Category Archives: 2026

2026, Adoption, Volunteer

Things I Have Learned From Shelter Dogs

Posted on by Shana Ryberg
18
Sep

Over the years, I have learned some important lessons from the dogs I have met at the Aiken County Animal Shelter.

Number one: Forgiveness.
Take Tug, for example. He was surrendered with several other dogs. Tug had an old fracture that had healed incorrectly and was causing him pain. We amputated his leg, and the very next day he was walking, kissing us and had completely moved on from the painful experience.

Wouldn’t it be great if we lived each day like it was the best new day? What if we could let go of what happened in the past and simply move forward with positivity?

Dogs seem to know how to do that.

Number two: It’s not always about us.
Dogs give love so completely that sometimes it seems as though their happiness comes from making us happy.

Bruno is a fluffy red dog who was surrendered to us with barely any fur and clearly hadn’t had the best life before coming to the shelter. Yet all he wants is to sit on your lap!

He will wiggle over, barely making eye contact, and sit as close to you—or directly on you—as possible, seemingly just hoping to give you comfort and love. It is the sweetest thing ever.

Most of our dogs simply want to make us happy, and that is part of what brings our volunteers back every day. It is incredibly rewarding—and maybe even a little selfish sometimes—because of how much love we receive from animals who have so much love left to give.

Number three: Get over it!
Dogs don’t care if we drive the best cars. They don’t care if we are a little heavier than we used to be. They don’t care if they get steak for dinner.

Dogs just want love.

They don’t need top-of-the-line everything. There are so many ads right now telling us that dogs need refrigerated food, orthopedic beds, supplements and all sorts of other things. Those things are wonderful, and I’m sure dogs appreciate them.

But our shelter dogs are living in kennels.

What they really want is someone to hug them, feed them—kibble is just fine!—and give them a soft place to lie down. A blanket, sofa, bed or your lap are all perfectly acceptable options.

Maybe we humans could stand to simplify things a little, too.

Number four: Don’t judge.
Dogs don’t care if we smell after a run. They don’t care if we’ve had a bad day and don’t feel like talking. They don’t care what we look like, what we own or what kind of day we’re having.

They just love us for who we are.

We can learn a lot from dogs.

If you haven’t experienced the nonjudgmental, unconditional, joyful and endearing love of a dog, you are missing out.

Come volunteer with us. Email info@fotasaiken.org. 

Adopt from us at the Aiken County Animal Shelter, 333 Wire Rd., Aiken, SC.

Whatever you do, get some of that dog love.

You won’t regret it.

Their lives are in our hands.

By Kathy Cagle, FOTAS Programs Coordinator

2026, Doggie Day Out, fostering, group dog play, Volunteer

Making Friends One Dog Walk at a Time

Posted on by Shana Ryberg
Amy volunteering at an adoption event.
10
Sep

In May, 2021 my husband and I decided to sell our home of 32 years in Herndon, Virginia and our property on the Northern Neck of Virginia and move to Aiken, South Carolina to live in the state where my husband grew up. In a fast and furious year, we sold both places and moved into our home in Aiken in May, 2022.

I was a little shell shocked but ready to meet new people and make new friends. For the first several months I was getting to know Aiken and meeting lots of people but feeling I wasn’t “connecting” and began missing my longtime friendships back in Virginia. As time passed, I had the horrible feeling that we made the wrong choice and even asked my husband if he would consider going back. His answer was a hard “No!” He liked the mild weather, enjoyed playing golf and was falling in love with pickleball.

Amy volunteering at an adoption event.
Amy volunteering at an adoption event.

I began reading the Aiken Standard intently looking for articles about local organizations where I could contribute my time and in October 2023 there was an article that caught my eye. The article was about an organization, FOTAS, desperately looking for people to volunteer to walk dogs at the Aiken County Animal Shelter. I thought to myself, “I can walk a dog and maybe there will be other people there walking dogs. And people who care about animals are really good people.” 

So I signed myself and my husband up for the dog walking training. We began walking dogs which I loved more than I realized. The dogs needed the walks and the social connection as much as I did. And then I began to meet people. A wide range of people. Some older, some younger but all were people that I began to look forward to seeing when I went in to volunteer. And then I began to expand that volunteer experience at the shelter where I felt I could help: Doggie Day Outs, short term Fostering, taking a dog to an event, and Play Group support. 

