CAROLINA TAILS FALL 2018

CAROLINA

TAILS

MEET THE GIBBONS of Summerville

POTBELLY PIGS The Big Myth

FALL 2018

A Charleston Animal Society Publication

7 HOLIDAY TRAVEL TIPS THE FOXES OF MUNI With Your Pet Cutest Caddies Ever!

CAROLINA

TAILS

Publisher: Keith Simmons Editor-in-Chief: Dan Krosse Managing Editor: Joe Elmore Graphic Design: Heineman Design Copy Editor: Eve Baker Writers: Dan Krosse, Ellie Whitcomb Payne, Victoria Hansen, Kathleen Millat Johnson, Helen Ravenel Hammond, Nolan Schillerstrom, Casey L. Taylor, Dr. Shirley McGreal, Joshua Carpenter Costner, Kylie Wiest, Claire R. Grimes, Matthew O’Brien Photographers: Wesley Lane, Jeanne Taylor, Marie Rodriguez, Dan Krosse, Victoria Hansen, Scott Guy, Nolan Schillerstrom Advertising Sales: Ted DeLoach For inquiries regarding advertising, distribution or suggestions in Carolina Tails call (843) 410-2577 or ksimmons@charlestonanimalsociety.org.

2455 Remount Road, North Charleston, SC 29406 (843) 747-4849 www.CarolinaTails.org

President: Hank Greer Vice President: Helen Pratt-Thomas Secretary: Aussie Geer Treasurer: Laurel Greer Members of the Board Kiara Barnett Mary Black Hal Creel, Esq. Henry Darby Martin Deputy Andrea Ferguson Gerri Greenwood Sarah Hamlin Hastings Ellen Harley Patricia Henley

David Maybank, Jr., Esq. Robert Nigro Louise Palmer Dillard Salmons Stevens Diane Straney Joe Waring, Esq. George “Pat” Waters Peter Waters Nancy Worsham Tami Zerbst

Chief Executive Officer: Joe Elmore Media & Marketing Consultant: dpk media solutions

Please contact regarding Carolina Tails distribution, advertising or suggestions. For all other inquiries, please contact Charleston Animal Society. (843) 410-2577 ksimmons@charlestonanimalsociety.org Carolina Tails is published quarterly by Traveler Communications Group, an independent publishing company. PO Box 22677, Charleston, SC 29413 (843 352-9048). Carolina Tails is a registered trademark of Traveler Communications Group. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without the express written permission of the publisher is prohibited.

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Contents FALL 2018

5

Welcome

6

Pet Pointers

8

Pet Events!

10

Meet the Gibbons of Summerville

14

The Big Myth: Why So Many Potbelly Pigs End up Homeless

16

Babe: Saved from the Slaughterhouse

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Advocating for Carriage Horses Continues

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Saying No to Importing Puppies:

20

Fraternity Fosters

22

7 Tips for Holiday Travel with Your Pet

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Holiday Gift Guide

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Hurricane Season: Charleston Animal Society Swings into Action

28

The Great Poo Solution

29

Ask a Lawyer

30

Vet Directory

34

Take Me Home Adoptions

35

Statehouse Spotlight 2019

36

Saving Crab Bank: Thousands of Birds at Risk

38

The Foxes of Muni Golf

40

Kids Corner: Time to Play!

COVER PHOTO: Jade is one of 36 rescued Gibbons who have found safety at the International Primate Protection League (IPPL) Sanctuary in Summerville.

This sanctuary is so secret, that many locals don’t even know it exists. Jade was sent to IPPL from the Honolulu zoo 15 years ago with her mate Palu Palu.

Here she is seen eating bamboo in her outdoor enclosure at the sanctuary. Photo: Wesley Lane.

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Welcome DEAR FRIENDS, As 2018 speeds toward the holidays, we hope you can find a few minutes for yourself to enjoy this issue of Carolina Tails. This issue is special in that we have opened up our pages to several incredible nonprofits who have boots on the ground every day fighting for animals in their own unique way.

As you receive this magazine, hurricane season is still underway.

Inside, learn how Charleston Animal Society took the lead to save animals in harm’s way during and after the broadside by Hurricane Florence. Our team remains on standby to help animals impacted by any additional storms.

This holiday season, we hope you remember to “Adopt, Don’t Shop!” As you’ll read, Dorchester Paws in Summerville has successfully pulled together support from animal shelters and rescues across the Lowcountry to sound the alarm, after a new store, Petland, opened in Summerville and will now offer puppies being brought in from commercial breeders around the country. Make no mistake, this is a 5-alarm situation – because for the past 30 years, every other pet store in the area has only offered shelter animals to help us combat pet overpopulation. Let’s hope Petland reconsiders this policy.

