JUSTICE FOR ANIMAL ADVOCATES
CAROLINA
TAILS
SUMMER 2022 A Charleston Animal Society Publication
E-CARRIAGE
HURRICANE SEASON
NKSC 2024 EXPANDS
A Humane Alternative … Finally
Get Your 2022 Plan Ready Now!
Benefitting all South Carolinians
Help abused animals receive lifesaving care.
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Made possible by: And:
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LOVE THAT GOES THE DISTANCE. You go the extra mile for your pets; we go to even greater lengths for medical excellence.
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843.614.8387 charlestonvrc.com
3484 Shelby Ray Court, Charleston, SC 29414 *We are South Carolina’s only VECCS Level 1 Certified Veterinary Hospital, the highest certification level available through the Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care Society. Level 1 signifies that we have the resources and specialty training necessary to provide sophisticated and comprehensive emergency and urgent emergent care. care.
SUMMER 2022 | CAROLINA TAILS
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Publisher: Charleston Animal Society Editor-in-Chief: Dan Krosse Managing Editor: Joe Elmore Sponsorships: Erin Nosker, Ted DeLoach Graphic Design: mclaughlin design Copy Editors: Joe Elmore, Cristina Guillermo, Sean Hawkins, Natassia Donohue, Kay Hyman, Will Howell Writers: Dan Krosse, Joe Elmore, Becca Boronat, Bryant Taylor, Kay Hyman, Natassia Donohue, Will Howell, Lisa Pearce Photographers: Jeanne Taylor, Marie Rodriguez, Dan Krosse, Will Howell, Kay Hyman, Claudia Newburn, CCPRC For inquiries regarding advertising, distribution or suggestions in Carolina Tails contact: 2455 Remount Road North Charleston, SC 29406 (843) 747-4849 CarolinaTails.org Executive Committee & Officers Laurel Greer, Chairwoman Gerri Greenwood, Vice Chairwoman Martin Deputy, Vice Chairman Aussie Geer, Vice Chairwoman Patricia Henley, Secretary Jane Graham, Treasurer Donald M. Smith Louise Palmer Edward “Ted” Corvey, III, Esq. Luigi Bravo Hank Greer, Immediate Past Chairman Members of the Board William Asche, Esq. Cara Bibbiana Luigi Bravo Edward “Ted” Corvey, III, Esq. Jane Graham Hank Greer Gerri Greenwood Shelly Leeke, Esq. Brantley Meier, DC Richard Murphy Robert Nigro Donald M. Smith Peter Waters
Linda Bakker Catherine Brack Caroline Clark Martin Deputy Aussie Geer Laurel Greer Patricia Henley David Maybank, Jr., Esq. Arlene Morris Carolyn Murray Louise Palmer George “Pat” Waters
Henry Darby, Charleston County Council Representative
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Contents SUMMER 2022
5 Welcome 6 Pet Pointers 7 Art for the Animals Stall High School students create a special mural 8 High Tech Meets Humane E-carriage is unveiled in Charleston. 10 Hurricane Season Underway Is your pet plan ready?
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12 An Airman and His Pets Remembered 14 A Special Garden for Cats Plants that will delight your cats. 16 31 Days to End Cruelty You can help end cruelty in July 18 Breaking News: Justice in Court Carriage company vs animal advocates
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22 NKSC 2024 Expansion Sneak peek at exciting vision for state 24 Recognizing Amazing Advocates 26 Drowning Victim’s Legacy Genesis Swim Program is saving lives 28 Making a Will It’s never been easier 31 National Award for Volunteer 32 Partnership Spotlight Grants that are saving animal lives
President and CEO: Joe Elmore Media & Marketing Consultant: Dan Krosse, dpk media solutions
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For sponsorship, please contact Erin Nosker: enosker@ CharlestonAnimalSociety.org or (843) 329-1541. For advertising, please contact Ted Deloach: teddeloach@gmail.com or (843) 670-3941. © 2022 Carolina Tails is published by Charleston Animal Society, 2455 Remount Road, North Charleston, SC 29401. Carolina Tails is a registered trademark. Reproduction in whole or in part without the express, written permission of the publisher is prohibited.
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2022 NOMINATIONS JULY 15 - AUGUST 14
— VOTING AUGUST 15 - SEPTEMBER 14 —
~ 2022 ~
charlestonanimalsociety.org/rescue-brew-beer
PET TOYS!
ELI D NE O GG DO
PET CARRIERS!
COME SHOP TODAY!
E as tB
VISIT OUR STORE!
Right inside the shelter, we have an amazing retail space that has everything you need for your pet! Every purchase goes to our lifesaving work! Charleston Animal Society 2455 Remount Road North Charleston, SC 29406
Help us build a No Kill State with a NKSC 2024 plate!
ay Deli. c o m
NoKillSouthCarolina.org/License-Plate
11Locations
TO SERVE YOU
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CAROLINA TAILS | SUMMER 2022
EBD 569 Carolina Tails 2022-Q1 3.625x9.75 HPV 4C.indd 1
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Laurel Greer and husband Hank with CEO and President Joe Elmore. The Greers purchased a $60,000 Lexus RX 350L for a lifesaving raffle that raised $300,000 for the Animal Society. See who won on pg. 6.
Welcome DEAR FRIENDS, We continue to live through tumultuous times. As if a pandemic were not enough for us to endure, many of us are shocked at the skyrocketing price of groceries and other important services. Don’t even get me going on the price of gas! There is the war in Ukraine, our divisive politics and a surge in violence, not only against our friends and neighbors, but also against animals we hold so dear. But it is our pets that helps to unite us in difficult times. How often has an awkward moment with a stranger melted into smiles and laughs after someone starts talking about their dog or cat? It’s during difficult eras like the one we are living through that your support of Charleston Animal Society is even more appreciated. Throughout the month of July, we are sponsoring the 31 Days to End Cruelty Campaign (see pg. 16). We believe that by working together, we can prevent some of the outrageous acts of violence that animals in our state are living through. INSIDE THIS ISSUE We have breaking news in this issue of Carolina Tails. After four years of litigation, Charleston Animal Society’s efforts to advocate for horses has won a major victory in court! (See details on pg. 18). Along the same lines, we are excited to showcase the brandnew e-carriage that a Charleston entrepreneur has invented. It’s a horseless carriage that runs on clean energy and may one day be able to take tourists to see the sites of Charleston in an environmentally friendly and humane way (pg 8).