It has been a life changing three years since I saw that article. I am grateful for all the people I have come to know who share their experience, time, a good laugh and give me new perspectives to consider.  I’ve come to realize that every single person at Aiken County Animal Shelter is a valuable asset. Every member of the staff. Every member and volunteer of FOTAS. Every person who donates. All of us are people who care deeply about the animals who come into the shelter. All of us are working towards improving the lives of each animal and making a better future for them while they are in our care. I hope you’ll consider coming out to volunteer. If you do, I’ll be sure to introduce myself when I meet you on the walking trails. I’m glad we moved to Aiken, South Carolina!

Their Lives Are In Our Hands
by Amy Peterson, FOTAS Volunteer

2026, Adoption, Volunteer

Buddy Time: A Little Love That Goes a Long Way

Posted on by Shana Ryberg
Buddy and Adoptable Fred
01
Sep

This is the story of my husband, Buddy — an emotional support human in every sense of the phrase — who volunteers at FOTAS, the Aiken County Animal Shelter. About a year ago, he started spending time with the dogs and cats there, simply sitting with them, talking to them, and giving them the gentle attention they often never knew they needed.

It’s amazing how much a little kindness can change an overwhelmed or frightened animal. Some come in unsure of people, unsure of the shelter, unsure of themselves. Buddy meets them where they are. Many begin their first visit pressed against the door, scared and uncertain.

But slowly, they thaw. Week after week, he sits quietly, offers treats, plays a little, and lets them set the pace. Before long, the same dogs who once trembled in the corner are pulling me out of their kennels and trotting happily to Buddy’s room, tails wagging like little metronomes keeping time with their excitement. They know it’s Buddy Time, and they’re all in.

And here’s the sweetest part: Buddy gets just as much joy from these moments as the animals do. Loving a cat or dog — and being loved back — is a happiness that knows no limits. Those four to six hours he spends at the shelter each week? They’re his favorite hours of all.

Like Champ. He was a challenge even getting through a door, and now look at him — sitting on the couch getting loves.

Or his best friend, Fred. Fred wants nothing more in the world than a lap to cuddle up on, and as you can see, he is in his happy place, too.

If you’re someone who loves cats or dogs and has a few hours to spare, I hope you’ll consider joining him. Just reach out to the Aiken County Animal Shelter at info@fotas.com to ask about volunteering. I promise you won’t regret it.

I hope to see you there — maybe during Buddy Time.

To volunteer with FOTAS please email us at fotasaiken.org.

Their Lives Are In Our Hands.

by Letty Dempsey, FOTAS volunteer

2026, Adoption, ANIMAL CRUELTY

Some adoptions really touch our hearts.

Posted on by Shana Ryberg
Frank loves his new life.
21
Aug
Frank coming into the shelter
Frank comes into the shelter

Frank came to the Aiken County Animal Shelter early this summer with burns on his back.  We posted him on Facebook – a video showing how sweet he is.  Luckily that was viewed by his new amazing adopters!  We had to share this heartwarming pup-date!

“Thank you for checking in. Frank is doing great! Younger than we thought and has some puppy in him but considering what he’s been through, he deserves to play some! We got him in with our vet a couple of days after bringing him home and got some cream for his back. Every vet tech in the building had heard his story and had to come love all over him. Pretty sure that he’s their new favorite. Ha! We’ve used the cream religiously, kept a shirt on him to keep him from licking too much, and we’re happy to say that he has no more scabs and his “lesions” have completely healed. He’s wearing hand-me-downs from our late dog, Clover, but they fit him and are perfect for keeping him from licking his itchy back. A huge thank you to ACAS vets, staff, and FOTAS for taking such great care of him at the shelter.

Frank started settling in from day 1. He is so good natured and has made some friends in the neighborhood. He is very smart and treat driven which helps with training. He quickly found his toy box and loves to lean into us while relaxing on the couch. We have a large fenced back yard and he has been zooming, digging, rolling in the grass, and is fascinated with the neighbors cat and the dogs who live behind us. He loves his walks through the neighborhood and we have taken him to explore Charlestowne Landing and the new Old Towne Creek County Park which are both within 2 miles of our house. He’ll become a regular there.

