Welcome

DEAR FRIENDS,

As this issue hits display racks and your mailbox, we are in the midst of another long hurricane season. Ida’s devastating strike along the Gulf Coast in late August was a wakeup call to all of us to stay prepared. Please include your pets in your hurricane plan. Remember that hurricane season runs through November 30. Be sure to see coverage of our Disaster Response Team in action on pg. 10.

Our Applause for Paws Gala is coming up October 16 and even if you don’t have tickets, you can still participate in our amazing online auction and help us raise money for our lifesaving work at Charleston Animal Society. Thanks to so many supportive businesses, we have compiled a fantastic array of items that you can bid on – one that could be the perfect Christmas gift for someone special in your life. Just go to CharlestonAnimalSociety.org/galaauction to start bidding!

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

As you saw in the news this summer, animal shelters across the state declared a “State of Emergency,” after many found themselves over capacity. One reason for the overcrowding involved a veterinarian shortage that is impacting our state and the entire country (pg. 13).

Our No Kill South Carolina 2024 team played a crucial role in making the public aware of the summer adoption emergency. This came on the heels of the most successful Pick Me! SC statewide adoption event in history, also organized by No Kill South Carolina (pg. 8).

When it comes to animal welfare, we are always monitoring legislative actions at the local, state and national levels. In this issue, you’ll hear from U.S. Rep. Nancy Mace, to see where she stands on laws that are designed to protect animals (pg. 22).

There’s a saying that goes “a rising tide lifts all boats,” that I think is the perfect way to describe the current condition of animal sheltering in the Tricounty area. While you’ve helped tremendously with our growth over the past several years, we are now seeing exciting developments in Berkeley and Dorchester Counties. See what’s happening starting on pg. 20.

HAPPY HOLIDAYS

As 2021, with all its uncertainty, draws to an end, it’s time to reflect on all that is dear to us. Our pets are certainly at the top of the list. Through another COVID-19 surge, hurricanes, rising prices and trouble in the Middle East – our pets have been there for us every single day. Waiting. Oblivious. Just looking for a walk, a treat or playtime. This holiday season, make it a point to hug your pets a little closer. Board Chairwoman Laurel Greer and husband Hank enjoy time with a foster kitten at Charleston Animal Society. This year more than 1,500 animals have been fostered by volunteers. (Photo: Kay Hyman)

Thank you for everything you do for the animals.

Sincerely,

LAUREL GREER BOARD OF DIRECTORS CHAIRWOMAN