Major Progress for Animal Welfare in Aiken as New Facility Opens

Major Progress for Animal Welfare in Aiken: A New Chapter Unfolds

Good morning, Aiken! As we greet the day with sunny skies and a cool temperature of 52°F, there’s a lot more to feel good about in our community. With a low of 28°F expected tonight, you might want to bundle up if you’re heading out. But outside the weather, something truly heartwarming is happening right here in Aiken, and it’s all about our furry friends.

Transforming Lives, One Paw at a Time

It’s hard to believe that just 15 years ago, the Aiken County Animal Shelter faced a daunting statistic. The shelter had an alarming euthanasia rate of over 90%. However, thanks to the relentless efforts of Friends of the Animal Shelter (FOTAS), that story has completely reversed. Today, our local shelter proudly boasts a stunning save rate of over 90%! Yes, you heard that right—every adoptable pet in our community is being saved!

A Milestone Achievement

The opening of the new FOTAS facility at 333 Wire Road isn’t just a building; it’s a beacon of hope for countless animals in need. FOTAS, a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization formed in 2009, aims to support animal welfare, promote responsible pet ownership, and eliminate euthanasia of adoptable animals. Their work has been vital in transforming the lives of over 4,000 homeless and abandoned animals each year.

Community Matters

This remarkable turnaround would not have been possible without the growing support of the Aiken community. Local residents have stepped up in a huge way, volunteering their time, adopting pets, and donating funds to help FOTAS succeed in its mission. The passion of the community has truly made a difference, proving that together, we can make a lasting change in the lives of our four-legged companions.

Innovative Programs & Ongoing Initiatives

FOTAS continues to expand its initiatives to improve the lives of animals in the shelter. Some of their incredible accomplishments include:

• Indoor-outdoor cat facility: A space where potential adopters can interact with felines before taking them home.
• Rescue transports: Sending animals to northeast rescues to find homes when local options are limited.
• Heartworm treatment: Funding treatment for heartworm-positive dogs, ensuring they are saved rather than euthanized.
• Feral cat TNR program: This effort has dramatically reduced the number of feral cats in our area.
• Wellness and Medical Isolation building: Opened in 2018 to separate sick animals from healthy ones.
• Playgroups for shelter dogs: Launched in 2019, these groups help dogs learn social skills and reduce stress.
• The PAWS building: Opened in 2023, it added new adoption rooms and play areas.

A Well-Deserved Recognition

FOTAS has been recognized with the Secretary of State of South Carolina Angel Award, one of only ten organizations out of 14,000 statewide. This acknowledgment speaks volumes about their efficiency and impact in helping homeless animals in Aiken.

Join the Cause: Giving Back

On Dec. 3, which is also #GivingTuesday, FOTAS has an exciting opportunity for those looking to give back. All donations made on that day will be matched up to $10,000 thanks to a generous donor! If you’ve been moved by the incredible work being done, consider visiting fotasaiken.org/donate to make a difference.

So Aiken, as the sun shines bright today, let’s reflect on all the wonderful progress we’ve made for our animal friends. With a little more support, we can continue to make Aiken an even more wonderful place for both pets and people.