Frank loves his new home.
Frank loves his new home.

He rarely barks, but gets so excited before breakfast and dinner that he gives us a “woo woo woooo” which is very cute. He does great in his kennel if we have to leave the house for any reason. From day 1, he sleeps through the night and only gets up if we do.

Susan had her eye on Frank from the first day that she saw FOTAS’s post about him and having been burned. Our last rescue, Clover, had a horrible life before we adopted her and we spoiled her. As we just lost Clover on June 5th, Susan knew that Clover would want us to do the same thing for another dog in a similar position. Fearing that his scar might prevent him from being adopted, Susan wanted Frank from day 1 and after meeting him, we knew that he’d be a great addition. I’m attaching some recent pix and we are happy to keep them coming! We also just swabbed his cheek and are excited to see what he’s made of! Ha!

Thanks again for reaching out and for all that you all do for the animals. We were so impressed with ACAS and its staff.”

Paul Fleming and Susan Fox, Frank’s Adopters and Best Friends

2026, Adoption, Community Pet Food Pantry, Volunteer, Volunteers

What FOTAS Means to Me — and to Aiken County

Posted on by Shana Ryberg
Letty Volunteering at Tractor Supply Adoption Event
13
Aug

I wanted to share a heartfelt story about the incredible work happening every day at the Aiken County Animal Shelter, alongside Friends of the Animal Shelter (FOTAS). Led by Kathy and a team of warrior souls, these organizations are changing lives—both animal and human—in ways words can barely capture.

For me, FOTAS is more than an organization. It is a lifeline of compassion, hope, and second chances. Every animal who enters the Shelter comes from a hard beginning, but with the help of FOTAS, they receive kindness, healing, and a soft place to land.

Letty Volunteering at Tractor Supply Adoption Event
Letty Volunteering at Tractor Supply Adoption Event

Every day shelter staff, and the FOTAS team work tirelessly to find the perfect home for each animal in their care. Their mission goes beyond sheltering—it’s about loving, restoring trust, and making sure every soul gets the chance it deserves. Whether arranging transports to out-of-state rescues or connecting with shelters to relieve overcrowding, especially during “baby season,” their dedication is nothing short of extraordinary.

If financial hardships ever make caring for a pet difficult, the Shelter’s animal food bank is open to anyone in need. This lifeline doesn’t just provide food—it keeps families together. They help people find programs that allow them to keep their beloved companions, ensuring no one has to say goodbye due to tough times.

The medical team at the Shelter performs miracles daily. No matter how dire an animal’s condition, they fight for every life. I know this firsthand—my hospice dog, Allie, arrived with a collar embedded in her neck and was discovered to have cancer during surgery. The team removed her tumors and provided exceptional aftercare. Today, Allie looks and feels as good as new, a living testament to their devotion and skill.

And then there are the volunteers—the heartbeat of the Shelter. These warrior souls walk dogs, bathe them, sit quietly to offer comfort, and often provide the very first kindness an animal has ever known. It is a blessing to witness how dogs and cats blossom with just a little affection. Animals who once knew fear and hardship transform into joyful companions, returning our love a hundred times over.  If you feel called to lend even a few hours a week, please email info@fotasaiken.org.  They can answer all your questions you have about opportunities available.  My time there has truly been life-changing.

FOTAS’s impact spreads far beyond the Shelter walls. Their school outreach programs teach children empathy and responsible pet care. Reading groups help shy animals connect with young readers. “Doggy Day Out” adventures give shelter dogs a chance to enjoy the world. Fosters take in injured or ill animals, giving them safety and comfort while they heal. Every program ripples through our community with compassion and purpose.

The adoption team works tirelessly to match people with pets who fit their lifestyle and bring joy into their homes. Their insight helps create forever families and opens space for new animals to be saved.

To witness the work of the staff and volunteers is to witness the best of humanity. They are warriors—fighting for every life, every family, every moment of hope. Their love is an extraordinary blessing to our community, and the animals they save give that blessing right back in ways words can scarcely describe.

