Carolina Tails Magazine Fall 2022

HURRICANE RESPONSE

SC ADOPTION CRISIS

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, Will Howell

Writers: Dan Krosse, Joe Elmore, Kay Hyman, Natassia Donohue, Will Howell, Lisa Pearce, Stephanie Larsen, ASPCA, Carolina Marsh Tacky Association

Photographers: Marie Rodriguez, Jeanne Taylor, Dan Krosse, Will Howell, Kay Hyman, Sean Hawkins, Will Howell, Mike Requidan

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. Linda Bakker

Cara Bibbiani Catherine Brack

Luigi Bravo Caroline Clark

Edward “Ted” Corvey, III, Esq. Martin Deputy Jane Graham Aussie Geer

Hank Greer Laurel Greer

Gerri Greenwood Patricia Henley

Shelly Leeke, Esq. David Maybank, Jr., Esq. Brantley Meier, DC Arlene Morris Richard Murphy Carolyn Murray Robert Nigro Louise Palmer Donald M. Smith George “Pat” Waters

President and CEO: Joe Elmore Media & Marketing Consultant: Dan Krosse, dpk media solutions

sponsorship, please contact Erin Nosker: enosker@ CharlestonAnimalSociety.org or (843) 329-1541.

THE COVER:

Rodriguez)

$5,000

EL JEFE

$1,000

Dear Friends,

With the midterm elections behind us, it got me thinking about the whole concept of “voting.” Not the typical kind of voting many of us just participated in at the polls – but the kind of voting you shower on us each day. Whether it’s the gift of your time, the gift of your home or the gift of your donations –your acts of kindness are votes for Charleston Animal Society and our lifesaving mission and I cannot be more thankful.

On October 15th, your generosity was on full display! That’s when our Applause for Paws Gala shattered all fundraising records for the Animal Society, raising an unprecedented $750,000 (excluding expenses) for the animals. There are so many people to thank including our Gala Committee led by chairwoman Gerri Greenwood, our staff, led by Gala organizer Erin Nosker, our volunteers, led by Andrew Peiffer, and everyone at the Gaillard Center who helped make our “Havana Nights” so special. A special thanks to all of you who attended (See photos and more on pg. 18).

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

I’m always astounded when we begin compiling our stories for each issue of Carolina Tails. There are so many stories to tell, so many animal heroes to thank and we only have 36 pages! One of the heroes we are thanking is the late D.P. Lowther who passed away in September at the age of 89. We remember Lowther for dedicating his life to saving the Marsh Tacky, a rare breed of horse that once roamed freely on our barrier islands (pg. 11).

Learn about the horrifying September dogfighting bust in South Carolina (the largest in state history, pg. 23). Using animal cruelty cases as a clue, can law enforcement do more to connect the dots and stop the next mass shooting tragedy, like what we saw in Uvalde, TX (pg. 14)? We also examine what’s behind the emergency crisis at shelters across South Carolina (pg. 30). On pg. 12, we celebrate a record-breaking Pick Me!

SC statewide adoption event.

Pippin graces our cover and what a story of love and legacy this dog brings (pg. 8). Pippin originally belonged to my late friend and fellow board member Kiara Barnett. Before Kiara lost her battle to cancer, she had already made Pippin a star in Charleston Animal Society’s Firefighter Calendar. Shattered by her sister Kiara’s loss, Donna Moeckel became Pippin’s new mother and continued this photogenic dog’s star-like ways, including this issue’s magazine cover! But most importantly, Donna made sure her sister’s love for her dog and all animals would not be forgotten.

All of us love Thanksgiving and now there’s a way to love it even more, by making it more humane. See our tips on pg. 24. My favorite story details “Project Catification” at Charleston Animal Society (pg. 22). Thanks to the Jackson Galaxy Project, a program of Greater Good Charities, our shelter cats are living even more comfortably during their stay at the shelter.

Finally, don’t miss the winners of our Rescue Brew Contest (pg. 27), or the stories of three cats who survived some close calls (pg. 32).

As you receive this magazine, please remember that we are entering the most important fundraising season for charities like Charleston Animal Society. Giving Tuesday is November 29th, and we have a generous $50,000 gift that will match every donation up to that amount. Then begins our end of year giving campaign, where we humbly ask that you keep us in your giving plan through the holidays.

We wish each of you a joyous holiday season and we thank you for everything you do for the animals.

Board of Directors Chairwoman

GALA COMMITTE L-R Back Row: Sean Hawkins, Natassia Donohue, Will Howell, Andrew Peiffer, Cara Bibbiani, Shannon James, Betsy Halstead, Kay Hyman. Front: Erin Nosker, Luigi Bravo, Louise Palmer, Gerri Greenwood, Laurel Greer, Cristina Guillermo, Caroline Clark

NOT PICTURED: Linda Bakker, Kay Dunn, Jane Graham, Kathi Herrmann, Savannah James, Patricia Henley, Catherine Brack, Linda Wills, Melissa Taylor, Dillard Stevens, Kassandra von Etzdorf, Susan Wallace

VICTORY FOR ENDANGERED SPECIES

Pet Pointers

THE QUEEN’S CORGIS

As billions around the world watched the funeral of Queen Elizabeth II, one moment in particular stood out for animal lovers – the sight of the queen’s corgis awaiting her casket’s arrival on the steps of Windsor Castle, while her pony stood silently watching in a field. The Duke and Duchess of York (Prince Andrew and Fergie) will be taking her two Corgis named Muick and Sandy. Her two other dogs Candy (mixed-breed corgi) and Lissy (cocker spaniel) are also expected to be taken in by royal family and staff.

MONARCH

BUTTERFLIES

DISAPPEARING?

Monarch Butterflies travel thousands of miles as they migrate across North America each year. However, loss of habitat, climate change and urbanization have set off alarm bells for environment experts. The Monarch made the Red List of the International Union for Conservation. We all can help save the Monarch, by planting butterfly-attracting plants. Also, make sure to have different plants like perennials, shrubs, trees, and vines that grow all different heights.

Endangered and threatened species will continue to receive protections – after a federal judge threw out plans by former President Trump’s administration to undo those protections. By contrast, President Biden’s administration said it is moving to strengthen the endangered species act. According to the Associated Press, environmental groups hailed the decision, which they said sped up needed protections and critical habitat designations for threatened species.

AQUAMATION INSTEAD OF CREMATION

If the thought of cremation for your pet makes your stomach turn, there is a new option called “Aquamation.” According to the Palmetto Pet Aquamation website, the procedure is also known as alkaline hydrolysis, “a process similar to what takes place if you buried your pet, just accelerated.” Instead of heat and flames, Aquamation uses a combination of gentle water flow, warm temperature, and a small amount of minerals. According to those offering the service, a pet owner receives 20% more ash using this process than with cremation “because it is clean without carbon discoloration.” Aquamation is available at most area vet clinics upon request.

SAFER TRANSPORTATION FOR ANIMALS?

