90% of South Carolina pets are being saved from euthanasia for the first time in state history.

On May 8, 2025, Charleston Animal Society announced the remarkable achievement of making South Carolina a No Kill state in 2024. For the first time in history, 90% of pets entering animal organizations across the Palmetto State were saved from euthanasia, marking a major milestone in animal welfare. This groundbreaking success was spearheaded by No Kill South Carolina (NKSC), a Charleston Animal Society initiative, and powered by Petco Love. The NKSC team has worked tirelessly since 2016 to increase lifesaving in every region of South Carolina.

"Over the course of nine years, more than 892,000 pets were given a second chance at life, demonstrating the incredible impact of statewide collaboration," said NKSC Chief Project Officer Abigail Appleton, PMP, CAWA. "For the first time in history our NKSC Lifesaving Rate is 90%."

To commemorate this monumental achievement and discuss the future of animal welfare in the state, South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster has named May 8th "No Kill South Carolina Day."

Beaufort County Animal Services Director Tallulah Trice attended the announcement ceremony, and shared what this achievement means for Beaufort County: "We're grateful for the vision and shared mission of the No Kill South Carolina initiative. Their mission to improve the lives of South Carolina's most vulnerable pets has united shelters, rescue groups, volunteers, and communities. The Petco Love nonprofit was instrumental in support of this mission, and their challenge grant ensures that this lifesaving work can continue. Beaufort County plans to carry this mission forward by investing in innovative programs and resources to save more adoptable pets in our community."

About Beaufort County Animal Services

Beaufort County Animal Services exists to promote responsible domestic pet/livestock ownership, prevent the spread of animal borne diseases to other domestic pets/livestock and protect the public by seizing public nuisance domestic pets/livestock roaming throughout the County. We provide a temporary shelter for stray, unwanted or homeless domestic pets/livestock, maintain a vigorous relocation program to include health screening, vaccinations and mandatory spay or neutering of same. Beaufort County Animal Services acts in compliance with Federal, State and local laws and regulations and performed by a humane and professional staff. To learn more, or to view adoptable dogs, visit www.beaufortcountysc.gov/animal-services.