Thank you for taking the time to read this, and perhaps for adding the Shelter to your prayers. Our community—and our animals—are better because of FOTAS.

by Letty Dempsey, FOTAS Volunteer

2026, Adoption

Adoption Fees vs. Fee-Waived Adoptions

Posted on by Shana Ryberg
Goose finds his new family!
07
Aug

First, I want to say that the FOTAS volunteers and the staff at the Aiken County Animal Shelter truly love the pets in our care. Every decision we make is centered around finding them safe, loving homes.

Recently, we’ve received quite a few negative comments about the fee-waived adoption events we participate in. These events are held nationwide through organizations that recognize a growing problem—animal shelters everywhere are full.

So why do we participate?

Because we want pet ownership to be more accessible.

Buddy and his new Mom
Buddy and his new Mom

Bringing home a new pet is exciting, but it also comes with expenses. New families need food, collars, leashes, toys, crates, beds, heartworm prevention, flea and tick medication, and veterinary care. Waiving an adoption fee allows people to put those dollars toward the things that will help their new companion thrive.

Meanwhile, shelters are not slowing down. As our community grows, so do the number of animals needing homes. Rising grocery prices, fuel costs, pet fees for renters, and increasing veterinary expenses have all contributed to more pets entering shelters across the country.

We believe adoption should be a joyful, affordable way for families to welcome a new pet into their lives.

Too many people still purchase pets without ever visiting their local shelter. Yet our dogs and cats are already spayed or neutered, vaccinated, microchipped, and ready to become someone’s best friend. If we can create a welcoming, judgment-free, affordable adoption experience, we can save more lives.

At Saturday’s Clear the Shelter event, we were reminded why these events matter.

We met families who had adopted from us before and couldn’t wait to do it again. We met first-time adopters who were excited to bring home their first pet. We met people who simply said, “We just want to save a life.”

Every one of them shared something in common.

They were kind.

They waited patiently while staff and volunteers introduced them to pets. They asked thoughtful questions. They celebrated with us as they left with a new family member. They understood that adoption isn’t about getting a deal—it’s about giving an animal a second chance.

Sometimes the conversations on social media can make it easy to focus on the criticism. But Saturday reminded us of something much more important.

Most people are good.

Most people want to help.

And every time one of our shelter pets walks out the door with a loving family, whether the adoption fee is $35 or completely waived, the outcome is exactly the same.

A life is saved.

And that’s what matters most.

I think this version keeps your compassionate voice while addressing the criticism in a positive, persuasive way. It ends on hope instead of defense, which is often more effective with readers.

by Kathy Cagle, FOTAS Programs Coordinator

2026, Volunteer, Volunteers

Thank You to the Helpers

Posted on by Shana Ryberg
Volunteers John and Judi Sauer, Belinda Ebert and John Byrnes gather for Flanigans’s ice cream!
07
Aug

Many of us grew up watching Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood. It was a gentle, comforting show that taught children about kindness, compassion, and the importance of helping others.

One of Fred Rogers’ most memorable quotes has stayed with generations of people:
“When I was a boy and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me, ‘Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.’ To this day, especially in times of disaster, I remember my mother’s words and I am always comforted by realizing that there are still so many helpers—so many caring people in this world.”

At the Aiken County Animal Shelter, we are fortunate to be surrounded by helpers every single day.

We are incredibly grateful to the volunteers, donors, foster families, rescue partners, and staff members who give so generously of their time, talents, and resources.

Many people don’t realize just how much our volunteers do. They socialize cats, clean kennels, and transport cats between the shelter and the Petsmart Adoption Center on Whiskey Road.

Others walk dogs, bathe them, or take them on Doggy Day Out adventures that provide a much-needed break from shelter life. Foster families open their homes to dogs, puppies, cats, and kittens that need extra care while they wait for permanent homes.

Some volunteers greet visitors, assist with clerical work, or even write thank-you notes to the generous people who support our mission.

We also see kindness from members of our community every day. Someone may stop by with a bag of dog food, cat litter, or blankets. Others donate a crate, collar, or pet supplies after losing a beloved companion, hoping those items will help another pet. 

Of course, none of this would be possible without our dedicated shelter staff. They clean kennels, feed and medicate animals, assist with playgroups, comfort frightened pets, and work tirelessly behind the scenes to give every animal the best possible chance at a new life.