Don’t let your guard down this hurricane season! Experts are predicting three to six major hurricanes, so now is the time to prepare (pg. 10). Turn to pg. 14 to see what plants went into our brand-new Maria Panella Cat Enrichment Garden at Charleston Animal Society. These herbs and other plants will make your cat happier and healthier! Finally, we also explore the meaning of legacy in this issue through a few different stories. We give you the ins and outs of estate planning and an easy tool to get you started (pg. 22). Learn how the legacy of a Lowcountry airman who lost his life in a car accident will live on thanks to Joye Law Firm and Johnny Scott’s passionate commitment to his two elderly dogs (pg. 12). And – when a Charleston County mother tragically lost her young son in a drowning, she joined with the Charleston County Parks and Recreation Foundation to make his legacy one that is currently saving countless lives. Read about an amazing swim program on pg. 26. SAVE THE DATE Please mark October 15th on your calendar! That’s when we will celebrate our 2022 Gala with the theme “Havana Nights.” It’s going to be magical and we hope you will join us. Learn more at CharlestonAnimalSociety.org/Gala. Thank you for everything you do for the animals. Sincerely,
Laurel Greer Board of Directors Chairwoman
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NEWS :: You Can Use
Pet Pointers
WORLD’S OLDEST DOG LIVES IN SOUTH CAROLINA The world’s oldest dog lives right here in South Carolina. Pebbles, a four-pound Toy Fox Terrier was born March 28, 2000, and was named the oldest dog in the world by the Guinness Book of World Records in May. Pebbles lives in Taylors, SC with her parents Bobby and Julie Gregory. Pebbles’ family originally hoped to adopt a large breed dog when they first set their eyes on the pocket-sized pup. What Pebbles lacked in stature, she made up for with her larger-than-life personality. As Bobby looked around, he noticed the puppy following him and running alongside her enclosure every time he would walk by. According to Bobby and Julie, Pebbles can be a bit cranky when waking up, but at her age, why not?!
THE DOG’S NOSE KNOWS COVID Hate getting that swab up your nose to test for COVID-19? A new peer-reviewed study out of France says trained dogs are just as good at detecting COVID, as a PCR test. Dogs use the sweat off a person to detect COVID, and in some cases found it 48 hours before a lab test could. The dogs had an accuracy rate between 97% and 100%, and were able to find 31 COVID-19 cases in 192 people who didn’t show any symptoms. How will dogs amaze us next? You can read the complete study at journals.plos.org.
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LEXUS WINNER MEETS CAITLYN!
Congratulations to Suzanne and Robert Cure from Barboursville, WV — the 2022 Lifesaving Lexus Raffle winners! The Cures became supporters of Charleston Animal Society when Caitlyn the dog was rescued in 2015. “We have a picture of her on our mantle,” said Suzanne. So, when Charleston Animal Society President and CEO Joe Elmore presented the couple with the keys to their new car, imagine their surprise when Caitlyn herself showed up to give them puppy kisses! “Seeing Caitlyn was just as exciting as winning the car,” Robert said. “The work Charleston Animal Society does to save lives is amazing.” The Lifesaving Lexus Raffle was made possible thanks to the generosity of Hank and Laurel Greer, who purchased the vehicle. The raffle raised $300,000 for the animals at Charleston Animal Society. “We want to thank everyone who purchased a ticket, you truly made a difference in the lives of animals,” Hank Greer said.
NEW DRUG HELPS CATS AFTER SURGERY Good news for cat owners worried about post-operative pain control. A new pain medication’s been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) that involves one topical application after surgery that can last up to four days. In the past, an owner might have to take their cat in several times after a surgery for additional pain medication. The new opioid drug is called Zorbium (buprenorphine transdermal solution). Zorbium is a solution that is applied to the skin at the base of the neck of the cat and is rapidly absorbed into the layers of the skin. It provides pain relief within one to two hours following administration and continually releases buprenorphine into the body over a period of days.
Stall High School Presents Special Artwork for Animals
SPECIA L GIFT
W
hen Stall High School Assistant Principal Claudia Newburn saw the colorful mural depicting a dog and cat, she instantly fell in love with it. When she learned the student artists wanted to donate it to a local animal shelter, she knew exactly who to call: Charleston Animal Society Board Member Luigi Bravo. “When your CEO, Joe Elmore, came to pick it up, he was like, ‘I want to bring the people from the shelter back to see all of this this artwork here at Stall. I want them to see what you guys have done,’” Newburn explained. A week later, a team of 15 representatives from the shelter came to see the artwork and were amazed at the talent they witnessed. The mural is made of tiles and is titled “Making Happy Homes.” It magically ties together the animals in the painting with an historic Charleston single house and the Ravenel bridge to bring out a true sense of community. Art Teacher Tracy Partridge said working with the students on the mural was a bonding experience. “It was therapeutic for us, and we all love animals. If we haven’t connected on one level, we end up talking about their dogs at home or what pets they do have at home,” Partridge said.
“Especially at a time like this, it’s nice to talk about something that’s so personal, but brings so much love into our lives.” Sculpture instructor Raymond Hampton agrees with Partridge that working on the artwork was a nice break from the difficulties with the pandemic, economy and other social issues. A mutual love of animals was one way to add a positive impact to society, according to Hampton. The mural was just one of hundreds of pieces of art completed as part of an end-of-year art show at Stall High School. The artwork included paintings, glasswork, sculpture and other art of all shapes, sizes and mediums. All of this accomplished at a Title I school, where poverty is a daily reality for many students. “These students have this raw talent in them that they don’t realize that they actually have. And I think our teachers bring that out,” Hampton said. “And so, when we have an opportunity to grab somebody from the community and say, ‘Hey, look what we do!’ And they respond, like the Charleston Animal Society did, that is just so cool. I mean you could tell; it gives me chill bumps.” The mural was placed at the entrance of the Post and Courier Foundation Education Room at Charleston Animal Society.
DAN KROSSE
By DAN KROSSE
CLAUDIA NEWBURN
YOUNG TALENT :: Cool Art
TOP: The student artists at Stall High School were hoping their mural could be displayed at an animal shelter and Charleston Animal Society jumped at the chance to show it. ABOVE: The mural is showcased at the entrance of the Post and Courier Foundation Education Room at Charleston Animal Society.
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INNOVATION :: Green and Humane
High Tech Meets Humane By DAN KROSSE
HORSE L C ARRI ESS AGE
Charleston entrepreneur introduces an “e-carriage” to the world.
ROME, BARCELONA, PHILADELPHIA, CHICAGO, NEW YORK, NEW ORLEANS — CITIES AROUND THE GLOBE ARE LINING UP TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THE E-CARRIAGE, BUILT RIGHT HERE IN CHARLESTON. BUT WHY DOES THE HOLY CITY APPEAR TO BE GIVING THE VENTURE THE COLD SHOULDER? “The goal is to work with the city of Charleston in any way possible to make this an operating tour company and vehicle. But like anything else that’s new and different, you kind of have to go through a process of trying to make that happen and not kicking the hornet’s nest,” said e-carriage inventor Kyle Kelly. The “hornet’s nest” Kelly is referring to is the controversy surrounding Charleston’s multi-million-dollar horse carriage tour industry. Despite continued assurances from carriage industry leaders, many people continue to question whether the industry is humane. Among the concerns: heat, multiple horse-related incidents, sanitation, congested city streets and the stress of pulling the carriages. Charleston Animal Society and the City’s Livability and Tourism Department routinely field calls about the topic, especially during the heat of the summer. Kelly says hearing viewpoints from both sides inspired a “light bulb” moment where he decided to build an e-carriage. With five more e-carriages in production, he believes there is room for his e-carriage to fit into the Charleston equation as humane, eco-tourism. “There are tourists who come to Charleston, and they don’t want to do a horse-drawn carriage for their personal 8
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reasons and beliefs, and I respect that,” Kelly explained. “So, their other option is a walking tour and in the 95-to-100-degree heat of Charleston, a lot of people don’t or physically can’t do a walking tour. So, what’s nice with the e-carriage is, it’s going to grab that basket of people in the middle that are looking for an alternative tour option.” A carriage company in New Orleans is one of the entities to reach out to Kelly. New Orleans also has a carriage tour industry that has received its own amount of criticism. WHAT IS THE E-CARRIAGE LIKE? The e-carriage looks like it rolled out of an era between 1875 and 1905. Large-spoked wheels holding up a black, lacquered, carriage frame that can hold five rows of passengers. The buttoned-leather seats are covered with a carriage top, complete with a surrey fringe. The only thing missing is a horse. The vintage look disguises the tech that drives the carriage – state-of-the-art lithium batteries that are tucked under the floorboards. Riders will also notice power steering, electric lanterns and running lights.