A California lawmaker is pushing for the safer transportation of animals. The new law would require animal control vehicles and doggy daycare buses to transport animals in humane conditions. This would include air conditioning in hot temperatures, and heat in cold conditions. Like here in South Carolina, there are no minimum standards for transporting dogs and cats in these vehicles.

$3,000 CRUELTY REWARD

Charleston Animal Society is offering a $3,000 reward for the arrest and felony cruelty conviction of those responsible for shooting a German Shepherd on Etheridge Road on Wadmalaw Island around October 17. Anyone with information is encouraged to call (843) 743-7200. Dr. Leigh Jamison led the Animal Society team in saving his life.

CLEAR THE SHELTER

For the 8th consecutive year, Charleston Animal Society joined NBC’s “Clear the Shelter” event August 1 – 31. The national pet adoption drive sponsored by Hill’s Pet Nutrition, encourages shelters to offer fee or low-fee adoptions. Locally, WCBD-TV, Count on 2, led the way for this year’s event, promoting adoptions on-air throughout the month. During the Clear the Shelters “crescendo event weekend,” Charleston Animal Society adopted 151 animals into loving homes!

HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS

It’s that time of year again – time to get every animal in the shelter Home for the Holidays! Charleston Animal Society is once again partnering with Hendrick Automotive Group for this very special adoption campaign.

Come to Charleston Animal Society any time between December 17th and December 23rd, pick out an animal, and our elves will deliver it to your doorstep on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day!

“This is a community tradition that we are proud to be a part of,” said Hendrick Automotive Group Community Relations Director Donald Smith. “To see the faces of children who receive a new cat or dog for the holidays is priceless.”

By NATASSIA DONOHUE

One Dog’s Journey of Love and Legacy MEET PIPPIN

The last thing one would expect to see at Anson’s Restaurant in downtown Charleston is a pair of perfectly pointed, gold-fringed dog ears peeking out from the tabletop in a corner booth. Yet, there sits one of Charleston’s most loveable celebrity pets, Pippin, Charleston Animal Society’s 2021 Rescue Brew Beer Spokesdog. A passing cheeseburger will bring Pippin’s soulful eyes to light, waiting expectantly for his special plate from his owner Donna Moeckel, the owner of Anson’s.

This scene is light years away from when Pippin, who also goes by “Pip,” was found as a scraggly brown dog roaming West Ashley in June 2013. Pip was brought to Charleston Animal Society. His arrival at the shelter couldn’t have come at a better time: just a year prior, Charleston Animal Society made the decision to accomplish the seemingly impossible, making Charleston the first No Kill Community in the Southeast.

After Pip’s recovery, he found the perfect home with Donna’s late sister, Kiara Barnett, who was also one of Charleston Animal Society’s longest serving board members.

LIFE WITH KIARA

For six years, Kiara doted on Pip, bringing him everywhere she went from horse shows to happy hours. Before Rescue Brew came along, Pip had his first brush with fame, being featured in one of Charleston Animal Society’s famous firefighter calendars, sold to raise money for the Society’s lifesaving mission. He became a recognizable fixture next to Kiara at events, his brown, scruffy fur grown out in a soft, wheat colored coat, a true rags-to-riches story. During that time, Donna also became involved with Charleston Animal Society, sharing in Kiara’s passion for animals and

Found wandering the streets, Pippin’s gone on to grace calendars, magazines and even beer cans!

Donna Moeckel took over caring for Pippin after Donna’s sister Kiara Barnett died in 2019.

MARIE RODRIGUEZ

her drive to make a difference for them.

“I still can hear my sister’s voice in some of Charleston Animal Society’s promotional videos --one of the only pieces of her left -- and I love listening to her talk about it,” Donna shared. Like many videos, this one showed Kiara holding Pip in her arms, smiling. “She’s talking freely about how much she believes in the No Kill Community of Charleston, and it’s a true depiction of her, not scripted. It’s about the connection with pets.”

When Kiara was diagnosed with an advanced stage of cancer in late 2018, Donna said Kiara didn’t want to talk about what would happen to her pets – sometimes she didn’t want to talk at all. While Kiara eventually made arrangements for her horses, she knew that her family would do anything for Pip when the time came.

“He goes everywhere with me; I don’t go places he can’t,” Donna states. “It is very special to have him to carry on her memory. I need to give him love for two.”

A SISTER STEPS IN

Kiara passed away in early 2019, and her partner took over caring for Pip. Donna had not had a dog in a long time due to loss, but saying goodbye to Pip after her frequent visits grew increasingly emotional. Donna knew that Pip needed to be hers, and with a blessing from Kiara’s partner, Pip soon took his place at Donna’s side. It was an easy transition, especially considering that Donna and Kiara bore such a resemblance to one another from their looks to their voices. Donna even made sure to leave a water bowl next to the bed for Pip, just as Kiara did.

Donna also continued supporting Charleston Animal Society with Pip. She won the Carolina Tails Cover for Pip at last year’s Gala, just months after Pip became the Rescue Brew Spokespet for 2021 with 29,241 votes! “When the [Rescue Brew] contest started, I put $10,000 as the goal and then it surpassed that,” explained Donna. “I checked the contest constantly – one dog at the end came ahead, and it became like a horse race. I was sending photos of Pip to friends

asking for votes. I wanted to do anything I could to get him to win…it’s very special.”

TRAVELING WITH PIP

From Anson’s to shopping downtown, to his own chaise at Kiawah, Pip truly goes everywhere. He’s even visited Georgia Governor Brian Kemp. Donna makes sure to share Pip’s story of rescue and love, hoping that she and Pip can continue to be philanthropic to help people and animals. She’s considering a “Pip’s Frose” fundraiser, and even entering him into next year’s World’s Cutest Rescue Dog contest hosted by People Magazine. With his track record, we’re sure he’ll be a contender.

“I thought I would spend the rest of my life with my sister, I want her to be part of my legacy, it’s about us, together.” As the photographer approached, Donna pulled Pip into her lap and he put his paws on the table looking up towards hers. “We want to keep helping rescue dogs, rescue animals. It’s Pip’s mission too.”

What Will Happen to Your Pet When You’re Gone?

It’s a difficult question to think about, because many times your family may not be in a position to help take over the care of your animal. With a New Year closing in, please consider looking into Charleston Animal Society’s Pet Safe Pet Trust program that will ensure your pet is cared for if your death precedes your pet’s. For details, contact Natassia Donohue at ndonohue@ charlestonanimalsociety.org.

Pippin’s first starring role came in the arms of Firefighter Josh Allen on the cover of the 2015 Charleston Animal Society Firefighter Calendar.

Hurricane Ian Response

Photos by Bryant Taylor and Patrick Allen

ABOVE: The Charleston Animal Society leadership team is briefed on Hurricane Ian. RIGHT: Partner shelters from around the state agreed to transport some of the Florida cats for adoption.