The International Primate Protection League (IPPL) is a secret right in our own backyard. This sanctuary sits on several acres near Summerville and its inhabitants are Gibbons rescued from around the world. Jade graces our cover and she epitomizes the hard work that founder Dr. Shirley McGreal and her team have poured into saving this wonderful species.

Charleston Animal Society Board President Hank Greer with CEO Joe Elmore on We also get to the bottom of “The Big Myth” surrounding potbelly stage at the 2017 Chili Cook-off & Oyster Roast. The 2018 Cook-off takes place pigs. Who knew that so many wind up homeless after owners are Saturday, November 17th and you're invited! Photo: Scott Guy somehow surprised to see their pigs grow beyond the “45-pounds” that their breeder promised? Thankfully, Cotton Branch Farm Animal Sanctuary near Columbia has taken in dozens of these friendly animals (and in fact, gets calls every single day from owners in over their heads). The bottom line, if you don’t have the space and 20-year commitment for a potbelly pig – please don’t adopt one.

The Audubon Society of South Carolina is leading the charge to save Crab Bank. It’s a shrinking spit of land in Charleston Harbor that’s been home to migratory birds for decades. Now, because of storms and erosion, it is evaporating before our eyes, and only a major renourishment project could save this gem of a bird nesting island.

I do want to leave you with a very important invitation. Please come out to Charleston Animal Society’s Chili Cook-off & Oyster Roast November 17th at Riverfront Park in North Charleston. This is our largest fundraiser and we appreciate everyone who comes out for chili or oysters, every team and every sponsor, because each of you is helping us save even more lives. I hope to see you there.

Happy Holidays,

Hank Greer, President

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NEWS:: You Can Use

PET POINTERS

FAL

New L Tidb s its

FORMER CAS EMPLOYEE PROTECTING AFRICAN WILDLIFE Conor Thompson’s face is a familiar one to readers of Carolina Tails magazine. He was on the cover of our last issue highlighting Charleston Animal Society’s “Helping Hands for Rural Paws” outreach program. Well look at him today.

Thompson has since left his outreach position with Charleston Animal Society to lend his services to VETPAW, an organization comprised of veterans who protect African wildlife from poachers.

“This was a dream come true for me,” Thompson said. “I’m excited to join an organization that is protecting elephants, rhinos and other animals that poachers are brutally killing.”

Thompson is an army veteran who served in Iraq. To learn more about VETPAW and its mission, go to www.vetpaw.org.

CAT LOVER’S DREAM JOB

NEW HOPE FOR FEARFUL DOGS Charleston Animal Society has been selected as one of only a handful of shelters from around the country to take part in the ASPCA’s Behavior Rehabilitation Center (BRC) Learning Lab. BRC is located near Asheville, NC. It is committed to the rehabilitation and study of extremely fearful, homeless dogs—most of whom are victims of cruelty or neglect. The program offers select shelters a chance to learn and implement specialized, scientifically-based rehabilitation techniques and targeted sheltering protocols to help homeless dogs overcome fearful behavior that prevents adoption.

“We are so excited by this opportunity,” said Charleston Animal Society Behavior Team Technician Jessie Sanders. “Learning to help fearful dogs will help us save lives.”

Rescues like Charleston Animal Society who participate in the ASPCA Learning Lab will then share their knowledge with other shelters in their area.

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A cat rescue in Greece is offering every cat lover’s dream job! While you will be in charge of 55 cats being cared for by God’s Little People Cat Rescue, you will get to live on the Greek island of Syros with an astounding view of the Aegean Sea. Besides a salary, you will also receive a free place to live, including utilities. You do have to know how to drive a stick shift and you just gotta’ be a cat lover.

Hurry with that resume. The application deadline is November 1, and as of late August, there were already 35,000 applicants.

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Events:: Holiday Season

BARK N BOO IS READY FOR HALLOWEEN! Kia Country of Charleston, 2361 Savannah Hwy, Charleston

Event Calendar

Please join Kia Country of Charleston for the 4th Annual Bark & Boo on Saturday, October 27th from 11 AM-1 PM. Join us for our biggest Bark & Boo ever. Can your pet win, place or show in our annual Pet Costume Contest? Amazing animals available for adoption, fabulous food trucks, live remote broadcasts and music from your favorite radio stations, Charleston’s best pet vendors, children’s games and activities, door prizes, and more.

We will also be celebrating Charleston Animal Society’s Youth Pet Advocates for making a difference in the lives of animals. Please bring a donation for the Pet Food Bank. Bark & Boo—Charleston’s Best Halloween Bash!