JEANNE TAYLOR / JTPETPICS.COM
ABOVE LEFT: The e-carriage can carry five rows of passengers and is powered by state-of-the-art lithium batteries. TOP: Even dogs found room to spread out under the electric lanterns of the e-carriage, during our photo shoot. BELOW: The spoked wheels evoke the bygone era Charleston is famous for.
DAN KROSSE
Kelly is passionate about making Charleston the first city to launch the e-carriage, because he believes it will be another historic first for the Holy City. “The idea was grown here. It was built here. I’ve been here for 15 years. My goal is to be the Henry Ford of the industry,” Kelly said. HITTING THE ROAD? When will people see the e-carriage hit the road? There are still some hurdles to clear before that can happen. Kelly is currently in discussions with state officials on how to classify the e-carriage as a vehicle. At the same time, he continues to introduce the idea to city council and other Charleston officials who hold the keys to whether the e-carriage will be allowed to show the city to visitors. Kelly emphasizes that the e-carriage is silent, which will appeal to neighborhood residents and the vehicle doesn’t pollute like tour buses, which is great for the environment. He says, all he wants is a fair shot at getting the e-carriage out on the streets. “I think at the end of the day, that’s called consumerism. It’s giving people the option right now, when you know, your choices are very limited,” Kelly said. “The e-carriage is green, it’s environmentally friendly, it’s as quiet as a whisper and it’s humane. I mean, it checks all the boxes for it to exist.”
CHARLESTON ANIMAL SOCIETY’S POSITION ON CARRIAGE INDUSTRY Charleston Animal Society is not opposed to working animals, as long as the conditions they work in are humane. Charleston Animal Society believes the public deserves an independent, scientific, peer-reviewed, prospective study of the horses and mules that work in Charleston’s stressful urban enviroment to provide a framework for humane working conditions. The Animal Society believes the current working conditions are the harshest in the country and laws are routinely violated and unenforced. SUMMER 2022 | CAROLINA TAILS
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HURRICANE SEASON 2022 :: Be Prepared
HURRI C ANE KITS
Preparing You and Your Pet for Hurricane Season
By Bryant Taylor DAN KROSSE
Don’t be a statistic! Get you and your pet ready for Hurricane Season right now. To jumpstart the process, Charleston Animal Society is teaming up with Petco Love to provide 10,000 Emergency Pet Grab ‘n Go Bags. Look for the bags starting in July at pet-friendly events up and down the Carolina coast, sponsored by animal shelters including Charleston Animal Society. Your new Emergency Pet Grab ‘n Go Bag will also include pet alert stickers for your home windows. WHY PREPARE? Don’t wait to prepare because the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has forecasted an “above normal” season for the Atlantic area with as many as 21 named storms. According to NOAA, roughly half of those will be hurricanes, and 3-6 of them could be major. Hurricane season runs from June through November. “With the increased threat to our area, it is very important that your family prepare in advance and have a plan of where to go when a storm heads our way,” said Charleston Animal Society Vice President of Operations and Strategy Aldwin Roman, CAWA. “Also, a plan cannot be considered complete if it doesn’t involve every member of the household, including feathered and four-legged family members.” WHAT DO I PUT IN MY GRAB ‘N GO BAG? A good first step is a healthy supply of food and water for each pet, enough for at least three days – preferably a week. Bowls for the food and water will also be necessary. Next, pack extra collars, harnesses and leashes, then include a pet first aid kit. You should also pack necessary sanitation items like poop bags, litter and litter box, and cleaning supplies to properly clean up after your pet while away. Additionally, bedding and familiar toys for your animals will help to entertain and comfort your pets during this potentially stressful disruption of their routine. There are some important documents you will want to have prepared to take with you as well. A copy of your pet’s medical and vaccination records should go into your kit, as proof of vaccination may be required at hotels and emergency shelters to enter. Also, you should keep an extra supply of any current medications your pet takes on a regular basis and keep them inside your emergency kit.
HURRICANE WEBSITES TO BOOKMARK CharlestonAnimalSociety.org/DisasterPreparedness
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Ready.gov
Know your evacuation route and where you will be staying. Transport your animals in carriers.
And in case you get separated from your pets, you should keep your pets’ microchip information, rabies tag info, and pictures of yourself with your pets in a safe and waterproof container. These items will be helpful to prove ownership and can reunite you both easily. KIT IS PACKED, WHAT NEXT? Once you have all your items assembled for your pet emergency supply kit, you’ll want to think of safe locations out of harm’s way to evacuate to that can accommodate the whole family. Make a list of relatives, friends, pet-friendly emergency shelters and pet-friendly hotels. Research these options ahead of time to find what works best for your situation and make the necessary arrangements to secure a spot for everyone who will make the trip. You will also need a pet carrier or crate for each pet, one large enough for them to stand and turn around in. Wherever you evacuate to, being able to safely contain your pets will be required. Finally, because so many animals go missing during disasters, be sure to upload a picture of your pet to the Petco Love Lost database today. It’s completely free and you can sign-up to receive alerts about your pet if he or she is lost and create a digital lost pet flyer to post on your social media pages. Petco Love Lost uses facial recognition technology to reunite families, just go to PetcoLoveLost.org to get started. Bryant Taylor is Charleston Animal Society’s Emergency Response and Preparedness Manager.
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SCEMD.org
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PetcoLoveLost.org
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Pet-Friendly-Hotels.net
MAKE YOUR PLAN Follow this checklist to keep your pets safe before the next hurricane strikes. Have collars, ID tags & microchips Put Pet Alert stickers on windows Have current photos of your pets Sign-up with Petco Love Lost Pack emergency kit / Know evacuation routes Have list of shelters and pet-friendly hotels HURRICANE SEASON PEAKS MID-AUGUST THROUGH MID-OCTOBER. CHARLESTONANIMALSOCIETY.ORG/HURRICANE
A Veteran’s Legacy Lives On
IN MEMO RY
By KAY HYMAN
Joye Law Firm Managing Partner Ken Harrell announces a $100,000 gift to Charleston Animal Society in memory of Johnny Scott and his two dogs Gina and Luca.