In late September, before Hurricane Ian bore down on the Southwest Florida coast, Charleston Animal Society sprang into action. Eighty cats and kittens were brought to Charleston Animal Society from the Humane Society of Naples, and the Collier County Domestic Animal Services in Florida. Both shelters were in the direct path of this monster hurricane.

Once the cats were safe in North Charleston, other shelters around the state stepped in to transport many of the cats to their shelters for adoption. These supporting shelters included:

• Albrecht Center SPCA (Aiken)

• Beaufort County Animal Control

• Oconee Humane Society

• Greenville County Animal Care

• Greenville Humane Society

• Greenwood Humane Society

• Pawmetto Lifeline Columbia

HURRICANE IAN

By Dan Krosse

At the same time as the cat rescue, Charleston Animal Society deployed a team and evacuation trailer to Birmingham, AL to transport dogs evacuated from Citrus County, FL to Northern Virginia, at the request of the Bissell Pet Foundation.

Then as Ian made a South Carolina landfall in the Lowcountry, Charleston Animal Society helped evacuate six dogs and puppies from St. Frances Animal Shelter in Georgetown.

“Charleston Animal Society is one of the southeast’s leading disaster response organizations and has formed working partnerships with shelters across the southeast,” said Charleston Animal Society Emergency Response and Preparedness Manager Bryant Taylor. “These shelters, primarily in Florida, have a history of responding to South Carolina’s disaster needs as they arise, making this partnership a model for other states.”

Remembering a Horse Advocate Hero

Tackies were being removed from South Carolina’s coastal islands, he didn’t have a long range plan but knew that he had to go get them. He loved these little horses and didn’t want to see them lost or neglected. This collection eventually grew to well over 100 horses, giving him the unsolicited claim to fame as owner of the largest herd of Marsh Tacky horses in the United States. What started as a hobby, became a lifestyle and forever linked the name “D.P. Lowther” with “Marsh Tacky.”

Because of Lowther and other families who also appreciated the Marsh Tacky breed, the Carolina Marsh Tacky Association (CMTA) was formed in 2007 with a mission to support and promote the breed.

The paths of Charleston Animal Society and the founder of the Marsh Tacky Association, D.P. Lowther, first crossed in 2019.

It was shortly after the Animal Society learned that four of six horses that had been brought in for rescue, were the distinctive Marsh Tacky breed. At the age of 86, Lowther wasted no time driving 150-miles roundtrip from Ridgeland, SC to North Charleston to help save the four horses.

“The Marsh Tacky is a unique breed of Colonial Spanish Horse found only in South Carolina and is one of the most endangered horse breeds in the world,” according to the Carolina Marsh Tacky Association.

They once roamed freely along the coast, but as development overtook our marshes, the Marsh Tacky population plummeted. Today, there are over 400 Marsh Tackies left. Thankfully, Lowther founded the Carolina Marsh Tacky Association to help to keep the lineage alive. The memorial below was published by the Carolina Marsh Tacky Association.

REMEMBERING A LEGEND

The Marsh Tacky breed lost its greatest advocate on September 20, 2022. David Pratt “D.P.” Lowther, 89 of Ridgeland, S.C., spent a lifetime helping this beloved breed of horse not only survive, but also be recognized and appreciated for its many wonderful qualities.

“The toughest horse that ever lived.” That’s how Lowther described the Marsh Tacky. It’s no wonder that he fell in love with the breed as a young boy when his father, a cow farmer and mule trader, acquired a handful.

He hunted with them, competed on them, rode them daily while herding cows and quickly came to understand their special qualities. He liked how they were thinking horses that assessed unusual situations before reacting. He admired their extra push and willpower that other horses didn’t seem to have. In his own words: “You could ride some of these horses all day long in the bushes and briars and swamps and they would never break a sweat.”

When Lowther heard that feral Marsh

In 2010, after many years of advocating for the breed and its historical value to South Carolina, the CMTA (and Lowther) efforts appeared to make a difference. A bill was signed into law by then-Gov. Mark Sanford officially recognizing the Marsh Tacky as the State Heritage Horse of South Carolina. Lowther simply loved his Marsh Tackies. He enjoyed starting his day having breakfast with Mrs. Dan, his wife, where just outside the window he could see his horses grazing peacefully in the pastures. He welcomed visitors to his farm any time, and he was very generous to many people who were interested in owning a Marsh Tacky. He also helped many new owners start their own breeding program.

Today, the breed has grown to well over 400 registered horses. There are Marsh Tackies living as far north as New York and as far west as Mississippi. We are forever grateful to Lowther, whose love for a unique and special horse has been and will be passed on for many generations to come. In Lowther’s own words: “Everybody ought to be riding a Marsh Tacky.”

This article is in memory of D.P. Lowther, 89, who spent his life helping to save the Marsh Tacky horse, unique to South Carolina.

D.P. Lowther dedicated his life to saving the Marsh Tacky, a rare breed of horse that once roamed freely on South Carolina’s barrier islands. At the age of 86, D.P. Lowther drove 150 miles roundtrip to come help rescue four Marsh Tackies at Charleston Animal Society.

JACKEI MCFADDEN

Pick Me! SC Shatters Adoption Records

Largest statewide dog and cat adoption event in the US

By DAN KROSSE

The statewide Pick Me! SC adoption event broke all records July 8 -17, with dozens of shelters, rescue organizations and Petco locations around the state joining forces for this amazing lifesaving event — the largest statewide adoption campaign of its kind in the entire country.

The 10-day event is powered by Petco Love, in partnership with BOBS from Skechers. Pick Me! SC is organized by No Kill South Carolina 2024, an initiative of Charleston Animal Society. The goal was to save 1,500 lives through adoptions and this year that goal was smashed, with 2,338 dogs and cats finding new homes. Most shelters and adoption centers offered “no-fee” or “low-fee” adoptions as part of this lifesaving event.

“We love scheduling this in the summer

because that is traditionally the most difficult time of year for animal shelters and rescue organizations,” said the Chief Project Officer of No Kill South Carolina 2024 Abigail Appleton, PMP, CAWA. “Shelters are packed with friendly pets waiting to join families and Pick Me! SC gives them the chance to find loving homes.”

Petco stores hosted shelters and rescue organizations to reach even more potential adopters. Almost every Petco location across South Carolina participated in Pick Me! SC.

LIFESAVING SPAY-NEUTER SURGERIES

As part of Pick Me! SC, more than 200 animals around the state were spayed or neutered to prepare them for adoptions. “Many smaller, rural shelters can’t afford these surgeries, so Petco Love

has provided funding for our team to go around the state and offer these spayneuter events for shelter pets,” Appleton said. The Spay-Neuter outreach helped every region of the state.

5TH PICK ME! SC ADOPTION EVENT

Many people who adopted during Pick Me! SC, shared that they had never visited their local shelter before they saw this adoption campaign. Organizers hope people will continue to see the value that shelters bring to their individual communities.

“We want to thank our sponsors, Petco Love and BOBS from Skechers, plus everyone who went to a shelter or a Petco Store to give these homeless animals a real chance at happy, healthy lives,” Appleton said.

