Category Archives: Adoption

2025, Adoption, animal abuse

Traveling Hours for The Underdog

Posted on by Shana Ryberg
Sweet Amber
02
Oct

Amber came to the shelter in July as part of a neglect case.
The sweet girl won us over quickly! You could hear her tail hitting the floor, wagging, before you could even see her. She was so happy to have food, water, a bed and people to love her!

Being a brindle pitty mix, Amber was not an easy dog to place, sad as that is.

Amber just had this sweetness to her. She would fall in love with people immediately and it was the most amazing bond! She would lay on us, fall asleep on us, she played in the yard with other dogs, she never had an accident in her kennel, she was magnificent!

Amber used her paws like we use hands! She would wave them, curl them around us, absolutely precious! We posted a video of her sitting in one of our offices looking so happy and so cute!

People started to come see her but no one left with her. Baffling to us, we loved her!

Luckily a woman saw Amber’s video and kept following her on our FOTAS Aiken Facebook page. Lynne was traveling and truly believed that if it was meant to be, it would be.

Amber meets a horse friend
Amber meets a horse friend

Then one day, after two months with us, Amber’s hero came to the shelter!

Lynne returned home to her farm in Tryon, NC after her travels. The following morning, she drove three hours to the Aiken County Animal Shelter for Amber. We didn’t know she was coming, it was the best surprise!

After we all hugged and said goodbye, Amber was off to her new home!

“Amber is home safe and sound. Has already asked for a million belly rubs, licked my husband all over his face, found a new toy, and chilling with us in the living room.”

This may seem like just a happy story to some, but to the staff and volunteers who see loving dogs like Amber each and every day it was extraordinary. We were praying that someone would ignore the fact that Amber was overbred, a little rough around the edges, and give her a home. We didn’t expect someone to drive hours to save her, that is pretty awesome!

Thank you to Lynne and her husband for giving Amber the best life! From neglect to happiness!

Their lives are in our hands.

by Kathy Cagle, FOTAS Programs Coordinator

2025, Adoption, Pibbles

The Pure Pleasure of Pitties

Posted on by Shana Ryberg
20
Aug

For those who may be missing the companionship of a dog or for others who just want to offer their time and affection, the Aiken County Animal Shelter’s Doggie Days Out program is a fun opportunity to have a dog for an hour, an afternoon or overnight. How lucky are we to have the privilege of a shelter dog for a cuddle, a walk or a movie night at home? The dogs love to show that they have what it takes to be adopted as a forever friend.

There have been a few times since becoming a volunteer at the shelter, that I have taken a dog out for the day or home for the weekend. Before deciding which dog to take home, I feel as though I must trust them in a number of ways. They must be able to get in and out of the car politely. They must be able to walk on the leash politely. And, they must behave in my home (you guessed it), politely.

So it was to my surprise that all of the dogs I have selected for a Doggie Days Out have been Pitties [Pitbull Mix]. Previously, I had no experience whatsoever with Pitties, but they have quickly become my favorites.

We’re all aware of the “bad wrap” Pitties have received through no fault of their own. Whether it is by over-breeding, poor upbringing or lack of training their reputation is by no means a representation of the breed. On the contrary, I have found them to be incredibly affectionate, attentive, empathetic, silly and loving.

Whether it’s hanging out at home or on a long walk in the horse district, each one has proven to be the most wonderful companion. The Pitties are sturdy and strong, but love to have their faces scrunched and smooched. Their smiles will light up your day!!

Pitties are by nature eager for connection. If we could only bottle the pure gratitude they express for any of the experiences we can provide. Pauline was snoring away within minutes of settling into her comfy and quiet “at home” bed, Marley played enthusiastically with his toys, Lexi buried herself into the pillows, Ricky loved exploring on our long walks and Marty smiled ear-to-ear all day.

Pauline, Marley, Lexi, Ricky and Marty have thankfully been adopted. I am left with fond memories of cuddling with them and delighting in their appreciation of a warm comfortable bed to share. Some extra yummy treats didn’t hurt either.