We truly are blessed with an amazing team of helpers.

Best Friends Animal Society We Are A No-Kill Shelter Award
Best Friends Animal Society We Are A No-Kill Shelter Award

Last Saturday, Friends of the Animal Shelter hosted our annual Volunteer Ice Cream Social as a small token of appreciation for our volunteers, supporters, and shelter staff. Flanigan’s Ice Cream Truck helped make the afternoon extra special, giving us a chance to celebrate the people who keep the Aiken County Animal Shelter running with compassion, dedication, and love.

As if that wasn’t enough to celebrate, this week the Aiken County Animal Shelter received another No-Kill Award from Best Friends Animal Society for maintaining a save rate of over 90 percent.

In announcing the award, Best Friends CEO Julie Castle wrote:

“The award represents so much more than a number. It represents a culture of caring and compassion. It represents dedicated staff, committed volunteers, and motivated supporters. It represents innovative, thoughtful programming. And it represents extraordinary leadership, both within your organization and within our broader animal welfare movement.”

That award doesn’t belong to one person. It belongs to every volunteer who walks a dog, every foster who opens their home, every donor who drops off a bag of food, every adopter who says “yes,” and every staff member who shows up each day determined to save lives.

So, just as Mister Rogers encouraged us to do, look for the helpers.

At the Aiken County Animal Shelter, we are grateful to say we find them every day.

Their Lives Are In Our Hands

by Kathy Cagle, FOTAS Programs Coordinator

2026, DOGGIE DATES, Doggie Day Out

Doggy Day Out 

Posted on by Shana Ryberg
Henrietta enjoying the love during her Doggy Day Out
17
Jul

One of my favorite programs at the Aiken County Animal Shelter is our Doggy Day Out program.

I’ll admit I’m a little selfish about it—I simply love spending time with different shelter dogs. Sometimes we head to the park, sometimes we just go for a drive to grab a coffee and a pup cup. Every dog is different, with their own personality, quirks, and favorite adventures. As much as I adore my own dogs, it’s so much fun getting to know another one for a day.

Henrietta enjoying the love during her Doggy Day Out
Henrietta enjoying the love during her Doggy Day Out

The best part? It truly changes their lives.

The shelter is almost always full, and with that comes a lot of noise. Kennel doors clanging, food bowls banging, squeaky toys, barking dogs, meowing kittens…it can feel like a zoo. While some dogs adjust to the constant activity, others become overwhelmed by the stress.

An hour or two away from the shelter can make a tremendous difference. Dogs return more relaxed, happier, and often much more confident. Just as importantly, these outings help us learn things about them that we would never discover inside a kennel. Does the dog enjoy riding in the car? Love children? Ignore cats? Walk nicely on a leash? Those details help us find the perfect home.

The program couldn’t be easier. It’s almost like checking out a library book!

If you’re an Aiken County resident, simply call the shelter at (803) 642-1537, ext. 3, and schedule a Doggy Day Out. We’ll match you with a dog that fits the kind of outing you have in mind.

Want to hike through Hitchcock Woods? We have a dog for that.

Prefer a quiet afternoon on the couch with Netflix? We have a dog for that, too.

Need something fun to do with the kids? Take a shelter dog to the park and make their day.

This week, a wonderful family took adoptable Henrietta out for the day, and everyone had a fantastic time. Even better, we learned so much about her that will help us find her forever home.

Brie enjoying her Doggy Day Out
Brie enjoying her Doggy Day Out

Jennifer Tyler shared:

“We had such an incredible time today with Henrietta as part of the Doggy Day Out program. She is truly a sweet girl and would make a perfect addition to any family. During our time together, she was exceptionally patient and loving with my two young kids, and she got along with our cat without any issues whatsoever. She was also very comfortable around my husband and other men at the park, and I was particularly impressed by how beautifully she walks on a leash.

We would have loved to adopt her ourselves if our current situation allowed for it. If Henrietta is still available next week, we would be delighted to take her out again.”

Another volunteer, Alyssa, recently took adoptable Brie out for a pup cup and a walk around town. The smile on Brie’s face said it all. For a little while, she got to forget she was living in a shelter and simply enjoy being someone’s dog.