Nicknamed the “little gentleman” for his calm and positive nature, Reuben was adopted from North Shore Animal League America.

Shortly after moving into his forever home, Reuben needed emergency surgery to repair a ruptured spinal disc.

Animal Cruelty Often Foreshadows Mass Shootings

By DAN KROSSE

For years, researchers have shown a direct correlation between violence toward animals and violence toward humans.

Two recent mass shootings prove this point. As reported by Time, Newsweek, ABC News, and many other media outlets, the 18-year-old Uvalde gunman posted videos of cats he had killed and he was witnessed by friends hurting dogs in the months and years before he allegedly murdered 19 schoolchildren and two teachers at an Uvalde, TX elementary school.

“He would go to the park and try to pick on people, and he loved hurting animals,” the gunman’s classmate Jaime Arellano told the Daily Beast.

It was much the same story for the white teenager in Buffalo, New York who is charged with killing 10 black shoppers at a supermarket in the racially motivated massacre. That gunman also bragged online about hurting cats and other animals.

RESEARCH IS SOLID

As Time magazine reports, “Research has long identified animal cruelty as a strong predictor of subsequent violence against persons, finding that animal abusers are as much as five times more likely to harm humans.”

A review of school shootings from 1988 to 2012 found that 43% of the shooters had histories of animal cruelty.

The perpetrator of the 2018 high school massacre in Parkland, FL was a chronic animal abuser as well.

LAW ENFORCEMENT CHALLENGES

Taking notice of the research linking violence against animals to violence against humans, the FBI began tracking animal cruelty cases more closely in 2016. Before then, animal cruelty was grouped under “all other offenses.”

The FBI’s National Incident-Based Reporting System (NIBRS) began collecting detailed case information on felony animal cruelty incidents from participating law enforcement agencies. However, the NIBRS has its critics because not every police agency is sending in this important data for tracking and many felony cases are pled down to misdemeanors, bumping them out of the system.

More than 10 years ago, a study

CONNECT THE DOTS

by the ASPCA found only 20% of law enforcement officers had received animal cruelty training. Less than half were familiar with animal cruelty laws.

The study went on to conclude that much of law enforcement leadership see animal cruelty cases as a “low priority.” In South Carolina, animal control officers are not required to complete formal training as are sworn officers

CONNECTING THE DOTS

In an article on the FBI’s Law Enforcement Bulletin – experts write that “Having a thorough understanding of animal cruelty, the associated investigations, and the applicable codes is essential — not only for the success of animal cruelty cases but other cases as well.

Officers will possibly encounter multiple moving parts and overlapping investigations when they suspect animal cruelty or another crime that indicates animal cruelty.

A multidisciplinary, cross-reporting approach to animal cruelty as well as to other crimes involved with animal cruelty creates an opportunity to save lives.”

FBI experts say, “Having background knowledge of the link between animal cruelty and violence can make a considerable difference in an investigation, and several key agencies can work together in a multidisciplinary team to achieve this goal.”

Agencies that include Child protective services, animal protection groups, veterinarians, domestic violence shelters, medical providers, and law enforcement. If they work together they can share information that could stop the next mass shooting.

Stronger Laws Can Mean Better Lives for Animals

By STEPHANIE LARSEN,

Action League

MY TURN

effects of tethering, and second by providing them with the necessary resources such as getting them into community programs like Charleston Animal Society’s Pets for Life program.

Our second goal is to get an updated definition of what Basic Care constitutes. We want the law to clearly state what is acceptable shelter, and what is not. For example, a picnic table or an abandoned car cannot count as a dog’s shelter its entire life. If a dog is going to spend its entire life in an enclosure, it should have enough space to turn around and stand without hitting its head on the roof.

OTHER ISSUES ON THE RADAR

From pet-friendly beaches, to hotels, parks, and the dozens of restaurants that always have a fresh bowl of water ready for your pup, it’s no surprise that throughout Charleston County, dog lovers have a variety of options for fun and comfort with their canine companions

But there’s one area where we fall short, and it’s probably in the most impactful way.

TOUGHER ANIMAL PROTECTION LAWS NEEDED

South Carolina ranks 44th out of 50 for worst states for Animal Protection Laws, according to a 2021 report from the Animal Legal Defense Fund. Recently though, several counties in South Carolina have updated their animal welfare laws and Charleston County needs to do the same.

In Charleston County, it is legal to tie a dog to a tree for its entire life. Drive around the county and you will see dogs tied with heavy logging chains to abandoned porches or you will see them living under decks or abandoned cars. While you may want to call animal control, their hands are tied because no law is being broken.

While there is a state definition for “shelter,” it’s not detailed. This leads to animals being sheltered using inadequate

or unsafe means. Some counties have made the definition stronger and more common sense. It’s time for Charleston County to do the same.

This is why the Charleston Animal Legislative Action League was created. Our mission is to educate our community on the lack of animal welfare laws, and to influence our local politicians to pass stronger ordinances. The dogs in our community don’t have a voice and we know it’s up to us and our community members to advocate for them.

TAKING ACTION

The first ordinance we hope to pass is an updated “humane tethering” ordinance. Dogs that are tethered their entire lives often develop severe behavior problems from long-term confinement and lack of socialization or exercise. Sadly, the victims of tethered dog attacks are most often neighborhood children who approach the dog unaware of the risks.

We also know that just because a dog is tethered its entire life does not mean the owners don’t care. Our goal is not just to update our laws, but to also collaborate with our community resources to work with dog owners to improve their current situations. First by educating our community members on the negative

While this is our current focus, we also plan to take down puppy mills and enact stronger penalties for animal cruelty.

By passing these updated ordinances, our law enforcement can take action and have a clear law to stand behind in court. Unfortunately, when you call animal control today, even if they don’t agree with what they see, because there are such limited laws around animal welfare, they legally cannot do anything.

We’ve spent the last six months speaking to and learning from other counties in South Carolina, and throughout the US, who have successfully passed stronger animal welfare laws. We’ve had very productive meetings with Charleston County Animal Control and the President and CEO of the Charleston Animal Society, as we continue to get this important message out to our community.

Our goal is to present our first two updated ordinances in the hopes of getting them passed in late 2022.

Over 5000 counties and cities in the United States have enacted stronger animal welfare laws and we believe that it’s time for Charleston County to live up to its reputation as a wonderful place for dogs to live.

www.alal.info

A humane tethering ordinance for Charleston County is a top priority for the Charleston Animal Legislative Action League.

Charleston Animal Legislative

Hope Ignites for Animals in Rural Communities

By LISA PEARCE

WILL HOWELL

HELPING HANDS

start the conversation about recommended care and things to watch for that may require a visit to the vet. We’re out there helping the overall health of the community, it’s a good feeling.”

THE IMPACT OF HELPING HANDS

Charleston Animal Society’s outreach and shelter medical teams are familiar with the symptoms of the lack of care available to families. In 2021 alone, they helped 1,209 people care for their pets providing medical consultations and treatments to 826 grateful families.

