Located in North Charleston, the Charleston Animal Society (CAS) takes in nearly 20,000 of the community’s unwanted animals each year. For 145 years, their mission has remained the same: The Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. CAS became one of the first in the Nation to be a part of the SPCA mission, and have never turned away local animals.
“Our Vision is one where all healthy and treatable animals are saved,” says Lisa Pearce, Grants Administrator. “It’s a vision where all people and animals are treated with respect and kindness. And it envisions a world where cruelty is not tolerated.” Adhering to this, CAS has maintained a No Kill status for five years and continues its lifesaving at a Live Release Rate of over 90% (this is the percentage of animals leaving the shelter alive).
CAS also helps pet parents in need. Ms. Pearce explains a recent case where they helped keep a family together: “Brian came to us when his beloved dog Sadie escaped through the front door and was hit by a car… it could happen to anyone.” Brian brought Sadie to his local veterinary emergency hospital and was stricken when he could not afford the care that she needed. “Desperate, he called the CAS animal resource center to surrender her as a last resort,” Ms. Pearce continues. “We were able to assist with medical expenses and keep Sadie with her family. Her surgery and recovery were remarkable and she’s happy to be back home after a full recovery!” This was all thanks to the assistance given to her humans by Charleston Animal Society’s resource center.
With all the ways CAS supports its community, there are multiple ways to support them in return. They have various funding levels and opportunities to support animal welfare – for example, Caitlyn’s fund helps stop animal cruelty. This fund is dedicated to a stray named Caitlyn, who was found on the streets of North Charleston with her muzzle taped shut. She was dehydrated and starving, but through the devoted work of animal advocates and CAS, Caitlyn is now thriving. There are also charitable initiatives that support behavioral training, medical care, and more. Check out their website to donate or volunteer.
Find out more about the Healthy Paws Foundation, funded through our “every quote gives hope” program, and check out upcoming initiatives here.