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obody wants to receive a call that a friend or loved one has been in a tragic car accident. Stephanie and Tyson Brown got that call about their dear friend and co-worker Johnny Scott. “We are his only family, and we would do anything for him, and he would do the same for us,” said Stephanie. They sprang into action to get to the Air Force veteran’s side. When they arrived at the hospital, Johnny was paralyzed from the neck down, but his brain and verbal responses were intact. Over and over again, he asked nurses, EMT’s, and anyone who would listen, “who will care for my babies?” Back at his home, Johnny had two eight12
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year-old Cane Corsos, Gina and Luca. At 73 and 120 pounds, these gentle giants were alone and suffering from age-related arthritis and skin issues. Luca also had a massive growth on his hip. As they sat alone in Johnny’s apartment, they had no idea that their lives had just been turned upside down. RESCUING GINA AND LUCA As their human fought for his life, both Luca and Gina received daily care from Stephanie and Tyson, but they soon realized that they would need long-term care and turned to Charleston Animal Society for help. It didn’t take long for our staff to fall in love with these sweet old
souls. Their big, kind eyes and soft, gray faces melt the hearts of everyone who met them. Our veterinary team saw to all of their medical needs, and our animal care staff made sure they had plenty of exercise, lots of treats, and tons of love. During his time in the hospital, we sent Gina and Luca’s dad photos and videos of both dogs playing, drooling, relaxing and enjoying the outdoors. He regularly asked about how his cherished canine companions were doing, and the Charleston Animal Society team made sure they were safe and comfortable in our care. As part of their daily activities, they were exercised in our socialization play yards. The yards are specifically designed for
WILL HOWELL
LEGACY :: Always Remember
dogs to be able to get out and play with other dogs in the sun and shade. Joye Law Firm, which has supported Charleston Animal Society for 15 years, stepped in to help manage Johnny’s estate after learning about the situation. “The Animal Society did so much good during such a bad situation,” said Joye Law Firm Managing Partner Ken Harrell. “The people of Charleston are extremely lucky to have a world-class animal rescue organization right here in our backyard.” JOHNNY LOSES HIS FIGHT Just days after Gina and Luca arrived at the shelter, news came that no one ever wanted to hear. The injuries that Gina and Luca’s dad sustained from the car accident were too great, and Johnny passed away. In this time of loss, Charleston Animal Society staff were more determined than ever to make sure these sweet dogs were given their best chance at a new start in a loving home. In cases like this, the shelter will reach out to breed-specific rescue organizations that have resources, knowledge and a community that is passionate about a certain breed. Both dogs were transported to a Cane Corso-specific
rescue organization where individuals with extensive knowledge about Cane Corsos can help them find the most suitable home.
Former Airman Johnny Scott died in a car accident. His final breaths were spent asking for someone to please take care of his two dogs Gina and Luca.
KEEPING JOHNNY’S LEGACY ALIVE Many of the attorneys and employees at Joye Law Firm are dog lovers. They knew that Johnny would want to help Gina, Luca and other animals for years to come. Joye Law Firm stepped forward, making a $100,000 memorial contribution to revitalize the play yards that Gina and Luca had run and played in during their stay. At a special presentation in June, the key socialization yards were named the Gina and Luca Play Yards in memory of Johnny Scott. “For Johnny, like for many of us, his dogs were more than pets. They were family,” said Joye Law Firm Attorney Jeff Gerardi. “This contribution will go to help other families and pets during difficult times, which we feel is an appropriate way to honor Johnny’s memory and help preserve his legacy.” Thanks to Joye Law Firm, future abandoned and medically challenged dogs will have an amazing play yard to relax in. Kay Hyman is Charleston Animal Society’s Director of Community Engagement. SUMMER 2022 | CAROLINA TAILS
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FELINES :: Magic Garden
Cat Enrichment Garden Dedicated
LOVIN G CATS
Garden created in honor of beloved donor and volunteer Maria Panella DAN KROSSE
Jackson Galaxy, host of TV’s “Cat from Hell,” with Deb Pratt, Steve Pratt, Charlene Barnard and Donald Barnard -- friends of volunteer and donor Maria Panella.
The Maria Panella Cat Enrichment Garden Includes: Lemongrass • Roman Chamomile • Lemon Balm • Catnip • Cat Thyme • Valerian 14
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or socks sprinkled with dried or fresh catnip or mint. Utilizing herbs like lavender not only provides a structured activity for cats but also helps to calm frightened animals. “We have a volunteer dedicated to bringing cats items from the garden,” said Charleston Animal Society Behavior Team Manager Donya Satriale. “When the cats receive these herbs, they absolutely love them.” By eating small amounts of freshly grown lemongrass, cats benefit from the activity of chewing. Sunflowers, zinnias, snapdragons, and gerbera daisies are also safe for cats and can be grown in the garden. Keeping cats busy with physical activities like gnawing, scratching and sniffing helps them stay mentally engaged and stable while the shelter works to place them in homes. This enrichment garden was installed to honor Maria Panella, a marvelous volunteer and donor who loved saving the lives of cats.
DAN KROSSE
C
elebrity Cat Expert Jackson Galaxy joined Charleston Animal Society in the dedication ceremony for the Maria Panella Cat Enrichment Garden Wednesday, March 23rd. Galaxy spoke at the event, saying he was truly inspired by the garden and what it will mean for shelter cats. By partnering with the Master Gardeners at Clemson University, Charleston Animal Society created the garden at the entrance of the shelter. Now behavior staff and volunteers at the shelter have a variety of herbs and plants at their fingertips to help keep resident cats mentally stimulated and physically engaged through scent enrichment. Cats love rubbing their faces on carpet
TOP: Sophie’s eyes lit up and her nose started going when presented with a sprig of thyme at the shelter. BOTTOM: Lindsey Berg harvests some herbs and plants from the Maria Panella Cat Enrichment Garden.
Is Animal Cruelty Spinning Out of Control?
411 CRUEL TY CASES
Pellets are easy to spot in the x-ray of a cat found shot in North Charleston.
31 DAYS TO END CRUELTY In the past five years, Charleston Animal Society has spent hundreds of thousands of dollars fighting cruelty. Charleston Animal Society has treated countless victims of abuse, sends emergency response teams to cruelty cases, offers rewards to flush out leads for investigators and sponsored training seminars for ACOs. The Animal Society also provides complementary veterinary forensics, including necropsies, to law enforcement. Cruelty has spiraled out of control to the point Charleston Animal Society is dedicating the entire month of July to the cause. You can join the “31 Days to End Cruelty” campaign and double your donation. Every citizen can participate by donating at CharlestonAnimalSociety.org/ EndCruelty. During this special campaign, every donation made will be matched dollar-for-dollar up to $50,000. Community leaders including Shelly Leeke Law Firm, Paige and Tommy Hall, Jimmy Baldrick and Marge Lawson, and an Anonymous Friend of Animals have come together to create this $50,000 challenge. 16
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THE LIST OF ANIMAL CRUELTY CASES AROUND SOUTH CAROLINA READS LIKE A GROTESQUE HORROR NOVEL: LOWCOUNTRY • Man kills puppy by throwing him from a balcony • 49 cats seized from hoarding case in Colleton County • Dog left in ditch to die after being shot • Cat shot with pellet gun on street • Dog chronically abused and allegedly killed by family member
to get more involved in the fight against animal cruelty. “We have seen 411 animals killed, abused or neglected, some in heinous ways, here in Charleston County and across our entire state since January, and it continues to escalate,” said Elmore. “We need our community to help us stand up and end cruelty once and for all. Regardless of your concern for animals, studies indicate there is a link between animal cruelty and human violence. Humans are at risk too.”
STATE
All cruelty victims were memorialized at a special opening ceremony of Celebrity Paws in the Park on Saturday, March 19 at Riverfront Park in North Charleston, where a bell was rung in their memory.