“The two most prevalent obstacles facing the public in our service area are accessibility and affordability, especially in our rural communities,” Roman said.

An exciting opportunity for animal loving families living in the far reaches of Charleston County will continue thanks to PetSmart Charities.

Helping Hands for Rural Paws (HHRP) extends quality services beyond clinic walls and shelters. Paused during the pandemic, this outreach program offers a connection to affordable veterinary care where little to none exists.

The Charleston Animal Society project is an initiative of PetSmart Charities seeking to break down barriers across the country giving access to veterinary care to thousands of animals living in rural communities.

Charleston Animal Society was awarded grant funding to connect outreach and medical services via Simon’s Rig, a mobile, spay and neuter clinic. Four resourcesparse communities were identified to help people and their pets. Two (Johns Island and Wadmalaw Island) are in southwest Charleston County and will include service to barrier island families and the other two areas in are in adjacent Berkeley and Dorchester counties. Each area has vulnerable populations with nearly

26% living below the poverty level (US Census 2020) with limited or no access to veterinary care.

HELPING HANDS REIMAGINED

Since 2018, Helping Hands for Rural Paws has been there to connect thousands of families with reduced-fee or free veterinary services including, spay/neuter, vaccines, microchips, and wellness exams. Each clinic event is staffed by Charleston Animal Society’s medical team, Pets for Life team and trained volunteers.

“PetSmart Charities’ generous grant has allowed for a reimagining of how HHRP can help even more people and their pets,” said Charleston Animal Society Vice President of Operations and Strategy Aldwin Roman, CAWA.

Charleston Animal Society Director of Veterinary Care Margaret Morris, DVM loves the program because it takes services beyond the walls of the shelter and into the community.

“It’s gratifying to be there for a person who rescued two kittens that were born in his neighborhood,” said Morris. “I was able to

Charleston County is a sprawling 1,000 square mile area whose rural outreaches include farmland, pine forest swamps and coastline. Veterinarians are clustered in urban areas, leaving rural residents with travel challenges if they need a vet appointment. Further, the influx of human population to our municipalities and state has done little to address the shortage of veterinarians as South Carolina ranks 46th in veterinarians per capita.

“Our aim is to problem solve. The Helping Hands for Rural Paws team seeks to be a remedy to the negative impact on animals and their people who face barriers to accessing affordable veterinary care,” Roman said. “We recognize that people will sacrifice meeting their own basic needs before their pets who are seen as family members.”

Thanks to PetSmart Charities, Helping Hands for Rural Paws will connect isolated and often forgotten communities to affordable or free veterinary care improving the lives of pets and their people.

Lisa Pearce is Charleston Animal Society’s Senior Grants Administrator and the President of the South Carolina Chapter of the Grant Professionals Association.

People who live in rural areas struggle to find veterinary care, making Helping Hands for Rural Paws events so valuable for families who love their pets

SIMON'S RIG IN ACTION

Five years ago, Charleston Animal Society received an incredible gift from Board Members Hank and Laurel Greer, the Simon Greer Mobile Spay-Neuter Clinic.

Since March 3, 2017, "Simon's Rig" has traveled more than 6,300 miles across South Carolina with one lifesaving mission in mind: the prevention of unwanted puppies and kittens through surgeries.

Named in honor of their cat Simon, the mobile unit has traveled to 13 counties (some multiple times) across South Carolina to help pets in underserved areas.

Charleston Animal Society Hosts Record-Breaking Gala

By DAN KROSSE

Music, dancing and fundraising were the recipe for success at the third annual Applause for Paws Gala at the Gaillard Center in Charleston October 15th.

The crowd roared with applause when Gala Chairwoman Gerri Greenwood told the audience, “We are here to save the lives of the most vulnerable of God’s creatures, innocent animals who have no voice of their own. We touch the lives of over 15,000 animals each year.” The Gala raised more than $750,000, excluding expenses, for the animals.

The Havana Nights Gala was presented by Hank & Laurel Greer and Fetch Pet Insurance. Major sponsors include Blackbaud, Charleston Carriage Horse Advocates, Minero Mexican Grill & Cantina, Caroline Clark, 4 Legs Foundation, Linda Lear and John Nickum, Valerie Luther, Arlene Morris and Colin John Campi, Pat and Martha Waters. Over 600 participants put on their tuxedos and cabana-style attire for the “Havana Nights” evening.

Carolyn Murray, WCBD News 2 Anchor and Charleston Animal Society Board Member, served as the mistress of ceremonies and Doug Warner conducted the live auction.

During the “VIP Experience,” preceding the formal program, the City of North Charleston and the Town of Mount Pleasant were recognized for earning the Mars Better Cities for Pets™ certification this year, exemplifying cities that go above and beyond to make their municipalities more pet-friendly.

State Representative Leon Stavrinakis and City of North Charleston Council Chairman Ron Brinson were recognized during the main event for championing the initiation of the Animal Society’s long-term project to expand its campus to provide critical access to care to both

HAVANA HIGHTS

ABOVE: Generous bidding during the auction helped raise thousands of dollars for Charleston Animal Society’s lifesaving mission. BELOW: The crowd danced the night away to the old-school tunes of “First Class Band.”

local families and other South Carolina animal shelters that are struggling to care for animals.

“To see the tremendous care and concern that our community has for the plight of animals is gratifying and hopefully our elected officials will take notice that much needs to be done ,” said Charleston Animal Society President and CEO Joe Elmore. “Everyone who lives in Charleston County should be so proud

of our community. Every day we see support on every level, whether it is the gift of time, the gift of homes or the gift of donations. We are so thankful.”

The Gala’s “Fund a Need” portion of the program told the story of Lilly, a severely injured dog who was saved by the Charleston Animal Society team and is being adopted by Ron and Peggy Brinson. The Board of Directors matched $35,500 in donations for “Fund a Need.”

PHOTOS BY MIKE REQUIDAN, TAG YOUR PIX

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Ron Brinson and his wife Peggy hold Lilly as Charleston Animal Society Board Member Cara Bibbiani tells how Lilly was saved by the Animal Society after having her jaw and eye socket broken. Gala Chairwoman Gerri Greenwood shared the stage with Pico, a rescued dog featured during the evening. State Rep. Leon Stavrinakis (center) was in attendance with Charleston Animal Society President and CEO Joe Elmore (L) and Board Member Hank Greer (R). The “Havana Nights” theme inspired more than 550 guests to step out in style at the Gala.

Operation Catification

By DAN KROSSE

The cats at Charleston Animal Society weren’t quite sure what was happening. All they could see were a team of people in bright orange shirts adding shelves and cool looking cubbies to the shelter’s cat adoption area. Little did the cats know, they were at ground zero for “Operation Catification.”

After hosting a training at the shelter in March, The Jackson Galaxy Project, a program of Greater Good Charities, designed renovation plans for the cat spaces in Charleston Animal Society using its Operation Catification design principles. The renovation at Charleston Animal Society is made possible by Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health USA, Inc. and is being completed by Greater Good Charities’ Rescue Rebuild team.