You don’t have to adopt to make a difference.

Sometimes, giving a shelter dog just a few hours of fresh air, new smells, belly rubs, and love is exactly what they need. And who knows? You just might fall in love along the way.

Their Lives Are In Our Hands.

By Kathy Cagle, FOTAS Programs Coordinator

2026, animal care education, fireworks and pets

Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness

Posted on by Shana Ryberg
Meet Frank – he is currently available for adoption at the Aiken County Animal Shelter. The scars on his back were likely cased by scraping under a fence trying to escape something scary.  These accidents are preventable by keeping pets indoors during fireworks.
11
Jul

This year we celebrate an exciting milestone: the 25th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. Our county will come together this July 4th to celebrate our nation’s freedom – so awesome!

Meet Frank – he is currently available for adoption at the Aiken County Animal Shelter. The scars on his back were likely cased by scraping under a fence trying to escape something scary.  These accidents are preventable by keeping pets indoors during fireworks.
Meet Frank – he is currently available for adoption at the Aiken County Animal Shelter. The scars on his back were likely cased by scraping under a fence trying to escape something scary.  These accidents are preventable by keeping pets indoors during fireworks.

Many will celebrate with friends and neighbors, grilling, enjoying the summer weather, and watching fireworks.

I, like many pet owners, will be soothing my dogs for hours during the firework displays.  For many pets and their owners, July 4th can be very stressful, and July 5th is a dreaded day for animal shelters.

Fireworks cause loud, unexpected noises that trigger intense anxiety in many animals. Pets may bolt through doors, dig under or climb fences in a desperate attempt to flee.  These behaviors are driven by fear.

What do we suggest?

  • Keep your pets indoors during peak celebration hours.
  • Create a safe, comfortable space for them.
  • Use a television or radio to provide background noise and distraction.
  • Stay close to offer comfort.
  • Consider contacting your veterinarian in advance about calming medications.

The Aiken County Animal Shelter will see a significant increase in strays on July 5th, so please make sure that your pets are microchipped and that contact information is up to date.

If you live in a neighborhood please be considerate of your four-legged neighbors.  Instead of setting off fireworks from 8pm until 2am, limit displays to an earlier window like 8pm to 10pm. That way pet owners can better manage their pet’s anxiety.

This is a wonderful holiday for all of us – and being kind to pets helps ensure that they too can enjoy life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.

Their lives are in our hands.

by Kathy Cagle, FOTAS Programs Coordinator

2026, Adoption, Pick Me!

Adoptions!

Posted on by Shana Ryberg
Adopted kitten and her new best friends.
26
Jun

Summer is traditionally one of the most challenging times of the year for animal shelters. While adoption events like Pick Me SC shine a spotlight on homeless pets, they also remind us that the need doesn’t end when the event does.

Sweet dog adoption and her new best friend.
Sweet dog adoption and her new best friend.

We recently wrapped up the Petco Love Pick Me SC 2026 Adoption Event, and what an incredible success it was! Shelters across South Carolina joined forces to help find homes for the many dogs and cats waiting for families, and our community showed up in a big way.

One question we often hear is why waived adoption fees make such a difference when our regular fees are already so low—just $10 for cats and $35 for dogs. The truth is, our goal has never been to make money on adoptions. Every pet adopted from the Aiken County Animal Shelter is spayed or neutered, vaccinated, microchipped, and has received flea and tick prevention. We simply want to remove as many barriers as possible to help loving families connect with deserving pets.

Even as we celebrate the happy endings from Pick Me SC, new animals continue to arrive at the shelter every day. Many come to us because families are facing economic hardships, housing challenges, the loss of a loved one, or because they were found wandering alone.

We are incredibly grateful to everyone who adopted during this special event. You changed lives. But let’s not allow that momentum to stop here. The dogs and cats at the Aiken County Animal Shelter need families every day of the year.

And summer may just be the perfect time to adopt. The longer days make evening walks more enjoyable, children are home from school and can help welcome a new pet, and families often have more time to devote to training and bonding.

If you’ve been thinking about adding a furry family member, there’s no need to wait for the next big event. Your new best friend may be waiting at the shelter right now.

Their lives are in our hands.

By Kathy Cagle, FOTAS Programs Coordinator