated well and adopted to loving families. They especially do a great job with the feline adoption program! As a past donor, I have toured the facility and it is one of the nicest of its kind I have seen, with the most professional employees.
Having volunteered with the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria, VA, I really appreciate that CAS is a"No Kill" facility.
CAS is one of the best non-profit organizations I have ever had the pleasure of dealing with. They have a wonderful mission! NO KILL!
Being animal lovers the staff and volunteers at the Edmondston-Alston House have donated to the Charleston Animal Society for several years. This organization continues to make improvements, including Toby's medical fund which lowers the euthanasia rate for animals needing medical attention. Their ultimate goal, hopefully in the near future, is to become a no-kill shelter.
I have donated to the shelter int he past and have a wonderful faithful companion that I was fortunate enough to have adopted when he was two. The staff at the shelter (especially Kay Hyman) works tirelessly to insure they can properly care for (veterinary services, food) and can find homes for ALL of its animals so that they can minimize euthenasia. People like Ms. Hyman and others are so committed to the shelter that they often work 24/7 to fulfill the shelter's mission. This runs the gamut from educating the public about the shelter's operations, soliciting donations (not just of money but also for food and other necessary items) and volunteers, and creatively trying to raise funds to maximize what the shelter is able to to for its residents (e.g., chili cookoff, Firemen's calendar, children's pet care camps in the summer). The shelter is also cooperative and supports legislation that was drafted to prosecute those who abuse animals which is simply another added responsiblity. No one person wears one hat. They are all involved in all aspects of insuring the success of the shelter. Unlike many other non-profit organizations, the Charleston Animal Society is very transparent in al that it does. We are fortunate not to just have this shelter in our community but more imporatantly, those that are employed and volunteer there that make it so wonderful.
CAS was my first introduction to an open-admission shelter. I had my biases against these types of shelters until I learned what they are about. While CAS technically is Open-admission I have seen them, time and again, bend over backwards to rehome ALL adoptable pets. Whether it be reaching out to an appropriate rescue, fee-waived adoption events or their Adoption Ambassador program. They truly care about each animal that comes thought their doors and do a remarkable job of placing animals where they are best suited. To prove they are making great strides they have gone from a 33% live release rate to over 70% in just a few short years. By 2015 they plan to be a no-kill community, which is no small feat in this type of shelter. They do such a great job by taking a holistic approach to sheltering. They have an array of amazing programs: foster homes (over 400 homes last I heard); an adoption ambassador program, where the ambassador is entrusted with adopting out the animal they foster; a humane education department that teaches youth about humane issues and the community about animal care; a TNR program that is free to the public; a free rabies clinic which offer spay/neuter and microchipping in the package; low-cost spay/neuter to the community; and an openness to hear new ideas to advance their cause. All of these, in addition, to the staff are what make this shelter a true asset to the Charleston community. I have recently moved away for the area, but am constantly bragging about this shelter and sharing the ideas I've taken away with the current shelter I volunteer with. CAS is truly a leader in the sheltering community and a benefit to the cause!
I was introduced to Charleston Animal Society back in 2008 when they had just moved into their new amazing state of the art facility and at the start of their partnership with the ASPCA's Mission Orange project.
To see how the shelter has changed over the years is amazing and very rewarding for me as a volunteer and donor. CAS picked up the ball and ran and I'm now so proud of them for turning around the euthanasia rate for Charleston and hopefully moving us to a No Kill Community in the coming months ahead.
I urge people wanting to add a pet to their family to choose CAS. The shelter is bright, clean, staff are friendly and very knowledgeable. They use the ASPCA's meet your match system which puts the right pet with the right owner. I have friends who have used the low cost spay/neuter clinic and have all been very impressed with the care their furkids received.
I also urge anyone wanting to volunteer their to do so, because of my new location i am not able to as much i would like but they do need help, be it at one of their great special events, on the floor or working with and socializing the dogs, trust me if you do it you will not be disappointed.
I also urge people to donate. They have a medical fund that you can donate to so animals that come into the shelter and need medical help are treated and not put down.
It's worth remembering that CAS has to take in every animal they receive, unlike some shelters and rescues that pick and choose who they save, that is why CAS needs all our help in what ever way we can.
A few years ago I came into the shelter looking for a small dog. I really wanted a terrier or yorkie to be exact, but at the time they only had 1 small dog, a 4 year old chihuahua named Butterscotch. I was never a big fan of chihuahuas, however, I stopped briefly at his cage and looked in. He was so tiny and curled up on a blanket. After a few minutes I stood and kept going, looking at all the other dogs up for adoption. However, something kept pulling me back to the little chihuahua's cage. He looked so scared and helpless. After about 30 minutes, I went into his cage and picked him up. I wanted to see how we interacted together, but of course he was a bit standoffish. I was a stranger. I put him back and continued to think about whether he was a good fit for me or not. After about an hour, I decided that I just couldn't leave the little guy there. When I went to the counter to let the staff members know that I wanted to adopt the little chihuahua, they were extremely helpful and got all the paperwork in order fairly quickly. Charleston Animal Shelter is a wonderful organization and we are lucky to have them. Butterscotch has been the light of my life since that day. He's a sweet, smart and devoted little guy. I love him with all my heart and soul.
I've been a board member of 4-5 nonprofits in the Charleston, SC area. I can easily say that the Charleston Animal Society (CAS) is easily the most well-run from both an operational standpoint and from a board standpoint. In my opinion, the key to a successful business is having a passion for it. A lot of people have a great passion for animals.
I'm certainly not an all-star board member; I'm somewhere around average. I've been on the board for about a year. Every single event or meeting I go to I see the strong passion among ALL employees and volunteers affiliated with CAS. That's right, every day. This alone speaks wonders for the animals that come through the doors. You can tell by this strong culture among the employees that the "tone at the top" is very good at CAS.
I have been involved with the Charleston Animal Society since 2008 and have seen it grow from a small run down trailer location, to a state of the art shelter saving thousands of lives. The quality of life offerred to the animals in the shelter has improved and therefore the quality of animals that are adopted out has improved and it shows. They are saving lives and are on a mission to make Charleston a No Kill community. They need support as it has not been easy or inexpensive, but their employees and volunteers are simply amazing and love what they do for the abandoned and rescued animals in the community and that they bring in from major disasters, dog fighting breeders, and puppy mills. I got one of our dogs from them that was a rescue from a puppy mill and can't imagine my life without our little Chio and our 2 1/2 year old daughter loves her more than anything. Charleston Animal Society is an award winning organization in our community and prides itself in being a best in class organization.
I volunteer approximately eight hours per week. I clean dog cages and kennels, walk dogs and prepare the "floor" for the opening of the shelter. I work along side kennel technicians and get a first hand view of the kind of treatment rendered to the dogs. I am very impressed by the level of care and committment shown by the floor kennel attendants. They do not cut corners and are truely committed to providing great care. It is a very busy shelter. It provides public care as well as private care and they work very hard keeping the facility in working order and the animals well cared for. The veterinarians provide caring and compassionate treatment.
Review from CharityNavigator