“Operation Catification is an initiative of The Jackson Galaxy Project

— Chief Lifesaving Officer Pearl Sutton

that incorporates design principles to help achieve the ultimate in feline and human mojo, to help increase shelter visits and cat adoptions, but more importantly, it is part of a holistic approach to caring for cats in shelters,” said TV’s Cat Daddy Jackson Galaxy, who visited Charleston Animal Society while the project was underway.

According to Galaxy’s website, “Catification” is the art of making aesthetic and spatial changes and adjustments to a shelter (or your home) that meet the needs of both you and your cat.

Galaxy encourages people to create spaces that really satisfy your cat’s primal instincts and challenge them the way being outdoors does. Your cat’s instincts propel them to jump, perch, climb, play, sleep, eat, hunt, and ultimately, provide

CAT’S MEOW

a complete feeling of confidence that comes with a sense of territorial ownership.

Now cats at Charleston Animal Society have new shelves to jump on, cubbies to climb in, frosted glass for privacy and even shades that can be drawn when a cat is overstimulated in the shelter environment.

“Many adopters have told us how warm and friendly the catification has made them feel, as they’re visiting with our cats,” said Charleston Animal Society Chief Lifesaving Officer Pearl Sutton. “It’s been a joy to watch the cats play on the catwalk and snuggle in their new beds.”

The Jackson Galaxy Project is a program of Greater Good Charities that seeks to improve the lives of cats at risk and help the people who care for them through innovative initiatives that educate, inspire and empower staff, rescuers and adopters.

Operation Catification took about 10 days to complete and was led by the Rescue Rebuild team and local volunteers from the North Charleston area.

TOP LEFT: The Rescue Rebuild team spent 10 days on “Operation Catification” at Charleston Animal Society.

ABOVE: “Cat Daddy” Jackson Galaxy says everyone can “catify” their home by creatively using spaces that appeal to cats’ natural climbing and hiding instincts.

DAN KROSSE

DAN KROSSE

“MANY ADOPTERS HAVE TOLD US HOW WARM AND FRIENDLY THE CATIFICATION HAS MADE THEM FEEL. IT’S BEEN A JOY TO WATCH THE CATS PLAY ON THE CATWALK AND SNUGGLE IN THEIR NEW BEDS.”

Largest Dogfighting Bust in SC History

IN LATE SEPTEMBER, a joint team of more than 60 federal and state law enforcement officers executed nearly two dozen warrants for various properties in the Midlands area in what is believed to be the biggest takedown of a dogfighting operation in South Carolina history.

On day one of the raid, officers with the operation interrupted a scheduled dogfighting match in Richland County. The following morning, the officers executed 23 search warrants at various residences and properties in Richland, York, Orangeburg, Clarendon, Lee, and Sumter Counties that were known dogfighting kennels or associated with dogfighting.

In total 305 dogs were rescued over that weekend, with 275 believed to be associated with dogfighting. The Humane Society of the United States and Bark Nation supported the operation by assisting with animal handling and are currently assisting with the care of the animals. During the weekend operation, officers seized approximately 30 firearms,

$40,000 in cash, and various evidence related to dogfighting. More than 20 individuals were arrested for state charges relating to animal cruelty and dogfighting.

“To force dogs to fight, often to the death, for the enjoyment of others is not only a federal crime, it is also cruel, sadistic, and can create a haven for other illicit activities involving drugs and firearms,” said U.S. Attorney Adair F. Boroughs. “This joint operation, which has been months in the making, makes clear that dogfighting operations will find no refuge here in South Carolina.”

The Animal Welfare Act makes it a felony punishable by up to five years in federal prison to fight dogs or to possess, train,

sell, buy, deliver, receive, or transport dogs intended for use in dogfighting.

“Even after the many years we have worked to protect dogs from the calculated brutality that dogfighting perpetuates, our responders are still struck by the resilience of these dogs who have suffered unthinkable cruelty,” said Kitty Block, President and CEO of the Humane Society of the United States. “We are grateful to the federal and state officials for intervening on behalf of these dogs and for the opportunity to work together to get them the care they deserve.”

Authorities say the investigation into dogfighting in South Carolina continues.

“TO FORCE DOGS TO FIGHT, OFTEN TO THE DEATH, FOR THE ENJOYMENT OF OTHERS IS NOT ONLY A FEDERAL CRIME, IT IS ALSO CRUEL, SADISTIC, AND CAN CREATE A HAVEN FOR OTHER ILLICIT ACTIVITIES INVOLVING DRUGS AND FIREARMS,”

— U.S. Attorney Adair F. Boroughs

COURTESY HSUS

Let’s Talk Turkey

FACTORY FARM TURKEYS

With all these interesting facts about turkeys, there are some that are troubling:

• Turkeys raised on factory farms -industrial facilities that raise large numbers of animals in intensive confinement – are so packed together in barren sheds that they are not able to run, explore, socialize or engage in almost any of their natural behaviors.

THANKSGIVING IS A TIME TO GATHER WITH FAMILY AND FEAST. FOR MANY, A ROASTED TURKEY IS A LONGSTANDING TRADITION. BUT BEFORE YOU ASK FOR THE TURKEY PLATTER, HERE ARE SOME FACTS ABOUT TURKEYS TO CONSIDER, ACCORDING TO OUR FRIENDS AT THE ASPCA.

TURKEYS IN THE WILD

• Turkeys are smart, sensitive and very social. In fact, they are very affectionate and create lasting social bonds with each other.

• A turkey’s head color will change from white to blue to red, depending on their emotions. White and blue means they are relaxed and content. Red means they are angry.

• Turkeys have over 20 distinct vocalizations and only male turkeys gobble. Female turkeys cluck like chickens when they have something to say, purr like cats when they are content, and yelp when they are excited or upset.

• A male turkey’s gobble can be heard over a mile away.

• You can tell if a turkey is a male

or female by its poop. A male’s droppings will be shaped like the letter J. A female’s droppings are more of a spiral.

• Turkeys can hear low-frequency and distant sounds better than humans.

• Turkeys can see colors, and their eyesight spans 270 degrees. Overall, their vision is three times better than the vision of humans.

• Turkeys have beards. They are actually modified feathers that form bristles or filaments. Their beards can grow up to five inches each year.

• Turkeys can run up to 25 miles per hour.

• Turkeys can learn and remember the details of an area over 1,000 acres large.

• Today’s modern turkey is bred to provide an unnatural amount of meat. The weight of the average turkey raised for food in the U.S. has more than doubled: from 13 to 30 pounds since 1930. This intentional breeding for breast-heavy birds prevents turkeys from flying and causes painful physical ailments, trouble walking and breathing difficulties.

• Factory-farmed turkeys are now so disproportionately shaped that they can no longer mate with one another naturally and must be artificially inseminated.