Pick Me! SC: Petco Foundation Statewide Adoption Event OCTOBER 5-7 • 30+ SHELTERS & RESCUES ACROSS SOUTH CAROLINA Save a life in this historic, statewide adoption event, by visiting your local animal rescue or shelter and adopting! The goal is to save 1,500 animals in South Carolina over this one weekend.

Latin American Festival OCTOBER 14 • 12PM – 6PM • WANNAMAKER PARK IN NORTH CHARLESTON Come celebrate Latin American culture with Charleston Animal Society and the Charleston County Parks and Rec! Great food, music and fun for the whole family, be sure to visit our table!

Dogtoberfest at Freshfields Village OCTOBER 27 1PM - 5PM FRESHFIELDS VILLAGE, KIAWAH Come share the love for pet rescues from around the Lowcountry at this family-friendly pet event! Great food, fun and pet adoptions for all!

Celebrity Chili Cook-off & Oyster Roast NOVEMBER 17 • 12PM – 4PM • RIVERFRONT PARK, 1001 EVERGLADES AVENUE, NORTH CHARLESTON, SC 29405 Don’t miss the biggest, best chili cook-off ever at Riverfront Park in North Charleston! 5,000 animal lovers came out to support Charleston Animal Society’s medical fund – and enjoyed chili and oysters along the way! Please join us this year as a guest, a team or a sponsor — our community’s animals are depending on you. www.CharlestonAnimalSociety.org/chili

Purple Haze 5k & Dog Dash NOVEMBER 17 • 9AM • DANIEL ISLAND GOVERNOR'S PARK Proceeds from this run will help a person with epilepsy get a new service dog! Come exercise with your dog for a great cause. www.runsignup.com/Race/SC/DanielIsland/2018PurpleHaze5K

Festival of Lights Fun Run DECEMBER 7 & 8 • 6:30PM • JAMES ISLAND COUNTY PARK Join us for a two-mile non-competitive fun run and walk and special preview of the Holiday Festival of Lights at James Island County Park. Get there early, gates close at 6:30pm!

Christmas Eve Pet Deliveries DECEMBER 23, 24 & 25 • CHARLESTON ANIMAL SOCIETY • 2455 REMOUNT ROAD • NORTH CHARLESTON Have your newly adopted pet delivered by elves from Charleston Animal Society and Hendrick Charleston. Just visit the shelter anytime between December 16 - 23 and pick out your new cat or dog and your bundle of love will be delivered to your home in time for Christmas!

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LOWCOUNTRY LIFE:: Saving Primates

Living the Life in Summerville Primate organization is saving thousands of lives.

BY CASEY L. TAYLOR, JD | PHOTOS BY WESLEY LANE

NO MONK BUSIN EY ESS

T

ucked away near Summerville, SC – the place known as “Flowertown, USA” – is a sanctuary dedicated to gibbons (small apes). It’s a jungle-like wonderland that has lifesaving at the core of its mission.

The International Primate Protection League (IPPL) sanctuary is a secret to many locals. It is situated on over 40 acres of land surrounded by lush woods. Neighbors are lucky enough to hear the songs and great calls of these interesting primates throughout the day, but by night, these primates are kept indoors.

The sanctuary is home to 36 gibbons, the smallest of the apes, who have been rescued or retired from laboratories, deplorable “roadside” attractions, or the pet trade. IPPL provides lifetime care to these incredible endangered species and works to educate the community on the plight of gibbons in the wild.

The gibbon residents at the sanctuary have indoor night houses that are hurricane-grade, expansive outdoor habitats, and aerial walkways that give them the choice to safely move about their designated areas as they wish. It is important to the organization that each sanctuary resident is given as much freedom of choice as possible in a captive environment, while keeping them safe.

Despite most residents having a rough start to their lives, they thrive at IPPL. They even have some residents nearing the age of 60!

International Outreach IPPL is a grassroots nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting and preserving the world’s remaining primates, great and small.

For the last 45 years, IPPL has made a global impact by securing export bans on primates from Thailand, Bangladesh, India and Nepal (saving thousands and thousands of lives) and working with over 20 reputable primate rescue and rehabilitation centers in Southeast Asia, Africa, and South America.

IPPL not only supports their efforts to care for native primates who have been rescued and are in need of rehabilitation or lifetime care, but also to thwart poachers and illegal wildlife traffickers, as well as educate local villages and communities on how they can help be part of the solution in preserving native populations of primates.

Small Team, Big Impact With a small but mighty team of animal caregivers, maintenance technicians, office staff, and dog nannies, IPPL provides compassionate lifetime care for every resident, which includes OPPOSITE PAGE: Erin is one of 36 gibbons living at the IPPL sanctuary. All have been rescued from laboratories, roadside attractions or the pet trade. TOP: Bubbles are a big hit with some of the Gibbons like Spanky.