• Union County man tortures dog by screwing his paws to a wall
WHAT CAN YOU DO?
• Three separate dogs with gunshot wounds found in Orangeburg County
• 30 dogs and cats found dead at a Columbia rescue • 38 horses found neglected in Spartanburg • Dog found in Elloree, SC that appears to have been stabbed • 150 dogs seized from a Pickens County puppy mill • Clarendon County man throws hound dog in a hole after shooting her On March 16, Charleston Animal Society’s President and CEO Joe Elmore, CAWA, CFRE, stood in front of a unified group of Animal Control Officers from around the Lowcountry, challenging the community
There are ways each of us can help stop cruelty. If you see something, say something. Animal Control Officers (ACO) are ready and willing to investigate your concerns, but they need a tip or phone call to get started. If you see an animal in immediate danger, call 911. Take photos or video of animals you are concerned about. Never trespass on private property and don’t place yourself in danger. “Support organizations that are fighting cruelty,” said Charleston Animal Society Vice President of Operations and Strategy Aldwin Roman, CAWA.
KAY HYMAN
ANIMAL CRUELTY :: On the Rise
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SUMMER 2022 | CAROLINA TAILS
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EQUINES :: Animal Advocacy
Historic Win for Animals, Advocacy and Freedom of Speech! A HORSE CARRIAGE COMPANY’S LAWSUIT AGAINST ANIMAL ADVOCATES COLLAPSES IN COURT.
By JOE ELMORE, CAWA, CFRE Charleston Animal Society and other animal advocacy organizations and individuals won a major lawsuit brought against them to intimidate and stifle their efforts to bring humane reform to Charleston’s carriage tourist attraction. This was a win for animals, advocacy and freedom of speech! It all started nearly four years ago, when a carriage horse, “Big John,” collapsed during a tour in Downtown Charleston. Charleston Animal Society created a video of the incident 18
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comprised of footage it received from eyewitnesses as part of its advocacy efforts to make working conditions for the carriage horses more humane, especially during the intense heat of summer. Charleston Carriage Works, which owned Big John, threatened to bring legal action if Charleston Animal Society did not retract the video. The video remains on Charleston Animal Society’s YouTube channel and has more than 66,000 views. A year later, the carriage company brought a lawsuit against Charleston Animal Society, Charleston Carriage Horse Advocates and Ellen Harley
claiming, amongst other things, that the use of the word “collapse” in the video was defamatory. The Court disagreed, holding that the video “is a fundamental example of the type of public discourse protected by the First Amendment.” The Court also determined, based on the carriage company owner’s testimony, that the use of the word “collapse” was not defamatory because it was “substantially true.” This type of lawsuit is what is known as a “SLAPP” lawsuit - a Strategic Lawsuit Against Public Participation, which is often used to intimidate
8 KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM COURT RULING Plaintiff: Charleston Carriage Works, LLC Defendant: Charleston Animal Society, Charleston Carriage Horse Advocates and Ellen Harley
1
“While Plaintiff has submitted affidavits in which it baldly claims that Defendants knew that the statements in the Big John video were false, those claims are not supported by admissible evidence…”
2 3 4 5
“Defendants would still be entitled to summary judgment because the speech addresses a matter of public concern and is protected by the First Amendment.” “At the heart of the First Amendment’s protection is speech on matters of public concern.” “To the extent that the video implies that Plaintiff abuses its horses or treats them in an inhumane manner, such an implication is not actionable. These are matters of opinion not capable of being proven to be false.” “Taken in its context, and with the immense public interest in Charleston’s carriage horses and, specifically, the Big John incident, the video is a fundamental example of the type of public discourse protected by the First Amendment.”
advocacy organizations, such as those advocating for civil rights, environmental and animal protection, women’s rights, and many more, into backing down from their advocacy efforts due to the legal costs of defending these types of claims. AntiSLAPP legislation has been enacted in 32 states, both conservative and liberal, in the United States. In fact, most of the southern states have anti-SLAPP laws. North Carolina and South Carolina do not. There have been efforts in the SC Legislature to ban these type of intimidation lawsuits, which are a threat
“As to the use of the word ‘collapse,’ Plaintiff bears the burden of presenting admissible evidence that the horse did not collapse. It has failed to do so. Rather, as discussed below, the Court finds that Defendants are entitled to summary judgment on this claim on the basis that it is substantially true.”
6 7
“Plaintiff has produced no admissible evidence that Defendants published the Big John video, or any of the statements made therein, for the purpose of injuring Plaintiff.” “The evidence establishes that Plaintiff has, in fact, violated the law in its operations. Specifically, Dan Riccio, the City of Charleston’s Director of Livability and Tourism, testified after viewing video footage of Plaintiff’s carriages running stop signs that this practice violated the City’s ordinances as well as state law.”
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COURT VICTO RY
to the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution (learn more on page 20). Not only did this lawsuit attempt to stop advocacy efforts for more humane working conditions in line with other cities across America, it was one of many tactics, including physical assault, threats, smear campaigns, and the misleading of public and elected officials, launched by the carriage tourist attraction industry to discredit and intimidate the advocacy organizations. Charleston Animal Society was founded 148 years ago to prevent
cruelty to animals like other animal organizations in that era, specifically working horses and livestock. Charleston Animal Society remains steadfast in its efforts to encourage more humane working conditions for the equines working in the stressful urban environment downtown, which the Animal Society considers the harshest working conditions of this kind in the country. Joe Elmore is President and CEO of Charleston Animal Society. SUMMER 2022 | CAROLINA TAILS
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LEGAL :: SC Laws
South Carolina Needs a Good SLAPP Law
MY TURN
By ERIC ROBINSON
I
n late May, the Judiciary Committee of the North Carolina State Assembly approved a legislative bill, which would allow for early dismissal of lawsuits making libel or other claims that are meant to shut down discussion of important public issues. The bill is now due to be considered by the Assembly as a whole. If North Carolina adopts the bill into law, it will become the 34th state to pass a so-called “Anti-SLAPP” statute. (The District of Columbia also has such a law; West Virginia has anti-SLAPP provisions via a court decision). These laws are called “anti-SLAPP” statutes because they prevent “SLAPPs,” an acronym for “strategic lawsuits against public participation.” These are lawsuits filed to intimidate and stop defendants from discussing matters of public interest, rather than seeking compensation for actual harm. One such case was filed against a South Carolina defendant in the 1980s. Animal rights activist Shirley McGreal, head of the International Primate Protection League in Summerville, S.C., was sued for $4 million over a letter she wrote to the academic Journal of Medical Primatology protesting a drug company’s plans to use chimpanzees in hepatitis research. Her insurer settled the case against her—over her objection—for $100,000. Later, New York State’s highest court dismissed the 20
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case against the remaining defendant, the journal’s editor, on the grounds that the statements were protected by the First Amendment. Anti-SLAPP statutes create a special motion to dismiss such lawsuits that the defendant shows are meant to stifle discussion of public issues. Claims in such lawsuits often include libel, interference with contractual relations and intentional infliction of emotional distress. In addition to protecting concerned citizens and public interest groups, in many states media organizations have successfully used anti-SLAPP statutes to get libel suits stemming from their coverage of public issues dismissed. Support for such bills ranges across the political spectrum, from the liberal-leaning American Civil Liberties Union to the conservative-leaning American Legislative Exchange Council. In 2020 the Uniform Law Commission produced a model Public Expression Protection Act that individual states can adopt in order to standardize the law across the U.S. The North Carolina bill is based on this model provision, as are anti-SLAPP laws enacted recently in Kentucky and Washington. Such a bill should also be seriously considered here in South Carolina. Such a bill was introduced in our legislature in 2003, 2009 and 2018, but never
progressed past the House Judiciary Committee. The 2018 effort garnered support after a Mount Pleasant developer subpoenaed opponents of his proposed development, seeking their e-mail and other communications with local officials and with each other. But each of these bills died in the Assembly Judiciary Committee. South Carolina does have a law imposing sanctions on parties and attorneys for filing frivolous lawsuits, but whether a lawsuit is frivolous is different from whether the true purpose is to stifle speech. Also, such sanctions are rarely imposed. Protection of speech about public issues is an important First Amendment principle, and we should strengthen that protection by barring frivolous lawsuits that use the threat of litigation—and its inherent expenses and risks—to shut down legitimate discussion of public issues and controversies. South Carolina should bolster its protections for free speech by passing an anti-SLAPP statute in the near future. This opinion piece was originally published in June 2022 by the South Carolina Press Association. Eric P. Robinson focuses on media and internet law as associate professor at the USC School of Journalism and Mass Communication and Of Counsel to Fenno Law in Charleston / Mount Pleasant.
