About half a million dogs are euthanized in various shelters yearly due to the lack of space or forever homes. You can make a change and save the lives of these innocent dogs by adopting one from your local dog rescue.
Though it’s enticing to go to a breeder, PETA recommends checking out every rescue or shelter as one of the dogs they have can fit your preferences and lifestyle.
After all, thousands of dogs are wandering in the streets, homeless, and at risk of getting hit by cars. As their numbers grow, pet overpopulation ensues. One of the solutions to this is to promote “no-birth.”
With that, if your home is ready to welcome a dog, here are the best dog rescues you can find in Columbia, South Carolina.
9 Best Dog Rescues in Columbia, SC
1. Final Victory Animal Rescue
Final Victory Animal Rescue started in 2017. It’s deemed an emergency to know about the number of dogs that experience mercy-killing for “humane reasons,” such as the unavailability of space in the shelter or bad health conditions.
This rescue doesn’t just give dogs a roof to cover their heads during bad weather. Socialization is one of their prime duties to create a positive experience so that these pooches gradually forget their bad encounters.
This way, the dogs become less withdrawn, friendlier, and far from developing destructive behaviors, making them companionable for the next furever family that shows interest in adopting them.
Visitations are submitted through appointments.
How to contact them:
Website: Final Victory Animal Rescue
Address: 2136 Sumter St. Columbia, SC 29201
Phone: 803-420-3282
Email: [email protected]
You may also reach out through their social media: Facebook and Instagram
2. Pawmetto Lifeline
Living in the midlands of South Carolina, you’ll definitely come across Pawmetto Lifeline, established in 1999. The goal of founding this dog rescue is to create a no-kill community, sparing the lives of thousands of dogs in the state.
Around 2012, they successfully opened a boarding facility both for medical and adoption, which led to them saving 15,000 companion animals. They’ve made a huge initiative that can pave for a lot more dog lives to be rescued.
If you navigate their available dogs, you’ll find dogs as young as 2 months and adult ones who deserve a second chance at life. Once you’ve seen one that interests you, complete an application while they’re available.
How to contact them:
Website: Pawmetto Lifeline
Address: 1275 Bower Pkwy, Columbia SC 29212
Phone: 803-465-9150
Email: [email protected]
You may also reach out through their social media: Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram
3. PETSinc
PETSinc has it all. Whether you’re looking to adopt or to get your dog spayed, what you’re looking for, they got it here. They offer low-cost sterilization surgeries to avoid unwanted and unplanned pregnancies.
You also guarantee that the dogs they post as available for adoption are healthy and suitable for families. You just have to check which one matches your personality, taste, and home environment.
There are other ways in which you can support dog rescues, such as PETSinc, too. Donate whatever amount as long as it comes from the heart. Your financial assistance can go a long way.
How to contact them:
Website: PETSinc
Address: 300 Orchard Drive, West Columbia, SC 29170
Phone: 803-739-9333
Email: [email protected]
You may also reach out through their social media: Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and Instagram
4. Animal Protection League of South Carolina
Animal Protection League of South Carolina is another go-to rescue site for dog adoptions. Countless people have already shared their success stories with their rescued dogs, and you’re the next to share your experience.
Regardless if you want a purebred or a mixed breed, the APLSC has one that can fit into your criteria. Above all, these dogs are big on love, bonding time, and fun moments.
Help free one more space so a new rescue can come in. Visit their site and check out the requirements needed before you can take a pooch home. The adoption fee only starts at $250, reasonable enough to cover part of the expenses.
How to contact them:
Website: Animal Protection League of South Carolina
Address: 6084 Old Leesburg Road, Hopkins, SC 29061
Phone: 803-783-2119
Email: [email protected]
You may also reach out through their social media: Facebook
5. Cullen’s Archangel RescuE
Cullen’s Archangel RescuE started when the founder’s dog, a Greyhound mix, got shot during a home invasion; hence the logo they portray. Though they’re primarily inspired by the bravery of Cullen, this rescue is an all-species sanctuary.
It’s run by volunteers and is a 100% no-kill group. They hold several events around Columbia, so watch out for those. You can smoothly get in touch with them if you’re fully convinced that you’re ready to adopt.
You’re ensured that every dog you take home has undergone a series of tests, vaccinations, and mandatory sterilization. You’re certainly getting the dog as a package and what’s left is for you to grant them a life with memorable experiences.
How to contact them:
Website: Cullen’s Archangel RescuE
Phone: 803-622-9813
Email: [email protected]
You may also reach out through their social media: Facebook
6. Kershaw County Humane Society
Kershaw County Humane Society offers services to the Kershaw residents. If you’re around this area, consider visiting this dog rescue and see their sweet, loving dogs for yourself.
There’s no need for any appointment for a meet and greet once you’ve shown interest in taking home a Fido. You can find several opportunities to help here as well since they welcome foster parents and volunteers to aid them in their mission as animal advocates.