Give a Pittie a chance. You won’t regret it!! Their lives are in our hands.

by Barbara Ambach FOTAS Volunteer

2025, Adoption, senior pets

Two Lovely Dogs Homeless After Their Owners Passed Away

Posted on by Shana Ryberg
Boo was brought to the shelter on June 6th after his owner passed away.
18
Jul

Boo and Monroe are two dogs that came to the Aiken County Animal Shelter recently when their owners passed away. They came from separate homes and reminded us that it really is important to have a plan for our pets in case something happens to us.

The shelter is full with so many young puppies and gorgeous dogs right now. Boo and Monroe are older, larger dogs, and those are much harder to find homes for. I wish I knew why? Personally, an older, bigger dog to cuddle with is way more appealing than young, barky puppy!

Boo was brought to the shelter on June 6th after his owner passed away.

He is seven years old, not exactly a senior by any means, but he is past his puppy stage for sure. He had a dog buddy that was quickly adopted and now he is by himself. This has been very difficult for Boo. He is a big hippo and loves to cuddle! He is house trained and knows commands. He is not a fan of the food at the shelter, but he was a little chubby when he arrived! He would love a home where he could get a few table scraps and a soft bed to lay on. Boo is playful for short bursts but then wants to chill on the couch with the volunteers. He hates being alone in his kennel. It’s so noisy right now, we have no kennels open and the non-stop barking is tough on a dog that had a good home for seven years. Boo has big eyes and when you walk by him he makes eye contact, desperately asking for love. It is so hard seeing him there.

Monroe came to us just one day before Boo did, on June 5th.

Photo by Christine Harmel, “Monroe’s Breakfast Face”
Photo by Christine Harmel, “Monroe’s Breakfast Face”

Monroe was found by a neighbor after his owner passed away. This sweet dog is easy to walk and easy to love. He is so gentle and loves to give soft kisses. Never an accident in his kennel, it must be so hard for him to be in a kennel waiting for volunteers to let him out. Monroe may be eleven years old but he still has much to give. He loves to go walking on the trails, he gets excited when we give him treats!

Recently one of our volunteers Christine took Monroe home for an overnight, she has a soft spot for the seniors, “He came for a sleepover last night and he is so wonderful! Cute, quiet, calm, doesn’t mind thunder, loves peanut butter, 80s music and walking.”

If you have considered adopting a pet, please consider Boo or Monroe. These dogs had owners, they were loved, and now they are alone.

Their lives are in our hands.
By Kathy Cagle, FOTAS Programs Coordinator

2025, adopter feedback, Adoption

Shy Maya finds a way to fit in well with her new family

Posted on by Shana Ryberg
Maya at home with her new canine siblings.
27
Jun

When Maya arrived at the Aiken County Animal Shelter, the odds were already against her. This four-year-old stray with a charcoal brindle coat was terribly skinny, had old scars on her chest, didn’t like to be touched and was almost too terrified to move.

But her eyes revealed a sweetness inside her that the staff and volunteers could see when they worked with her in playgroup or took her for walks. There was a gentleness about her that made everyone want to see her succeed.

The first time Maya was tested with other dogs, she tucked her tail and her legs shook. But even as she cowered close to the entry gate, she allowed her canine peers to sniff her all over and lick her face. Following her first venture into playgroup, she began to gain confidence and soon played with the other dogs. After a week passed, she still avoided being pet by her handlers. But she loved playgroup and even started to smile while running and wrestling with her favorite dogs.

When Maya arrived at the County Shelter, she was terrified and shut down. Pictured here with her adopter, Sara, the extremely timid dog is gaining confidence in her new home and learning to accept human affection.
When Maya arrived at the County Shelter, she was terrified and shut down. Pictured here with her adopter, Sara, the extremely timid dog is gaining confidence in her new home and learning to accept human affection.

Weeks passed and Maya was becoming one of the shelter’s best dogs in playgroup. Dogs responded well to her, and she even started to help newbies learn how to play,

While the staff was working with Maya, she was promoted on FOTAS’s social media sites. But no one was coming to see her. The staff knew she was a good dog but wondered if her timidness would keep her from being adopted. Maya needed to find a home with other dogs and an owner who didn’t mind that she wasn’t a lovey-dovey, wiggly lap dog. Quite a tall order.