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nutritious and delicious fresh produce three times a day for the gibbons, as well as veterinary care and enrichment -- to stimulate those intelligent minds of theirs!

Forms of enrichment vary from food puzzles that the gibbon must figure out in order to get their healthy treats, to special time with their favorite caregiver. Bubble-blowing is a big hit with some of the gibbons. Tong, who was one of the first four original residents at the sanctuary, loves a good foot rub -- what girl doesn’t?

Absolutely nothing beats a life in the wild, but for these residents that is sadly not a reality. The team at IPPL feels that the least they can do is make the rest of these individuals’ lives the happiest and healthiest they can be. From residents used in invasive human 12 CAROLINA TAILS | FALL 2018

vaccination studies and locomotion tests, to those kept in lessthan-favorable conditions, IPPL’s sanctuary is a safe and loving place for them to thrive and to live as gibbons should.

Casey L. Taylor, JD is the Executive Director of IPPL. The sanctuary is not open to the public as an attraction, but it holds educational events in the community and offers options to visit during special times. Sign up to receive their e-newsletters on their website (www.ippl.org) and be the first to know about opportunities and events.

TOP: The gibbons have expansive outdoor habitats with ropes to swing on, aerial walkways and hurricane-resistant enclosures; OPPOSITE PAGE (top): The IPPL Sanctuary is located in 40 acres of woods just outside of Summerville, SC; (bottom): Tong is a female gibbon who loves foot rubs!

A NOTE FROM IPPL FOUNDER DR. SHIRLEY MCGREAL OBE, PRESIDENT AND BOARD CHAIR Most people have never heard of gibbons. Those that have, often think they are monkeys!

Here’s what you need to know about these amazing animals.

1) They normally weigh 12-20 pounds.

2) They have very long arms and legs.

3) They sing lovely and often very loud songs 4) They live in monogamous pairs, with their offspring, not like most monkeys and baboons who live in troops. At around 7-8 years the parent gibbons drive their offspring out and they form new pairs.

5) In nature they live high in the treetops, safe from most predators except humans with guns.

6) They are territorial and each gibbon pair defends its territory.

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RESCUE:: Pig Sanctuary

When Joshua adopted Oliver, he was told the potbelly pig would only reach 45-pounds. But in reality, that would only occur on a starvation diet. Oliver is now 110-pounds, living happily at Cotton Branch.

G N I V A S PIGS

THE BIG MYTH Why So Many Potbelly Pigs are Abandoned

BY JOSHUA CARPENTER COSTNER

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Ellie Mae is a potbellied pig who loves children. She was rescued by Cotton Branch from a family who lost their home and couldn’t find a new place that allowed pet pigs.

SEVEN YEARS AGO THIS DECEMBER I FIRST ENCOUNTERED “The Big Myth.” It involved a lie about a potbelly pig and my life changed forever.

It started when Oliver, our potbelly pig came to live with us. He was purchased for $1,100 from a breeder in Tampa, FL – and it was there that we encountered “The Big Myth.” The breeder told us Oliver would never grow larger than 45-pounds -- if we fed him the diet she prescribed.

THE MYTH Early on, my husband and I worried about behavior we saw in Oliver.

After much research, we were shocked to discover he was acting out because he was constantly hungry. The diet the breeder gave us was one of starvation!

The Big Myth is that potbellied pigs are guaranteed to stay small (45-pounds). This just isn’t true. The “diets” breeders prescribe are meant to keep them smaller, but at the painful price of abuse, starvation and in many cases, early death.

Oliver was 45-pounds at nine months old but continued growing, as all pigs do, and six years later he weighs 110-pounds! Through our research, we learned more about how many of these amazing creatures are abandoned once they quickly exceed their promised size (The Big Myth); how many are starved due to breeder instructions and how many die horrible and early deaths. Our love of Oliver pushed us head first into advocating for, and rescuing pigs in need!

COTTON BRANCH FARM ANIMAL SANCTUARY Just outside Columbia, SC, we found Cotton Branch Farm Animal Sanctuary. It is a safe haven for abandoned, abused, neglected, and elderly farm animals. While there are many shelters and rescue organizations for animal companions such as cats and dogs, and wildlife, there is a lack of sanctuary for farm animals, who make up 98% of the animals killed in the US each year. Cotton Branch exists to help those animals.

Since joining the team at Cotton Branch, we have met hundreds of pigs, found homes for around 300 in the last four years, and have 96 who call Cotton Branch Farm Animal Sanctuary home. Their personalities, body shapes, and sizes vary as widely as ours do.