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SUMMER 2022 | CAROLINA TAILS
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SAVING LIVES :: NKSC 2024 Expansion
Expansion on the Horizon?
FUTUR VISIONE
EXCITING FUTURE BEING PLANNED FOR ANIMALS AND CHILDREN IN SOUTH CAROLINA.
CAROLINA TAILS: Tell us about the expansion of the Charleston Animal Society campus. JOE ELMORE: This project would benefit South Carolina residents and animals for decades to come. A very important step in the process was to access the land that is adjacent to our current campus in North Charleston. In May, the North Charleston City Council unanimously voted to generously donate the land to Charleston Animal Society for the expansion CT: The project is largely conceptual right now and needs to go through feasibility studies, but what is the vision? JE: It’s sort of threefold in terms of what it aims to do, but it will be a multipurpose expansion. Part of the vision is a large-scale veterinary clinic to address accessible and affordable vet care, which is a big issue for not only animal shelters across South Carolina, but for pet owners across the state. Secondly, would be an overcapacity emergency shelter, and that would help with these large cruelty situations and when shelters are overwhelmed. It will also be used to house animals if we take a direct hit from a large hurricane. Thirdly, an education center would be included to train animal welfare professionals across South Carolina and elsewhere, along with creating an employment path for high school students to learn animal welfare vocations and pursue a career. We want to elevate the standard of training and knowledge. CT: You mentioned education will also be a key part of this expansion? JE: Yes, an important part of all this is to amplify the compassion education
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that we are currently offering. We teach compassion education to kids in schools, on weekends here at the shelter and in summer and holiday camps. We don’t advertise our summer camps, other than we put it up on our own website and it’s sold out for the whole summer in a day and a half. If we can quadruple the number of kids that go through compassion education, knowing that it’s a learned behavior, then we should be able to make an impact on the accelerating violence we are seeing with teens. CT: Will there be room to help more with farm animals? JE: Yes. We would like the plan to include a barn to enable us to have a farm animal presence on campus so that we can incorporate that into our compassion education classes. Too many children in Charleston County and the Tricounty area never get to see farm animals, so this would be a huge benefit. CT: What will a shelter expansion like this cost? JE: That’s why we’re doing the feasibility study. Back in 2018, which is when we completed the strategic plan, we were estimating somewhere between $10 million and $15 million. But that was without the emergency overcapacity shelter. Now with construction costs going up, we really have to complete the feasibility study to get a solid cost estimate. There will be a capital campaign involved, but we’re not announcing that yet because we don’t know what the cost would be and what the goals would be. That’s why we’re very careful in articulating that this is a process and we want to do it right, because we want it to be successful. CT: People are going to be excited to
see this! How can they get involved? What can they do? JE: What we’re asking our supporters to do is to stay tuned on this. We’re going to be releasing information from this point forward, all along the way, but it’s not going to be real fast. This is a long-term project, and we want to make sure that we’ve crossed all the Ts and dotted all the Is, especially in these turbulent times with a projected recession. CT: Is there a date where you would like to see this completed by? JE: I would love to see us solidify the funding and everything by our 150th anniversary, which would be March 14th, 2024. In terms of building it, there are so many variables including a possible recession on the horizon and construction delays, that it’s difficult to say. Finally, we cannot move forward with this project until we grow our operational funding, so that we will be in the position to impact the lives of all these thousands of additional animals and children. At Charleston Animal Society, we solve problems rather than react to them every day — and that is what this expansion is all about.
ABOVE: This conceptual drawing shows the potential expansion of the Animal Society’s NKSC 2024 Project. BELOW: Growing the Compassion Education program to reach kids across SC in response to escalating violence will be a major strategy of the expansion. A barn for farm animals is also proposed. A veterinary clinic will help SC shelters and families access and afford veterinary care.
DAN KROSSE
HEATHER GROGAN
SUMMER 2022 | CAROLINA TAILS
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ANIMAL ADVOCATES :: Recognition
TWO KEY AWARDS GIVEN TO LOCAL ANIMAL ADVOCATES JIM ELLIOTT
SHELLY LEEKE LAW FIRM
The Elizabeth Bradham Humanitarian Award was presented to Jim Elliott, Executive Director and Founder of The Avian Conservation Center / Center for Birds of Prey, based in Awendaw. Elliott has been a life-long student of birds. His many years of experience have been significantly effective in his quest to protect avian species and their habitats.
This year’s Community Ambassador Award went to the Shelly Leeke Law Firm. Each year, Charleston Animal Society recognizes a business, organization or agency that goes above and beyond in their support of the Animal Society’s lifesaving work by presenting this prestigious recognition.
Elizabeth Bradham Humanitarian of the Year Award
Community Ambassador Award
Shelly Leeke has volunteered as a foster; she’s adopted homeless animals and she has donated matching gifts during Charleston Animal Society “Giving Day” events to encourage other donors to help save animals through financial gifts.
Early in his career, Elliott became aware of the need for a professional level of care for injured birds of prey in South Carolina, equipped to sufficiently manage the direct threats to the birds of prey population. That awareness eventually led Elliott to establish the Charleston Raptor Center in 1991.
In July, Leeke is contributing yet again to a $50,000 match in Charleston Animal Society’s “31 Days to End Cruelty” campaign. Your gift will be doubled throughout July at CharlestonAnimalSociety.org/EndCruelty.
The Elizabeth Bradham Humanitarian Award recognizes an individual whose lifetime of work has impacted and continues to impact the lives of countless animals in our local community and amplified beyond.
CAROLINA TAILS | SUMMER 2022
MARIE RODRIGUEZ
MARIE RODRIGUEZ
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HUMA SPOTL NE IGHT
VOLUNTEERS RECOGNIZED AT SPECIAL EVENT
Three volunteer awards were presented at Charleston Animal Society’s Volunteer Recognition Event that had the theme: “Lights, Camera, Appreciation!” Throughout the year, the hard work and dedication of volunteers saves countless animal lives. Charleston Animal Society relies greatly on our 1,200 volunteers, and in turn, the animals of our community rely greatly on their kindness.