• Turkeys raised in barren factory farms have the tips of their beaks cut off to reduce harmful feather-pecking of their flock mates, which unfortunately happens when large numbers of birds have absolutely nothing else to do.

The good news is you don’t have to support factory farms at Thanksgiving or any time of year. The ASPCA lists all of the widely available, welfare-certified turkey brands and some very tasty plant-based turkey products on their “Shop with Your Heart” grocery list at ASPCA.org/ shopwithyourheart

Reprinted with permission from the ASPCA.

1944 - 2022

PETER WATERS

the

RAY ANDERSON

"We can judge the heart of a man by his treatment of animals."

life ofCELEBRATING

“We keep this love in a photograph We made these memories for ourselves Where our eyes are never closing Hearts are never broken And time's forever frozen, still”

I loved you your whole life I’ll miss you for the rest of mine Cancer Bites

2023 Rescue Dog of the Year

PEDIGREE Foundation is proud to announce the 2023 Rescue Dog of the Year, Ciri – a dog rescued through Charleston Animal Society! This gorgeous Husky pup is a shining example of all of the lives that a rescue pup can touch before she finds her family.

Ciri was found wandering around a South Carolina state park by a concerned pet lover who also happened to be a PEDIGREE Foundation volunteer. It’s through the power of relationships like the one that Charleston Animal Society has with PEDIGREE Foundation, that we were able to help rescue her and eventually introduce her to her family. Ciri’s full story will be available in our next Carolina Tails issue, and you won’t want to miss it. As a proud recipient of grant support from PEDIGREE Foundation, we are so glad we can help amplify the importance of adoption and supporting local shelters.

Ciri even has her own toy you can now buy, just in time for the holidays. To shop Ciri’s commemorative plush, and collect all of previous years’ plushes, visit the PEDIGREE Foundation Dogs rule.™ store at dogsrulestore.

com. To see more about the work PEDIGREE Foundation does to help more dogs find loving homes or to donate to PEDIGREE Foundation, visit pedigreefoundation.org.

Ciri, rescued through Charleston Animal Society is the 2023 PEDIGREE Rescue Dog of the Year!

Rescue Brew Winners Announced

By WILL HOWELL

AFTER TWO MONTHS OF NOMINATIONS, CAMPAIGNING, AND VOTING WE FINALLY HAVE OUR WINNERS FOR THE 2022 RESCUE BREW BEER CONTEST.

This year, we had a record number of 709 entrants who raised a total of $81,699 for Charleston Animal Society’s No Kill South Carolina 2024 initiative, helping make our state a friendlier place for animals.

When the voting phase closed in September, the public selected three cats and three dogs as the finalists in the running for Spokescat and Spokesdog respectively.

Each $1 donation counted as one vote to the dog or cat of the voter’s choice. From sharing their cutest pictures, making hilarious TikToks, and fundraising tirelessly in the final days of the contest, entrants employed all manner of creativity as they campaigned for their pets to be selected as finalists.

A total of 561 dogs were able to raise a combined $56,888, with 148 cats entering to raise $17,715 in the race to be named the official Spokespets for Rescue Brew 2022.

AND THE WINNERS ARE…

Beaux, a 10-month-old Maine Coon from Kiawah Island raised an incredible $3,415 for homeless animals and will have his photo on Rescue Brew. As for the dogs? Wally, a seven-year-old West Highland terrier-mix rescued during Hurricane Matthew, managed to raise $5,051 and will have his sweet face on Rescue Brew!

The other cat finalists included Rocky, a one-year-old gray tabby from Mount Pleasant who raised $1,495 and Pickles (AKA Mr. P), a 10-year-old black cat from Charleston who raised $2,259.

The canines finishing just behind Wally include Kaizoku, a three-year-old one-eyed rescue dog from Downtown Charleston who raised $4,318 and

Monty, a one-year-old miniature poodle from Sullivan’s Island who brought in $4,495.

A judging panel, made up of representatives from sponsors WCSC Live 5 News, Palmetto Brewing Company and Charleston Animal Society, picked the Grand Prize-winning Spokesdog and Spokescat from the finalists.

A special thank you to sponsors Palmetto Brewing Company, Charleston City Paper, Southern Crown Partners, Cupcake DownSouth, and WCSC Live 5

News who made this event possible. You can continue to help us save more animal lives, as a portion of each Rescue Brew sale will benefit No Kill South Carolina 2024 partners Charleston Animal Society, Pawmetto Lifeline and Greenville Humane Society. NKSC’s goal is to save every healthy and treatable dog and cat in our state by 2024. For details on where to purchase this special beer, visit CharlestonAnimalSociety.org/ Rescue-Brew

Meet the Man Behind the e-Carriage

By NATASSIA DONOHUE

KYLE BEAR&

The summer issue of Carolina Tails featured the e-carriage — an electric carriage that could be a welcome addition to the tourism industry in Charleston — if city officials would give the carriage a chance. The response to the article was overwhelming, with many people commenting on how they would like to see this kind of alternative to horse-drawn carriages, especially in the heat of the summer. In this issue, we thought we would share more about the e-carriage inventor, Kyle Kelly, including his second passion, visiting patients at MUSC Hospital with his therapy dog Bear.

CAROLINA TAILS: You and your dog Bear are part of the MUSC Therapy Dog Team. Can you tell us more about Bear and the process to get him certified as a therapy dog?

KYLE KELLY: Bear is a Bernese Mountain Dog, and he is 10.5 years old; I’ve had him since he was seven weeks. He was a little goofy and all over the place, so I didn’t get him certified until he was five. I just thought I’d give it a shot. We’re certified through Alliance Therapy Dogs, a nationally recognized organization, and went through the process over three weeks right in Mount Pleasant.

CT: What is it like to be on a therapy dog team?

KK: Once we were certified, we decided where we wanted to go. Therapy teams go to hospitals, nursing homes, schools, even airports. Now we mainly go to MUSC main campus; we have an all-access pass to both the adult and children’s hospitals. Sometimes we do the night shift, which is huge because the night staff doesn’t get to experience pet therapy as often. Cheering people up–people always remember that moment. They always remember when a therapy dog visits them in the hospital, especially kids. Bear and I, at the very least, are a good distraction on someone’s bad day. If we can make the world a better place, why not?

CT: You also run Uncle Kyle’s Sweater Emporium. It’s filled with fun, friendly, fantastically ugly sweaters. Did you know a sweater store would be a hit in Charleston?

KK: I had several stores in various parts of New York, and every time I opened one, I named it after a different family member. But I didn’t have one named after me, so I just decided it was my turn! The store has been part of the Charleston community for almost nine years. We’re constantly growing and evolving-the new change this year is the seemingly endless array of vintage starter jackets. It’s a good thing we recently moved to a new storefront at 261 King Street, with about 10,000 square feet of space. I have a hoverboard to get around it (literally).

CT: So how long before one of your electric carriages can be seen passing by the store – can you give us an update on eCarriages of Charleston?