How to contact them:
Website: Kershaw County Humane Society
Address: 128 Black River Road, Camden, SC 29020
Phone: 803-425-6016
Email: [email protected]
You may also reach out through their social media: Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram
7. Homeward Bound Pet Rescue
Homeward Bound Pet Rescue recognizes many dogs’ dreadful fates, such as euthanasia. One of their goals is to save as many lives as they can before it’s too late. And, for them to be able to take in dogs continuously, your contribution will take them a long way.
Adopt one of their dogs to free up space in the rescue center. Consider helping them as well, regardless of the amount of your donation. This ethical group of animal advocates ensures that every penny goes directly to the intended cause.
Also, they’d be able to keep on educating the public on the importance of getting their pets spayed and neutered, so no more dogs add up to the overpopulation issue.
How to contact them:
Website: Homeward Bound Pet Rescue
Phone: 803-454-9094
Email: [email protected]
You may also reach out through their social media: Facebook
8. Danny & Ron’s Rescue
Danny & Ron’s Rescue began in 2005 when Hurricane Katrina hit the land. Many dogs got misplaced, and some of them turned into homeless pets. From that, Danny & Ron’s grew even more. They began rescuing bait dogs for dog-fighting, pooches from puppy mills, and dogs from other shelters.
Their mission doesn’t just stop there. They also provide pet food and supplies to at least 48 elderly people and also pay for their pet’s medical expenses.
With your help, whether you donate or adopt, Danny & Ron’s can do even more. They also have a shop which you can check out. Every purchase that you make will help them little by little.
How to contact them:
Website: Danny & Ron’s Rescue
Phone: 803-900-9800
9. Healing Species
Healing Species is a haven for all dogs. Some pooches suffer from getting eaten out by intestinal worms, while others are chained to a tree, receiving no affection and proper treatment from owners. What Healing Species do is rehabilitate all their rescue dogs and give them a chance for a better life.
You can scan their available dogs and click the link they provided to start with the application. Once you’re approved, you’ll get to meet the team, and they’ll guide you through completing the adoption process.
How to contact them:
Website: Healing Species
Phone: 803-535-6543
Email: [email protected]
You may also reach out through their social media: Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram
Other Sources of Dog Rescues and Adoption
Compatibility is a huge determining factor regarding how successful you and your rescue dog’s relationship will be. If your application for dog adoption has been turned down several times, there’s no reason for quitting. We have more dog rescues and adoption sites you can visit. Indeed, there’s one special dog that’s meant only for you.
1. AKC Rescue Network: The AKC Rescue Network is the country’s largest. It was officially acknowledged by the American Kennel Club last 2013, and the network presents around 160 unique breeds.
Moreover, more than 450 AKC Rescue Network groups are scattered all over the US, so take time to check out which one’s near your place.
According to them, the top 3 reasons owners surrender their dogs are lifestyle changes, lack of time, and incompatibility. Be sure you know the responsibility before adopting and take your time choosing the right dog.
2. Best Friends Save Them All: Best Friends Save Them All is every companion pet’s sanctuary. It’s all thanks to extraordinary people who believe that every pet has a story to tell and that they’re worth saving.
Though they started with meager resources, this sanctuary has made a huge impact and is now approaching and achieving a no-kill community.
3. PAWS: PAWS is where you can also find loads of adoptable dogs. They’re sweet, charming, and ready to live in their furever homes and families.
From cats to dogs, you’ll undoubtedly find one to accompany you in your daily activities and adventures. PAWS always welcome potential adopters, and they’re also encouraging you to help them do more through donations or volunteer efforts.
How Much Would It Cost to Adopt a Dog in Columbia, SC?
A rescue dog in Columbia, South Carolina, often has an adoption fee of around $40 to $250. Puppies are worth more considering they often are the ones that get adopted. They also have several required treatments to undergo before they can go home with you.
Mostly, the adoption fee goes to their vet expenses, which is reasonable.
But, if you’re looking for a dog that doesn’t require as much attention as a puppy, go for adolescent or adult canines. They’re usually only $125 or more, depending on the area’s cost of living.
Meanwhile, senior dogs are also waiting to spend the rest of their lives with you. Don’t let them spend their remaining days in the rescue center. If you can bring them home and take care of them, do so. You’ll make a huge difference in their lives; every moment will be worth living with them.
Is It Worth Adopting a Dog Rescue From Columbia, SC?
Adopting a dog rescue from Columbia, South Carolina, drives many shelter groups and organizations to make more impact on the world, so it’s absolutely worth it. They can’t solely resolve the problem of pet overpopulation, euthanasia, and pet homelessness without your efforts.
Adopting provides a domino effect that will hopefully put an end to seeing homeless dogs on the street. Encourage your friends, loved ones, and others to do the same until no dog is left to be rescued.
There are also other methods to help aside from adopting a dog. Several dog rescues conduct events, may it be campaigns or educating the public about how to treat their pets properly. You can participate as a volunteer or support by aiding in their financial needs.
Of course, the big question is, “Where do I start contributing efforts?” Well, you can start in your community, particularly in Columbia, South Carolina, and gradually reach out to that outside of your localization.