Their love and dedication to their human and pig family is as strong as ours. They are emotional beings who express joy, sadness, and anger. They pout, sulk, mourn losses of family members, and they bore easily. They are amazing companion animals, but they require a lot of care and attention. They live an average of 12-20 years, always behaving like a toddler! They amaze and perplex us daily; they make us laugh and give us joy daily.

IS A PIG COMPANION RIGHT FOR YOU? Whether you are interested in a Potbelly Pig, Micro pig, Nano pig, Juliana pig or Teacup pig, your pig is never going to weigh 45pounds as an adult. We have interviewed pig parents, sanctuary directors, rescuers, veterinarians and even scientists asking, “What was the weight of the smallest, healthy adult pig they'd ever personally seen?” The answer was a unanimous 75-80 pounds. The average weight of a miniature pig is 80-150 pounds. That’s a fraction of their 600-1,000-pound relatives, but definitely not a “teacup” by any stretch of the imagination.

Joshua Carpenter Costner with Princess, a teacup pig rescued from a Charlotte Duplex owner who had been told Princess would only grow to be 35-pounds.

She was 180-pounds when rescued.

Before you adopt a pig, ask yourself these questions: • Do I have sufficient fenced space for them to have quality outdoor time?

• Is there a place for my pig to root happily?

• Do I have time to spend with them daily?

• Can I commit to their care for their entire 12-20 year average lifespan?

• Am I open to the possibility of needing to add a second pig companion to keep them company?

Before you adopt, we urge you to answer the questions above and really think about the love and commitment these incredible animals will need from you. If you have questions or would like to support our mission of saving pot belly pigs, please reach out to us at Cotton Branch Farm Animal Sanctuary (www.cottonbranch.org).

Joshua Carpenter Costner is a Director at Cotton Branch Farm Animal Sanctuary near Columbia, SC.

COTTON BRANCH FARM ANIMAL SANCTUARY Cotton Branch educates the public on the conditions the typical farm animal lives in on factory and organic farms, and why farm animal sanctuaries are needed so badly in the US. The sanctuary encourages compassionate choices in our everyday lives when it comes to what people eat, wear, and use for entertainment.

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RESCUE:: Pigs

E SWIN SONG Babe recuperated in his own pen at Charleston Animal Society for 3 weeks.

BABE THE PIG FINDS NEW HOME

Babe getting settled in at his new home with Rachel Goulet.

The 500-pound pig escaped from a truck onto I-26 during rush hour traffic.

BY DAN KROSSE

IT WAS RUSH HOUR MADNESS LIKE no one ever imagined. Cars and trucks coming to a screeching halt after a 500pound pig was seen taking up an entire lane to himself! Somehow Babe the pig had fallen off a truck into the eastbound lanes.

Within minutes of his great escape, Babe the Pig found himself recuperating at Charleston Animal Society, where he then went on to capture the hearts and imagination of the entire city. Especially when word got out that Babe was enjoying meals that included strawberries. As Live 5 News General Manager Dan Cates said in an on-air editorial, “The way I see it, if you fall off a truck on the way to the slaughterhouse, get hit by a car on I-26 and survive, Babe deserves to be spared and live out his life in his favorite mud hole eating as many strawberries as he wants.”

Babe was in guarded condition and was nursed back to health at Charleston Animal Society for more than three weeks.

Eyewitnesses say they saw a car hit Babe and it was the car that actually lifted into the air! “It was a touch and go situation in the beginning,” said Charleston Animal Society Director of Veterinary Care Dr. Margie Morris. “We were worried about the extent of his leg injuries, which is serious in an animal this size.” Staff veterinarians, with the assistance of Dr. Russell Bauman with Saddleback Mobile Veterinary Clinic, routinely examined Babe and found he needed anti-inflammatory drugs, antibiotics and time to heal.

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During that entire time, whoever it was that was driving Babe on that truck, never came looking for him.

Finding Babe a New Home Looking for a new adoptive home for Babe was difficult. At almost the same time as Babe’s accident, one of the largest pig rescues in U.S. history was taking place in Kentucky and many farm sanctuaries were being filled with those animals that needed to be rescued.

That’s when Rachel Goulet came forward and offered her home on Johns Island. “I love pigs,” Goulet said. “I heard about Babe and I already have a pig named Ophelia, so I thought it may be a perfect match.”

When the day came for Babe to see his new home, he was reluctant to come off the Charleston Animal Society rescue truck he was transported in. That’s when Goulet, nicknamed “the pig whisperer” by friends, stepped into the truck, tying a pig leash made of rope around him and slowly coaxed him out. She used a trail of watermelon to lead him to his new pen.

