NORTH CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCSC) – The Charleston Animal Society is currently over capacity and is asking for your help to find these animals forever homes.
“We’re packed and we need the community to help us,” Senior Director of Community Engagement for Charleston Animal Society Kay Hyman said.
The shelter has over 1,000 animals in its care and does not have enough kennel space, so they are offering free adoptions for dogs over one year old.
“We’re having to use these pop-up kennels. Our dogs, some of the dogs in the back, are in double kennels,” Hyman said.
Charleston Animal Society also stresses the need to consider more senior pets.
“They are almost always housebroken. You can tell their temperament. You can tell how big they’re going to be. And it’s a great opportunity to help save a life,” Hyman said.
If adopting isn’t an option for you right now, you can also foster, and the Charleston Animal Society will provide everything you need.
“You could help save a life, and it’s not just the life of that dog, but it’s also the cage that is opened up for the next dog,” Hyman said.
“It’s tough because you realize how many dogs really need help, but it’s also really heartwarming to see the people here doing such great work and keeping these dogs happy and giving a place for them to stay,” dog adopter Adam Smith said.
Even just coming to the shelter, officials say, makes a difference.
“We wanted to at least give them a little bit of time outside of the kennel, take them outside and let them play a little bit and see if we get them some treats or anything like that,” potential adopter Josh Bosby said.
“It’s a better feeling if you come in here, and then you’ll give them a home. They’re so hopeful, and I feel so bad for each and every dog,” potential adopter Jess Kullmann said.
Officials say dogs struggle and break down faster than cats in the shelter.
“They easily can start deteriorating mentally because they’re in a cage,” Hyman said.
“Even if you don’t have a house and you think you don’t have enough space, I mean, living in an apartment, it’s better than being in that small little space in here,” Kullmann said.
There are also plenty of volunteer opportunities at Charleston Animal Society for those who can’t adopt. Click here to learn more.
Charleston Animal Society also has a Home to Home program where people can connect with other foster opportunities in the community.
For more information about Charleston Animal Society, click here.