But on May 3, Sara Myers came to the shelter seeking a companion for her male pitty mix, Buddy. Her senior Doberman, Nola, doesn’t play with Buddy as much as she once did due to her age, so Sara needed a new furry family member. She was immediately drawn to Maya.

“She’s adorable with such a cute face and her puppy dog eyes,” Sara said. “When I sat next to Maya at the shelter, she broke my heart and she needed a home. So, I adopted her for my dog.”

It took some time for Maya to adjust to her new home, but she is getting more comfortable every day. The first week, she hid under Sara’s deck. But now she plays with Buddy and enjoys Nola’s company. She is still timid but starting to warm up to getting pets from Sara and her 11-year-old son, Gunner.

“Sometimes in the evening, Maya will come over and sit close to me, and let me pet her,” Sara said. “And if I stop, she’ll slide up a little closer. So, she does like to be petted. She’s learning it’s a good thing.”

The shelter currently has two dogs, Pippa and Angie, who, like Maya, are timid with people but wonderful with dogs. Come to 333 Wire Road in Aiken to visit them and add them to your family.

Gentle reminder: Today is the last day of our Pick Me! SC adoption promotion, which features free dog adoptions. Cats and kittens are just $10.

Their lives are in our hands.

By Bob Gordon, FOTAS Communications Director

2025, Adoption

Please adopt, don’t shop

Posted on by Shana Ryberg
Poor Igby was abandoned, but now he’s healthy, happy and ready to be adopted.
07
Jun

Did you now that most of the dogs that the Aiken County Animal Shelter receives know basic commands?

They get picked up as stray dogs but when asked to sit, they get so excited! It’s like we are now speaking the same language. Most will sit and give us their paw! The majority of our adoptable dogs are house-trained as well.

Nine-month-old puppy Penelope was picked up as a stray. This cutie is available for adoption at the County Animal Shelter.
Nine-month-old puppy Penelope was picked up as a stray. This cutie is available for adoption at the County Animal Shelter.

We will never understand how someone can spend time teaching a dog commands and house-training them only to let them go and never look for them.

Recently, I was visiting a school and two children raised their hands to tell me that their parents were breeding bully breed dogs. They were so proud, but I felt so defeated.

We have taken in litter after litter this year and many have been left in boxes on the side of the road.

The Aiken County Animal Shelter has taken in litter after litter of puppies this year, and many have been left in boxes on the side of the road.
The Aiken County Animal Shelter has taken in litter after litter of puppies this year, and many have been left in boxes on the side of the road.

Just last month, eight little puppies, three to four weeks old, were left on the road in a box. When they arrived, we struggled to find foster homes to care for the babies. Luckily, we did but then more and more kept coming in. Some healthy, some with mange, some barely hanging on.

Sweet Igby was left in a crate outside the shelter while we were closed. I can only imagine how scared he was. He is the most gentle, squishy and sweet pup!

 

What has happened to empathy? We see dogs cry when we leave at the end of the day because they are so lonely. When we arrive in the morning, it is heartbreaking listening to all of the dogs barking to go outside to potty. They have been trained not to potty inside and are desperate to get out. Who do you pick first?

Today when I arrived to take a dog to the WRDW-TV News station for the Take Me Home segment, I was in tears. Ricky was pacing, Marty was circling, Reid was licking the kennel bars, Niles was crying for attention, and poor Ruby wanted a hug so badly that she was jumping in the air trying to get my attention. These dogs and so many others desperately want love and to have their basic needs met.

How can we help them?

Please stop buying puppies from breeders. Come to the shelter. We have so many adoptable puppies, we have foster to adopt programs for the little ones. Our adult dogs are home ready and will do anything to please their new family.

We worry all the time about slowing adoptions. How will we save all of these pets? Please share our social media posts, please tell your neighbors, please volunteer to foster a dog, a puppy, kittens. Please take a shelter dog on a Doggy Day Out to the park. Please help.

Their lives are in our hands.