“I was amazed at how much Babe immediately took to Rachel,” said Charleston Animal Society Senior Director of Animal Cruelty & Outreach Aldwin Roman. “The trust between them was immediate and I can’t imagine a happier ending for Babe than finding Rachel and Ophelia.”

As for Babe and Ophelia? They are now sleeping next to each other in their pen during nap times.

Saving Even More Lives The story of Babe is one of thousands that wouldn’t be possible without the support for Charleston Animal Society from people like Rachel and those that give of their time, homes and donations.

“Charleston Animal Society has treated 75,000 animals, including 52 different species, in the past 5 years — and is only able to treat and save animals like Babe because of our supporters’ generous donations,” said Charleston Animal Society CEO Joe Elmore. “We help all creatures to the best of our abilities – and will continue to do so.”

ADVOCACY:: Carriage Horses

THE ADVOCACY FOR CARRIAGE HORSES CONTINUES

Another downed horse in Charleston (Labor Day Weekend). An eyewitness said the driver claimed the horse laid down to take a nap, during the tour!

BY JOE ELMORE, CHARLESTON ANIMAL SOCIETY CEO

“YOU CAN FOOL ALL THE PEOPLE SOME OF THE TIME AND SOME OF THE PEOPLE ALL THE TIME, BUT YOU CANNOT FOOL ALL THE PEOPLE ALL THE TIME.” LAST FALL, WE PROVIDED YOU WITH an update on our efforts to make working conditions more humane for carriage horses in Charleston, home of the harshest working conditions in the nation and one of the most incident prone cities for working horses.

Charleston Animal Society adopted its position on this issue in spring 2015 based on looking into carriage industry practices.

Based on numerous complaints received by the Animal Society, it formed a working committee to address the issue and immediately found five major areas of concern: 1. Heat 2. Load 3. Urban working environment 4. Lack of compliance 5. Lack of enforcement The Animal Society’s position has never changed – it is not against working animals provided that the working conditions and environment are humane and guided by real science. Based on the Animal Society’s research, horses working in Charleston do so under the harshest conditions in the country.

The Study Since 2015, the Animal Society has advocated for a prospective, science-based, peer-reviewed study, the results of which will inform our community, including all interested parties, regarding the humane conditions for the operation of carriage tours in the urban environment downtown.

This proposed study has been endorsed

by the American Association of Equine Practitioners, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, The Humane Society of the United States, local animal organizations, Historic Ansonborough Neighborhood Association, Charlestowne Neighborhood Association and Dr. Ken Marcella (expert equine veterinarian and part of the team that established heat regulations for the Atlanta Olympics).

Significant reform of the current working conditions is needed to make this practice humane for the animals and free of systematic fear and distress for days on end, bringing it in line with other cities across America.

Animal Advocates Under Attack In response to the Animal Society’s advocacy efforts, the carriage industry has brought in local, state and national political firms to organize personal and organizational attacks on the Animal Society and anyone who advocates for more humane working conditions. Recently, one carriage company filed, withdrew, then refiled a lawsuit in a different court instead of facing the music and providing some basis for their claims.

This is a misuse of the court system to distract the public from the real issue, which is making the working conditions of the horses more humane.

While there are petitions calling for the ban of working horses drawing wagons in urban settings numbering over 1 million signatures, the Animal Society has resisted pressure to call for a ban; instead, the Animal Society has offered a compromise by proposing the study. This would provide Charleston with a unique opportunity to lay this issue to rest and serve as a model for cities across the nation and world.

Disinformation Campaign Time and again over the past three years, representatives of the carriage industry have provided the public with both misinformation and disinformation. The carriage industry and their local and national political operatives have attempted to smear and intimidate individuals, businesses and organizations with vile, false and bigoted attacks. This dishonors the enterprise, the City and the process toward improving the working conditions and environment for the animals.

Charleston Animal Society has never attacked an individual, owner or company associated with the carriage horse industry.

However, the Animal Society has endured countless personal and organizational attacks.

It is not only outrageous, but despicable, that the carriage industry is attempting to suppress the Animal Society’s right to make legitimate criticisms and call for action of our elected officials.

Charleston Animal Society has not and does not make false statements. We have exposed the system’s fallacies with the truth.

That’s not defamation. That is America.

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ANIMAL ADVOCACY:: Adoption Threat

PT O D A N’T DO OP! SH

Kim Almstedt adopted "Monkey" from Dorchester Paws. Monkey is a Shorkie, a Shih Tzu/Yorkshire Mix. Monkey is similar to dogs one could buy at Petland for $2,500 - $10,000!

SOUND THE ALARMS Pet Store importing puppies for sale as thousands of local animals remain homeless.