TERRY HORTON
LOUISE PALMER
Hilton Smith, III, Leadership Award
Foster Family Volunteer of the Year
The Charleston Animal Society Volunteer of the Year Award was presented to emergency response driver Terry Horton. When there is a hurricane, cruelty case, or when a shelter is overcrowded – Charleston Animal Society is often called in to help rescue animals. Horton is one of our main volunteer drivers who has traveled 8,300 miles, taking 83 dogs and cats to better lives.
The Hilton Smith, III, Leadership Award was presented to Charleston Animal Society Board Member Louise Palmer. Louise is a tireless volunteer who not only gives of her time on the Board of Directors, but also helps raise thousands of dollars each year for the animals, using her personal and business contacts. Louise was the top fundraiser for this year’s Celebrity Paws in the Park event.
The Foster Family Volunteer Award went to Jeff and Dede Carey. The award is presented annually to a family who has provided, time and again, the critical, round-the-clock lifesaving care required by the most vulnerable of animals. Dozens of animals have benefitted from the hard work of this year’s recipients.
Volunteer of the Year
JEFF & DEDE CAREY
WILL HOWELL
TAGYOURPIX
DAN KROSSE
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SUMMER HEAT :: County Parks OTHER CHARLESTON COUNTY PARKS FOUNDATION FUNDS The Nature Stewardship Fund Is focused on preserving, protecting and managing the natural resources throughout the Charleston County Park system for the enjoyment and benefit of the citizens of the Lowcountry for years to come.
Charleston County Parks Safe Swimming Program Lifesaving effort inspired by the loss of teenage boy who drowned. By DAN KROSSE
W
ith the summer heat cranking up across the Lowcountry, many people will be looking to cool off with a swim. But did you know South Carolina is ranked #9 among the most at-risk states for drownings? The Charleston County Park and Recreation Commission’s (CCPRC) nonprofit partner, the Charleston County Parks Foundation is working hard to save lives by teaching as many people to swim as possible. Almost 4,000 people drown in the U.S. every year. The Genesis Swim Safety Fund has allowed CCPRC and their Foundation to introduce swimming to 400 children every summer throughout rural Charleston County, at times using a portable swimming pool. “The program was sparked from the tragic drowning of a young man named Genesis Holmes who was playing with some friends near a pond in Hollywood,” said CCPRC Business Development Manager Matthew Rosebrock. “Genesis didn’t know how to swim and he fell in by following his friends 400 children each summer learn to swim through the CCPRC’s Genesis Swim Safety Fund named for Genesis Holmes who drowned in Hollywood at the age of 13. 26
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playing near the pond,.” Genesis loved the outdoors and animals according to his mother Jennifer Holmes. At 13, he was already trying to save every stray animal he saw. After the drowning, Rosebrock says Genesis’ mother turned her heartbreak into something amazing for the Charleston County community. She helped start the Genesis Swim Safety Program, and in 2019, the first rural swimming pool in the entire county was opened in Hollywood by CCPRC and named after Genesis. “I am grateful for God’s strength that allowed me to carry on,” Jennifer Holmes said.” I was able to create a legacy for Genesis. I would never have imagined it.” HOW YOU CAN HELP With a mission to improve the quality of life in Charleston County, CCPRC operates over 11,000 acres of property, including regional parks, beach parks, a historic plantation site, landmark fishing piers, waterparks, boat landings, a climbing wall, a challenge course, an interpretive center, an equestrian center, cottages, a campground, a marina, and event facilities. CCPRC also offers a variety of recreational services – festivals, camps, classes, programs, and dog parks. The Charleston County Parks Foundation
The Park and Recreation Opportunity Fund was adopted to provide opportunities for all members of our community who encounter barriers to access our park facilities, programs, and services. The Cultural History Fund supports the CCPRC’s cultural and historical research, preservation, interpretation, and education for diverse audiences with an emphasis on underrepresented CCPRC histories throughout Charleston County Parks. The fund is currently focusing on cultural and historical education opportunities that foster a more equitable society, by expressing a unified narrative of African American history, culture, heritage and art at McLeod Plantation Historic Site. Give to these and the Genesis Swim Safety Program at CharlestonCounty ParksFoundation.org. is the nonprofit arm of the parks that allows people to donate to programs that can further the park system’s mission. “We are looking to provide access to all residents, whether it be in McClellanville, Hollywood, inner-city North Charleston or downtown Charleston,” Rosebrock said. You can give to the Genesis Swim Safety Program at CharlestonCountyParksFoundation.org. When asked how the success of the swim program makes her feel, Genesis’ mother doesn’t hesitate, “I’m full of joy and my eyes are filled with tears of happiness! When I go to the Genesis Pool at the West County Aquatic Center and see so many children swimming, many of them will stop and shout to me, ‘Look Miss Holmes, I’m swimming!’”
SUMMER 2022 | CAROLINA TAILS
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ESTATE PLANNING :: Future
Four Reasons to Make Your Will Today
PL ANN IN AHE AD G
By NATASSIA DONOHUE
A
ugust is National Make-A-Will month, and after the last two years of the pandemic, more Americans are creating wills than ever before. Yet, our partners at FreeWill note that recent surveys show almost two-thirds of people still haven’t made an estate plan. You may be thinking that you don’t need a will, or that you don’t have enough assets to create one. The reality is that no matter where you are in life, or your economic status, there are many reasons to make sure your will and other estate plans are up-to-date. A few minutes of thoughtful time now can make a difference in the lives of your loved ones, your beloved pets, and the causes that matter to you most. Here are some of the top reasons why you should create a will: 1) Decide who will get assets and property, and who will not. Most estates go into probate court, no matter what type of assets you have or who will succeed you. Having a will in place will save your loved ones time and resources, and provide specific instructions to ensure your wishes are met. If someone will be taking on children or pets, this can also help provide them with financial support to care for them. Plus, you can avoid claims on your 28
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estate from those not included in your wishes. 2) Give yourself peace of mind that your loved ones will be cared for after you are gone. Whether pets, underage children, or other family members, designating a guardian in your will can ensure there is no disruption in care and make those transitions easier for everyone. You can enjoy spending time with them now, without having to worry about the future. Pet owners can even designate Charleston Animal Society as future pet guardians through the Pet Safe Pet Trust program. 3) Leave a legacy to support your passion. There are many benefits to including a charitable gift in your estate plan through a bequest, or designating an organization as a beneficiary of a life insurance policy, retirement plan, IRA, 401(k) or other qualified plan. Some planned gifts provide inherent tax benefits, there is no minimum gift required, and it will cost you nothing now. Legacy gifts to Charleston Animal Society can ensure that animals across South Carolina will have a strong advocate well into the future. 4) Using our FreeWill tool, creating a will is easy. Estate planning doesn’t
have to be costly and time consuming. Charleston Animal Society has partnered with FreeWill to offer you a resource that is so easy to use, it takes most people 20 minutes or less. You can even include funeral instructions and designate Charleston Animal Society as a beneficiary, or caregiver for your pets. This tool is 100% free, and generates a legal will that is valid in all 50 states.You can get started today by visiting FreeWill.com/ CharlestonAnimalSociety. Whether you already have an estate plan in place, or have yet to create one, planning to protect what you love is never time wasted. If you’re considering a legacy gift to help animals, we are happy to work with your attorney or estate planner to draft language to ensure your specific wishes and create your legacy of compassion. Don’t wait another day to make your will, create a plan now. For more information and other ways to set up planned giving options, please contact Charleston Animal Society’s Associate Director of Donor Advising, Natassia Donohue, at (843) 329-1558 or email ndonohue@charlestonanimalsociety.org
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CELEBRATION OF LIFE :: Memorials
Celebrating the Life of L I T T L E 2 0 1 2
M A N 2 0 2 2
Toogoodoo 2008 - 2022
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ANIMAL ADVOCATES :: Petco Love Winner
A South Carolina Unsung Hero for Animals
NATIO N WINNE AL R!
