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!

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.

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

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.

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

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.

Because we want pet ownership to be more accessible.

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

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.

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

We have been drowning for a long time at the Aiken County Animal Shelter.

Summer is always our busiest season, so we expect to see more homeless pets. What we didn’t expect this year was a significant drop in adoptions.

Why? Rising food costs, increasing veterinary expenses, and economic uncertainty have made many families hesitant to add a pet to their home.

The Aiken County Animal Shelter is one of hundreds of shelters nationwide participating in the BISSELL Pet Foundation’s Empty the Shelters event. Through July 25, adoption fees are waived for dogs and reduced for cats in hopes of encouraging more families to adopt during this critical time.

Earlier this week, we reached a breaking point. Every kennel was full, and we had nowhere to place the dogs and kittens continuing to arrive. We asked WJBF NewsChannel 6 for help. They visited the shelter, saw the overcrowding firsthand, and shared our story with the community.

What happened next was extraordinary.

On Friday alone, eight dogs and eight cats found homes. Our lobby stayed busy all day with people patiently waiting to meet pets. No one complained about the wait. They understood the urgency and simply wanted to help save a life.

Are we out of the woods? Not yet.

But for the first time in a while, we’re feeling hopeful.

To everyone who adopted, shared our story, or encouraged someone else to visit the shelter—thank you. You reminded us what this community can do when it comes together for homeless animals.

Their lives truly are in our hands.

by Kathy Cagle, FOTAS Programs Coordinator

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.

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.

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

We’re busy, so planning to show up takes an extra dose of energy. It’s not always convenient. It’s not
always seen. It’s not always good weather, BUT … that’s the point – do it anyway. Knowing that our efforts
are “good” no matter the return is the ultimate way to give selflessly and without expectation.

The Aiken County Animal Shelter is the perfect place for giving. There are so many sweet animals
longing for us to be there with them. To provide affection. To create connection. To see their beauty.

Beauty is often in their unrealized potential. Nourishing this beauty is a very satisfying endeavor. Their imperfections make it interesting, challenging and fulfilling. Some of the longer-term residents may be overlooked due to their size, breed, kennel behavior, etc. However, these considerations are most often the least concerning when in reality they are very affectionate, playful, devoted and well-behaved.

Trapper, Jagger, Bowser and Zuko are all medium to large mixed-breed dogs. They are gentle, fun-loving, great on walks or lounging on the couch for cuddles, belly rubs and smooches. They have been at the shelter for too long by no fault of their own. Please come to the shelter to meet these gentle friends. They are so deserving of your time and a forever home.

Volunteering at the ACAS is a place where you can express your gratitude, passion and generosity. It’s a feel-good place. An unfortunately necessary place. Come find your place.

Their lives are in our hands.

by Barbara Ambach, FOTAS Volunteer

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 4^th can be very stressful, and July 5^th 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 5^th, 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

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

At the Aiken County Animal Shelter, summer is also one of our busiest seasons. In the past two weeks alone, more than 200 dogs and cats have entered our shelter.

Dogs don’t care if you’ve had a bad day at work. They don’t care if you’re having a bad hair day, gained a few pounds, or forgot to take out the trash. They are simply thrilled that you walked through the door.

While we work hard to find homes for homeless pets, summer is also a good reminder of the joy that pets bring to our lives.

Cats may act a little more independent, but many of them are quietly waiting to greet you and cuddle on the couch.

Life changes. Families grow. Jobs become demanding. Finances get tight. Through all of those changes, our pets remain remarkably loyal.

At the shelter, we often meet pets who have spent years loving one family. They know the routines, the voices, and the smells of home. Watching them adjust to shelter life reminds us how deeply pets bond with the people they love.

That’s why we encourage families facing challenges to explore every possible option before giving up a pet. Sometimes a temporary hardship can be solved with a little creativity, patience, or help from family or friends.

Your pet is family, they deserve your commitment.

The wagging tail at the end of a long day. The dog that never misses a chance to make you laugh. The cat that somehow knows exactly when you need comfort. These moments may seem small, but they often become some of our favorite memories.

Pets don’t ask for much. A meal, a safe place to sleep, and the chance to spend time with the people they love.

In return, they give us unconditional love, loyalty, and companionship that can last for years.

As summer continues and life gets busy, take an extra moment to appreciate the furry family members sharing your home. They may not stay with us forever, but they make our lives better every single day they are here.

If you don’t have a furry friend, we will help find you the best! 

Their Lives Are In Our Hands.

by Kathy Cagle, FOTAS Programs Coordinator