KK: There’s been a lot of buzz in New York City lately. I am in the process of building a different style for other cities that have requested it, like New York and Philadelphia. I am working on one for those cities and I want it to be perfect –you learn so much from the first one to the next one. Especially since working with New York, the momentum up there is very impressive. I’ve started other prototypes for Charleston. Every city has their own ordinances and laws, so it’s just a matter of Charleston choosing to move forward and support this instead of creating unnecessary obstacles.

CT: What has driven you to make a difference in the community? Any advice for others?

KK: We only get so much time here, and if I can make the world a better place,

then why not? Especially having horses growing up, I want to make a difference. You can see it in real life, it sucks for the horses. With that and my business mindset, I saw an opportunity. People see things and opportunities, but the next step is to act on it. You just have to act on it.

CT: If Bear could tell us anything about you, what would it be?

KK: Whether it is business, taking care of Bear, relationships, or sports. I don’t do anything half-way. I’m all in.

Crisis at Shelters Across the State

By DAN KROSSE

Pitbull type dogs are flooding shelters at a rate beyond demand for adoption. This is one of the challenges leading to overcrowded shelters

For the second summer in a row, Charleston Animal Society’s initiative, No Kill South Carolina 2024, along with the South Carolina Animal Care and Control Association (SCACCA) and the South Carolina Animal Welfare Coalition (SCALC) declared a “state of emergency” across South Carolina. Charleston Animal Society President and CEO Joe Elmore explains how shelters reached this critical level.

CAROLINA TAILS: What prompted the statewide emergency?

JOE ELMORE: There are a multitude of factors, similar to a “perfect storm multiplied” that is causing the slow movement of animals, especially dogs over 12 months, into homes throughout South Carolina and most of the country. The convergence of traditional factors and new ones has created an unprecedented challenge for South Carolina animal shelters.

1. Lack of Strong Spay/Neuter Public Policy: Unlike several states that have managed down the overpopulation of companion animals, South Carolina does not have a statewide public policy that incentivizes and/or mandates sterilization.

2. Out of Balance Pit Bull Type Dog Population: Similar to wildlife overpopulation issues, Pit Bull Type Dogs (PBTDs) are disproportionately present in animal shelters and communities. This is simply a supplyand-demand issue; there are far too many PBTDs than there is demand.

3. Economy: during recessions or when the economy is struggling, such as historic inflation rates, families refrain taking on more expense, whether it is retail purchases or adoptions.

4. Under-Resourced Shelters: South Carolina animal shelters have long been under-resourced, especially with the explosion of human population growth

STATE OF EMERGENCY

in our state. Companion animals increase with human population. Many SC animal shelters were built long ago for a paradigm and environment that has dramatically changed.

5. Veterinary Shortage: the national veterinary shortage has caused delays in sterilizing shelter animals within 30 days of adoption, which is required by law.

6. End of Summer: traditionally, the end of summer creates a lag in community participation, such as blood drives, adoptions, etc., perhaps due to travel, vacations, and other distractions from local community needs.

7. Lingering Covid Pandemic: Reduced spay/neuter efforts to ease the strain on medical supplies for the human healthcare system during Covid has possibly led to more stray animals.

CT: Are we seeing more homeless animals than ever before, or are Animal Control Officers doing a better job, are citizens more aware of strays? What is prompting this unprecedented tide of animals?

JE: We are not seeing more animals than ever before; however, there is an expected increase back to pre-pandemic levels. The challenge is moving the animals into homes.

CT: In other articles, you’ve mentioned that during the height of COVID, shelters like Charleston Animal Society cut back on spay-neuters to save medical supplies for human hospitals. Is this having an impact now on what we are seeing with overcrowding in shelters?

JE: In a study published last month, it suggested that the pandemic may have caused a deficit of more than 2.7 million spay/neuter surgeries nationwide that animal welfare organizations have yet to address.

Cats Who Lived to Meow About It!

By KAY HYMAN & DAN KROSSE

9 LIVES

AN 1,800 MILE U-TURN FROM TEXAS

Kirk Lee had just retired from the Navy in Charleston and had just started his 1,200 mile drive to his retirement home in Texas with his wife Jenny. In the backseat was their cat Simi, who they rescued as a pregnant mother and watched over as she gave birth. Well Simi apparently didn’t want to leave the Lowcountry, because as the Lees drove through Goose Creek, the cat pushed the automatic window button to roll down her window and jumped out. Shocked, the Lees pulled over immediately, but couldn’t find her. Friends searched for weeks with no luck. They continued their journey to Texas heartbroken and Jenny says she cried almost every day. 30 days later, while scouring Lowcountry shelter websites, Jenny spotted Simi up for adoption at Pounce Cat Café in Charleston. Pounce gets all of their cats from Charleston Animal Society. The Lees called immediately, Simi was brought

to the shelter and a tearful reunion took place days later, after an 18-hour drive back from Texas! Talk about true love.

THAT’S NOT A WIG!

Earlier this year, Alex Barry was cleaning out his tow truck at American Towing. As he was putting trash in the dumpster, he saw a pile of hair, thought it was a wig, and walked away. Something in his gut told him to turn around and look again. To his surprise, the pile of hair was a very sickly kitten! He knew that she needed help fast and rushed her to Charleston Animal Society. When our team examined the kitten, she was just over two pounds, barely able to lift her head, and suffering from pneumonia. After she was stabilized and given life-saving antibiotics and oxygen, she was turned over to our team in our kitten ICU. There she received intensive care from Donna Osborne one of our most

experienced long-term employees. Alex and his wife Crystal waited to hear her prognosis and adopted her as soon as she was available. Now named Raven, this kitten loves to have her belly rubbed and can’t get enough of her two doggie brothers Cornet and Ryder.

REUNITED WITH JERRY AFTER TWO YEARS!

Jerry is a special cat who routinely checked on family baby Julia in her crib at night. So, imagine the Sires family’s devastation when Jerry just disappeared in November 2020, at the height of the pandemic. The family thinks a feral cat in the neighborhood spooked Jerry. As they posted on social media, put up flyers in their neighborhood and did everything else they could think of, Morgan Sires, her husband Robbie and their daughters Abby and Julia never gave up hope they’d see Jerry again. Two years later, they got the call they’d been praying for, when Charleston Animal Society rang to tell them they had Jerry! His microchip worked! A pouring rain couldn’t stop the Sires from rushing to the shelter to reunite with Jerry. After 24 months on the road, Jerry was in rough shape, but is doing great!

TOP LEFT: Kirk and Jenny Lee were devastated when their cat Simi jumped out the car window on their move to Texas.

ABOVE: Raven was found in a dumpster and was almost mistaken for a hair wig and ignored!

DAN KROSSE

THERE’S ALWAYS A GRAIN OF TRUTH IN A CLICHÉ, AND AS YOU’LL READ ABOUT HERE, THESE THREE CATS ARE PUTTING THE “CATS HAVE NINE LIVES” CLICHÉ TO THE TEST!