By Kathy Cagle, FOTAS Programs Coordinator

2025, Adoption, barn cats

Got mice? Let us find a barn cat for you!

Posted on by Shana Ryberg
Handsome Midnight lounges in the hay room. The County Animal Shelter’s barn cats are fixed, vaccinated and free to good homes.
16
May

Most cats are sweet and cuddly. They belong inside – playing with their cat toys, sleeping on your bed or purring on your lap.

But there are exceptions.

Some felines are more “spicy” or wild, and less socialized. These felines haven’t had much contact with humans and, as a result, don’t like to be held or pampered. They are extremely independent and have a bit of an attitude. However, it’s this assertiveness that makes barn cats such good hunters and ideal for getting rid of mice and other pests.

Matching adopters with barn cats
The Aiken County Animal Shelter has access to barn cats throughout the area. Our goal is to help these stray/outdoor, adult cats who are alone to find homes on farms, in barns, warehouses or other safe locations. We look for situations where they will be well cared for and appreciated. These hard working, pest reducing cats can help control the rodent population while enjoying the freedom of outdoor sheltered life with as little or as much human contact as they want.

Thanks to the TNR (Trap, Neuter & Return) program we’ve offered since 2014, many of our community cats are already fixed and in colonies. However, there are some that are single and looking for an outdoor home.

Barn cats are not lovey-dovey, but they’re good hunters. This makes them ideal for adopters looking to rid their property of rodents and other pests.
Barn cats are not lovey-dovey, but they’re good hunters. This makes them ideal for adopters looking to rid their property of rodents and other pests.

Prior to adoption, all potential barn cats at the County Shelter are:

  • Spayed/neutered (altered)
  • Vaccinated for rabies
  • Ear tipped (the universal sign for an altered feral cat)

Spicy mousers need love, too
While barn cats are feistier than their more domesticated counterparts, it is still important that they are properly cared for and loved. Before you decide to bring a barn cat home, make certain you are able to care for them by providing the following:

  • Fresh food and water, daily
  • Shelter from outdoor elements
  • A safe place to hide from predators.

Barn cats also need to be confined for three weeks before letting them roam the property. They must first learn that the farm is their home and source of food and care, or they are likely to run away.

Barn cats at the County Shelter are free to good homes. If you would like to adopt a barn cat or two (or more) from the Aiken County Animal Shelter, please send an email to info@fotasaiken.org or call (803) 642-1537, option 3.

Their lives are in our hands.

By Bob Gordon, FOTAS Communications Director

2025, Adoption, Volunteer

Adopting Kali was Kismet

Posted on by Shana Ryberg
Malia and Kali: it was meant to be
12
May

Some adoptions are just meant to happen.

The most recent example of destiny stepping in to match a dog with an adopter involves a terrified tan and white mama dog and a long-time FOTAS volunteer.

Kali arrived at the Aiken County Animal Shelter as a stray who was found feeding her puppies under a shed. The pretty mixed breed was so skittish, she had to be caught in a trap along with one of her pups. Gaunt and weak when she arrived at the shelter, Kali showed signs of being sweet but was too scared to bond with any of the staff.

When Kali graduated to the adoption floor, she was immediately noticed by volunteer Malia Koelker.
“She was trembling in the corner of her kennel” Malia said. “So, I sat with her for an hour or so and did the same thing the next day. She started feeling more confident when I walked her and was so grateful for the attention.”

From then on, Kali became attached to Malia. Whenever the shy 5-year-old, 42-pound dog saw Malia, she would perk up and beg to be petted. Other volunteers and staff members began to teasingly ask Malia what she did that made Kali fall in love with her. Even when Kali was in playgroup, she would get distracted if she spotted Malia walking other dogs or chatting with volunteers.

But Malia kept resisting the urge to adopt Kali. She’d been a FOTAS volunteer for seven years and never adopted a dog. She and her husband, Robert, like to travel and the timing never felt right. Besides, they were still mourning their 18-year-old dog, who passed away a year ago. Why do it now?

Kali feeling safe and secure in her new home.
Kali feeling safe and secure in her new home.

