Category Archives: County tethering ordinance

County Animal Shelter is a resource, not just a destination

Most people only think of the Aiken County Animal Shelter as a place to bring lost or unwanted pets for rehoming. But it is much more than that. Through its partnership with FOTAS, the shelter provides community outreach programs that help people and their pets, and works to prevent dogs and cats from ever having […]

Community Outreach More Vital than Ever During Difficult Times

While catching up on paperwork early Thursday morning, Patrick Miller, Supervisor of Animal Control in Aiken County’s Code Enforcement Division, is asked what he likes most about his job. “Helping people is the most rewarding part of what I do,” he says. “It’s just human nature to feel good from giving back to the community […]

The Christmas Spirit of Gratitude and Charity

The Christmas season is upon us. It’s a time of festivity, bright lights, family, goodwill, and faith. It’s also a time to count our blessings. As we at FOTAS look back over the past nine years, it’s also a time to reflect upon our profound gratitude for our friends and supporters in the Aiken community. […]

Life after Chains

Skye, Queenie, King and Polo: what do these dogs have in common? They are all pit-crosses. They were skinny and dirty, their coats scruffy. None had been spayed or neutered. The females were bred indiscriminately; how many times is anyone’s guess. Three of them tested positive for heartworms. All four dogs were chained to stationary […]

County and FOTAS Work Together to Keep Dogs Off Chains

The County, FOTAS and other concerned citizens worked together for months to pass a tethering ordinance. Many animal cruelty and neglect cases include dogs permanently attached to heavy chains that limit their mobility and access to food, water and shade or escape from their own waste. But little could be done to prevent people from […]