BY KIM ALMSTEDT

THERE WAS A TIME IN OUR COUNTRY when an estimated 15-20 million companion animals were euthanized annually due to overpopulation. According to the ASPCA, this number has decreased to an estimated 1.5 million companion animals facing euthanasia each year. Spay and neuter efforts and increased adoption of shelter animals, among other lifesaving efforts, have contributed to this decrease.

Shelter Animal Adoptions Threatened Unfortunately, the progress we’ve made is being challenged by commercial breeding operations, and the pet stores who sell these commercially-bred animals. In August 2018, for the first time in 30 years, Petland in Summerville, South Carolina, started selling puppies imported from commercial breeding facilities. The implications of this decision critically impact Dorchester County along with every shelter and rescue in the tri-county area.

Dorchester Paws, like many other shelters, is at or above capacity all year long, with record breaking admissions of over 50 animals in one day (May 15, 2018 to be exact). The shelter formerly had their animals for adoption at Petland and were grateful for the partnership. However, the decision by the new owners, to import commercially-bred puppies goes against Dorchester Paws’ mission and therefore the shelter made the painstaking decision to dissolve the partnership.

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“We cannot in good conscience move forward in a relationship with a business knowing that the animals they are bringing into our community will overwhelm an already taxed system,” said Natalie Hutt, President of Dorchester Paws.

S o many people I know are working tirelessly to end unnecessary euthanasia.

This lifesaving effort takes support from an entire community, not just a handful of people. That community includes outstanding pet stores like PetSmart and Petco who exhibit an unwavering mindset to adopt, don’t shop.

How Can You Help?

An animal does not know what zip code they live in; or what a state ordinance means, or the “price tag” that is given them.

They were created for a purpose, a life given by God, and should be treated as such.

But together, each of us can contact our local elected officials and urge them to pass legislation that will keep pet stores from selling pets that aren’t shelter animals.

According to Best Friends Animal Rescue, 24 states already have this kind of legislation at the municipal and county level of government. Let’s get South Carolina going the right direction too.

Kim Almstedt is the Executive Director of Dorchester Paws.

According to the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS): “Responsible breeders do not keep their puppies and dogs in inhumane conditions and they never sell to pet stores or directly over the Internet. Responsible breeders do not appreciate being lumped in with puppy mills, which emphasize profit above the health and wellness of dogs. In order to distinguish themselves from less reputable producers, responsible breeders can take a stand. Puppy mills impact the responsible dog breeding world in a number of ways.”

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FOSTERING:: College Life

K-9 COLLEGE

R FOSTE FRAT

BY MATTHEW O’BRIEN

held accountable on holidays when they were free from classes and wanted to travel home. The Humane Society was also able to provide all the necessities like food, leashes, and cages for each dog staying at the home freeing them from any monetary commitment. However, it was the foster dogs that benefitted the most while waiting for a new home. They got to live the dream of a college pup.

“Our foster program is a critical component to our mission of increasing the save rate of dogs and cats in Forsyth County from 36%

Campus Superstars It was a common image to see the πKA letters on campus accompanied by a wagging tail on a leash at social gatherings. Whether it was a school-wide philanthropic event, a soccer game, or a weekend party; Thomas, Will, and Joey made sure to bring their pups along.

Without fail, each time the dogs ventured out of the house they were swarmed by underclassmen who were not allowed to have dogs in their dorms but craved the simple joy of petting a dog which is a luxury taken for granted back at home. A constant stream of new faces awaited each dog to be adored by while learning how to behave in social environments.

It was Rosco that experienced the most perpetual praise at Wake’s annual “Hit the Brick” event where the entire university raises money for the Brian Piccolo Cancer Research Fund. Donations are raised by participants running around the brick pathed quad in front of the iconic chapel; raising money with each lap. Here Rosco was able to show off his seemingly endless supply of energy with other dogs running at the event.

Each lap he would be handed off by one exhausted fraternity brother to another to be pulled along around the track, only taking breaks for the occasional sorority sister belly rub.

Bonita is one of several dogs fostered by the πKA fraternity at Wake Forest University in North Carolina.

The Legacy Continues Before the three graduates moved on in their lives, they passed “the leash” down to underclassmen in the hopes of them continuing to offer a place for a new line of foster dogs. The three friends showed how easy it was to help the dogs while also enjoying the personality each one brought with them. All the while giving the K-9s a place to thrive, with affection crouched around each corner, until these pets get to meet their new families.

Matthew O’Brien is now a senior at Wake Forest University studying Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, with plans to become a Doctor. He’s also a member of πKA. Go to CharlestonAnimalSociety.org/foster to help locally.

Fraternity Brothers with πKA posing with two of their foster dogs at Wake Forest University.