“I’ve been tempted so many times to adopt a dog, but Kali broke my heart,” Malia said. “Whenever she saw me, she’d whine and bark. When I walked her, she’d jump up on the couch and curl right up next to me.”

As days kept going by without Kali finding a home, Malia decided to take Kali home for one night to see how she would do away from the shelter, in a quiet home. Robert was skeptical, but agreed to Kali’s visit.

“She was perfect,” Malia said. “She slept in our bed and won over our cat, Darwin. She took over one of our chairs and fit right in.”

Malia adopted Kali the next day and the timid dog who trembled and shook in her kennel is now happy and living her best life.

“She’s warming up to Robert now,” Malia said. “When we walk Kali together in the morning, she stops and waits for him if he’s lagging behind.”

Malia smiles. “I think she’s won Robert’s heart, too.”

Their lives are in our hands.

By Bob Gordon, FOTAS Communications Director

2025, Adoption, Training

Crate training can make life easier for both you and your dog

Posted on by Shana Ryberg
Crating can be a tool for helping with separation anxiety.
05
May

While a crate might seem too confining for your dog, it can actually be a great source of comfort for him, especially if he is insecure.

A dog crate is a plastic or collapsible metal enclosed pen that is large enough for a dog to stand up and turn around in. It is a place for the dog to be when no one is around to supervise him. If introduced correctly it can become your dog’s sanctuary – a place where he feels safe and secure. It can be a tool for helping with separation anxiety.

Dogs are extremely social and enjoy being included in family activities. Using a crate allows your dog to be inside even when you’re not home or are sleeping. Crating along with scheduled opportunities to go outside can aid in house-training because dogs don’t like to soil their sleeping areas. During the puppy stage, this confinement keeps him safe when you cannot monitor him. Crating keeps your pup away from dangers like electrical cords and choking hazards.

Some dogs at the animal shelter get panicky in their kennels with all the noise and activity around them. But they become calmer and much happier when we put them in a crate in the front lobby. These dogs, likely trained before coming to the shelter, feel safer in a crate containing a comfy dog bed and their durable toys.

Nitro, a dog that felt more secure in a crate then his shelter kennel, was adopted and now roams free in his new house, but still sees the crate as his “den” and safe place.
Nitro, a dog that felt more secure in a crate then his shelter kennel, was adopted and now roams free in his new house, but still sees the crate as his “den” and safe place.

One dog on the adoption floor, Nitro, was so anxious in his kennel, he would run all around, pace the floor, put his paws on the kennel door and bark in fear. But when we put him a crate in the lobby, he calmed down and became a different dog. He felt more secure in the crate, which helped him to relax and get some much-needed rest.

However, crates can be misused. No dog should spend most of his day, every day, in a crate. Crating an adult dog for more than 10 hours in a day can be considered inhumane even if he is given bathroom breaks. If your schedule requires you to be away from your dog for long days consider alternatives such as doggy daycare, a walking service or a pet sitter. 

Training experts also stress that a crate should never be used as punishment tool in training your dog.

“You want your dog to associate his crate with positive behavior,” said Karen DeCamp, Aiken County Animal Shelter Dog Trainer. “It is okay to use a crate to separate your dog from a household activity for short time-outs or naps. A safe chew toy or perhaps a Kong stuffed with peanut butter, then frozen, will provide your dog mental activity while crated.”

Finally, if you do crate your dog when you’re not home, it is important that you offset his time in the crate with needed exercise. He needs to expend his pent-up energy, so be sure to take him for a long walk or play fetch with him when you get home.

Their lives are in our hands.
By Bob Gordon, FOTAS Communications Director

2025, Adoption

Whitney’s forever home is worth the long wait

Posted on by Shana Ryberg
Whitney spends a lot of time with her new brother, Kade.
22
Mar

Whitney was the Aiken County Animal Shelter’s longest resident and running out of time. The pretty, four-year-old, 50-pound Retriever mix with a gorgeous brindle coat was abandoned in an empty house by her previous owners and was now on her fifth month of hoping to be selected by prospective adopters.