By BECCA BORONAT A MOTIVATION TO SAVE LIVES Sam’s motivation to work so hard to save lives can be summed up in one word: Roscoe. Roscoe is the Pitbull mix that Sam rescued after witnessing his previous owner kicking and assaulting the dog. Learning that Pitbulls are among the most at-risk breed in shelters was all it took for Sam to find her calling at the Fairfield County Animal Control & Adoption Center.
Samira (Sam) Yaghi, front row center, was named the National Unsung Hero by Petco Love, winning Fairfield County Animal Control & Adoption Center a $25,000 grant. There are Unsung Heroes all around us, in every community, helping us get one step closer to creating No Kill South Carolina. One of these people is Samira (Sam) Yaghi who volunteers for the Fairfield County Adoption Center in Winnsboro, SC – and was recently named the National Unsung Hero by Petco Love! Sam is a Volunteer Rescue Coordinator for the Fairfield County Animal Control & Adoption Center, driving 90 minutes each way, every day! She is a tireless lifesaver for an underfunded shelter. “Not only does she drive so far after work to come do her unpaid job, that is just as stressful, if not more stressful than her real job, she comes here and does everything for nothing. That’s amazing to me,” said Fairfield County Animal Control & Adoption Center Grants Coordinator Shelley Fentress. The challenges facing Fairfield County’s lifesaving efforts makes Sam’s commitment even more noteworthy. “We bring in normally around 1,800 animals a year, but our shelter is actually built for 25,” said Fairfield County Animal Control & Adoption Center Director Bob Innes. “And the shelter is pretty dilapidated.”
A LIFESAVING MACHINE Workers at the Fairfield County Adoption Center say that since Sam joined the team as a volunteer, they haven’t had to euthanize a single animal due to space. They credit Sam with dramatically decreasing this rural shelter’s euthanasia rate through innovative ideas and lots of hard work. From coordinating transports and fundraising to promoting adoptions across social media, Sam has become a lifesaving machine. “She will even take an animal in hospice care and make sure it has a final good home,” said Fentress. “She just doesn’t stop.” Sam has spent countless hours building relationships with rescues from around the country. This network allows the Fairfield County Adoption Center to transport animals out of Fairfield to homes in other areas. “We don’t have foot traffic at the shelter for adoptions,” Sam said. “When it comes to adoptions, it’s all transfer-related, to shelters not only in the state, but from all over. That is our lifeline.”
Those who work with Sam credit her with improving the lives of over 4,000 animals to date and she’s nowhere near finished with her lifesaving work. “Sam always comes through, finding rescues or homes to take animals,” Innes said. NATIONALLY RECOGNIZED UNSUNG HERO On a cloudy day earlier this year, Sam was surprised to see cameras and Petco Love at the shelter. She soon found out they were there to recognize her amazing work. Covering her face with disbelief, Sam was mobbed with hugs from her co-workers as the Fairfield County Animal Control & Adoption Center was presented with a $10,000 check from Petco Love. That was later bumped up to $25,000 when she was announced as the national winner. “She personifies what an unsung hero is all about,” said world-renowned dog trainer Victoria Stilwell, who was in Winnsboro representing Petco Love. As for Sam? Modest as ever, she said she accepted the award on behalf of everyone she works with who try so hard to save animal lives every single day. To learn more about the inspiring stories of other Unsung Heroes and all the difference that one person can make in creating a better world for pets visit PetcoLove.org/ unsung-heroes. SUMMER 2022 | CAROLINA TAILS
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PARTNERSHIPS :: Saving Lives
Look Who’s Supporting Lifesaving Efforts
PARTN IN ACT ERS ION
By LISA PEARCE
HEALING HEARTWORM AND EMPTY THE SHELTERS The Bissell Pet Foundation has provided medical support to South Carolina dogs suffering from heartworm disease with a two-year $20,000 grant award. This lifesaving medical treatment will cover the cost to save 100 adoptable dogs. Each year, the Animal Society participates in the national Empty the Shelters campaigns subsidized by the Bissell Pet Foundation. Founder Cathy Bissell won’t stop until every pet has a home. Thousands of animals across the country have been adopted due to Empty the Shelters. INCREASING LIFESAVING CAPACITY WITH THE ASPCA The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) has worked in tandem with Charleston Animal Society for many years in response to both manmade disasters such as puppy mill cases, to the devastating effects of hurricanes and flooding saving hundreds 32 CAROLINA TAILS | SUMMER 2022
of vulnerable animals in harm’s way. The ASPCA’s generous $150,000 capacitybuilding award will benefit the greater Charleston area, the state and Southeast region. The multi-year grant award paves the way for a dedicated manager to impact human and natural disasters through 2024. PIONEERING BEHAVIOR TRAINING Undesirable behavior can be one of the many challenges facing shelters across the nation when it comes to presenting adoptable dogs to the public and saving otherwise healthy dogs from unnecessary euthanasia. Charleston Animal Society’s highly trained behavior team led by Donya Satriale, Certified Animal Welfare Administrator (CAWA), and Courtney Larrier, presented a new way of temporarily sheltering the dogs who need a few more weeks or even months of training time before being considered for in-home fostering or adoption. The Sandra Powell Trust has invested $40,000 to create outdoor housing for the dogs who need more time and who may
benefit from a smaller environment outside of the traditional shelter. MAKING HUMANITARIANS, ONE CHILD AT A TIME The Post and Courier Foundation has awarded $25,000 to the education team of Charleston Animal Society in support of teaching compassion. The curriculum is taught at the request of guidance counselors or teachers and uniquely incorporates animals to connect kindness lessons with social emotional learning. Ultimately, the kindness and responsibility in the lessons helps to break the cycle of cruelty or violence giving children a kinder way to interact with animals and in turn, others. The high-impact compassion education team taught over 12,000 compassion lessons in 2021 alone encouraging children to become humanitarians.
Lisa Pearce is the Senior Grants Administrator for Charleston Animal Society.
havana NIGHTS APPL AUSE FOR PAWS
CHARLESTON CITY PAPER VOTED
BEST PARTY 2021
OCTOBER 15, 2022 CHARLESTON GAILLARD CENTER 6:30 - 10:30 PM CHARLESTONANIMALSOCIETY.ORG/GALA
. . . y o j n E OFF-LEASH ADVENTURES
IN YOUR DOG PARKS
C H A R L E S TO N CO U N T Y PA R KS .CO M
