In response to growing animal services needs in Jasper County, Beaufort County has stepped forward in partnership to provide support and stability through a new Intergovernmental Agreement (IGA). This collaborative effort reflects a shared regional commitment to public safety and animal care.

Last month, Jasper Animal Rescue Mission (JARM) formally notified Jasper County officials that it would cease intake of animals effective July 1, 2025. With the Fourth of July holiday, a peak period for animal control needs, just days away, Beaufort County began providing immediate assistance to shelter and provide medical care for animals from both Beaufort and Jasper Counties.

In mid-July, Beaufort County Council approved a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that allows continued assistance to Jasper County’s animal control operations for up to one year. This temporary partnership provides a critical bridge of services while allowing officials and stakeholders time to plan a sustainable, open-admission shelter model that better meets the needs of our communities.

“We’re dedicated to helping our neighbors through a challenging time to lay the groundwork for a unified approach to animal services and welfare,” said Tallulah Trice, Beaufort County Animal Services Director. “JARM has done an excellent job over the years taking care of an increasing number of animal needs, and we want to remind everyone that spaying and neutering your pets are essential to fighting the overpopulation issues facing our region.”

With Beaufort County now receiving intakes from both counties, capacity within the facility will be a challenge. To alleviate the strain, a separate MOU with the ASPCA will be activated to both evaluate animal temperament and provide transportation to other rescues. Plans are underway to bring in professional behaviorists to evaluate the dogs currently located at JARM in a new environment before determining their outcomes.

Medical cases and all spay/neuter surgeries will be handled through Beaufort County’s longstanding partnership with Hilton Head Humane, which is expanding its surgical capacity at the Beaufort County campus to meet regional demand. Adoptable animals will be routed through rescue partners and out-of-state placement networks.

“By working together, we can raise the standard of care for animals across our region,” said Andrew Fulghum, Jasper County Administrator. “This partnership will ensure that our community has the tools to manage animal welfare effectively and humanely. We are grateful to the staff and volunteers at JARM for their years of service in this effort.”