Whitney was a favorite of FOTAS volunteers because she was affectionate and walked wonderfully on a leash. The gentle dog was wonderful with children, and people of all ages. She was housebroken, had beautiful manners and was incredibly affectionate. But she had one big strike against her. She needed to be an only pet.

Whitney explores the goodies at Wags! in Hendersonville, NC.
Whitney explores the goodies at Wags! in Hendersonville, NC.

Being the longest resident at the shelter is never a good position to be in and Whitney needed a small miracle. She found one with the Bowdoin family.

Kyle and Nikki Bowdoin saw Whitney on Facebook and traveled with their young son, Kade, from Greenville, SC to visit her at the shelter. They spent a lot of time with her before making the decision to take her home. They didn’t have any pets or a lot of dogs around their property, so they were ideal candidates.

Whitney quickly bonded with the family, especially Kade. She trusted him immediately.

“Whitney is a sweetie pie and loves to cuddle,” Nikki said. “She loves to play with her stuffed animals and acts like a puppy with them! She loves us very much, and she is the happiest when we are all together. Kade is her favorite, of course!”

Whitney went home with the Bowdoins three months ago and has been a wonderful pet. Nikki says she loves car rides, playing tug, and long walks on the lake. She absolutely loved playing in the snow. Whitney recently went on her first family trip and had a fantastic time.

2025, Adoption, kennel stress

Rule of threes helps adopters prepare for new pet

Posted on by Shana Ryberg
Some dogs, like 2-year-old Dutchess, are scared in a shelter environment, but will become more social once they find a loving home. But new owners must be patient and give their new pets time to adjust to their new surroundings.
21
Feb

The “rule of threes” for adopted animals, often called the “3-3-3 rule,” advocates that it takes a new pet three days to decompress and feel relaxed in their new environment; three weeks to start learning your daily routine, and three months to feel completely settled in and part of your family.
Many adopters aren’t sure what to expect when they add a new pet, and it certainly varies based on the animal’s personality background and age. However, the rule of threes effectively provides a guideline for the adjustment period after adoption.

Three days to decompress
Adopters need to take it slow when they bring their adopted pet home for the first time. While some pets immediately feel relaxed and at home, most of the time pets need time to adjust and get their bearings. Once dogs are away from the shelter, they often crash and fall asleep when they first arrive at their new home. They finally are in a quiet setting and feel like they can relax. They may not eat much and hide under the furniture or in their crate. Be patient. It takes some dogs a little time to feel secure in a new home.

During these first few days, your adopted pet is a flight risk, so you have to make sure they don’t escape through an open door or bolt out of your yard because you left them unattended. However, it is also important to give them space, be supportive and stay positive. You don’t want to force them to interact with you and your family members. Instead, calmly show them where they will be eating and sleeping; feed them twice a day and take them out every couple of hours until you know their signal for wanting to go out and potty.

Adopting a shelter dog like 3-year-old Sparrow is a rewarding experience that can be enhanced by following the 3-3-3 rule.
Adopting a shelter dog like 3-year-old Sparrow is a rewarding experience that can be enhanced by following the 3-3-3 rule.

Three weeks to learn the routine
At this point, your adopted pet is settling in and getting used to your routine. They’ve caught up on their sleep and are feeling more confident. Their personality is starting to bloom. With added confidence, some dogs may begin to test boundaries, so you’ll want to give your pet clear directions and reward good behavior. Remember, consistency and patience are crucial during this period. It’s a learning process for both of you, and it takes time to get to know each other.

Three months to feel at home
Now your dog is fully settled into their new home and feels like part of the family. They understand and follow your routines. They’ve developed a deep bond with you and are comfortable being themselves. No longer do they wonder if this is just a temporary place to stay. They know they are truly home.

If you are looking to adopt a pet, call the Aiken County Animal Shelter, (803) 642-1537, ext. 3765, or email info@fotasaiken.org and make an appointment with an adoption expert. They will give you personalized customer service and have pets ready to show when you arrive. Walk-ins are also welcome. We’re open Monday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and located at 333 Wire Rd., Aiken, SC.

Their lives are in our hands.
By Bob Gordon, FOTAS Communications Director