THE CAMPUS OF WAKE FOREST University sits on the edge of a once buzzing city, Winston-Salem, which is planted in the middle of the Tobacco Belt in central North Carolina. And like many other college towns, Winston-Salem is challenged by the plight of homeless animals.

Each year, 3,600 dogs are taken into nearby shelters. To help with the problem, the Forsyth Humane Society and three recent graduates of Wake Forest have figured out a way to take on the growing need for kennel space for dogs as they wait for adoption.

Four-Legged Pledges Every two weeks, there is a new name to learn for the members of the Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity at Wake. Three alumni, William Tennant, Joseph Diaz, and Thomas Eberle decided their senior year to house a dozen different dogs at their off-campus home while they awaited adoption. The three roommates reached out to the Forsyth Humane Society offering their home as a fostering location, and since then the likes of “Rosco, Chip, Becky, Jackie, Bonita” and others have spent time being a part of the Wake Forest community.

The bright idea was instantly a hit after realizing how beneficial it was for all the parties involved. The three housemates loved the company of the dogs while not being

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in 2017 to 90% by 2023,” said Forsyth Humane Society Director of Marketing and Development Darla Kirkeeng. “We are grateful to have a group of dedicated students donate their time and provide a temporary home. We refer to our fosters as heroes, because with their help, we have the ability to rescue more homeless animals."

TRAVEL:: New Pet Rules

7 TIPS FOR HOLIDAY TRAVEL WITH YOUR PET

BY CLAIRE R. GRIMES

LAST YEAR, A WHOPPING 507,000 animals were flown commercially in the United States, according to the Department of Transportation. Unfortunately, 24 of these animals died from the conditions of their flights, which resulted in various airlines altering their pet flight policies to ensure better safety and standards of care for pets.

Airlines are now reaching out to animal organizations to reshape their policies to improve their safety records. These changes can bring confusion for all of us who are planning to visit family over the holidays.

Here are seven tips to know before you board a plane with your pet: 1. KNOW IF YOUR PET CAN EVEN FLY It is important to research individual airline’s policies and restrictions to ensure the best flight for both you and your pet. For example, new breed restrictions involving brachycephalic (or snub-nosed) dogs and cats and strong-jawed breeds have taken effect. 21 dog breeds and four cat breeds are now prohibited from flying with United Airlines, “out of concern for higher adverse health risks,” according to the airline. There are even restrictions involving total hours of travel and number of connecting flights that may prevent you from bringing your companion aboard.

Travelers can explore their airline’s website or online resources like ‘Bring Fido’ to search various airlines’ pet policies for both commercial and international flights: www.BringFido.com.

2. EARLIER IS BETTER After researching which flight would best fit both your and your pet’s travel needs, begin booking as soon as possible. Be sure not to book your ticket before calling your airline directly to check availability for your pet. Once confirmed, book both your flight and your pet’s while dealing directly with the agent over the phone.

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AY D I L HO VEL TRA

BONUS TIP: Call the airline 24 to 48 hours before your flight to reconfirm your pet’s travel.

3. FIT TO FLY? Many airlines require veterinary certification, especially an up-to-date rabies vaccination.

Depending on your airline, veterinary documents must be obtained within 10 days of your flight. Taking your pet to the vet to obtain these records will also give your veterinarian a chance to evaluate your animal’s overall health to assess if they are healthy enough for flying. Airlines reserve the right to refuse an animal if they have a preexisting medical condition that is a cause for concern.

4. PET CARRIER GUIDELINES While reviewing your airline’s pet policy, you will notice specific guidelines for pet carriers, including: ventilation requirements, size requirements and prohibited items inside the crate. It is VITAL to follow these guidelines for your pet’s safety.

BONUS TIP Get your pet acclimated to the carrier in the weeks before your trip.

5. NO DRUGS FOR FIDO Many airlines now prohibit the use of sedatives to keep your pets calm during flight due to health risks. Be sure to discuss with your veterinarian alternative methods

to keep your dog or cat calm for travel. If sedatives are necessary, as prescribed by your vet, be sure to have documentation and check with your airline before your travel date.

6. BEFORE FLIGHT CHECKLIST Make a checklist of ‘Things To Do’ the day of your flight to ensure maximum comfort for your pet. Feed your dog or cat two to four hours before the flight to prevent them from getting sick. Give your animal water up until the time of the flight, throwing out the remaining water before checking in.

Be sure your pet also gets exercise and uses the bathroom before heading out to the airport.

7. EXTREME WEATHER Choosing times of day during certain seasons (i.e. mid-day flights during winter), direct flights and avoiding holiday/weekend travel is important in ensuring your pet is not subjected to traveling in extreme heat or cold. Some airlines even prohibit pet travel to certain cities during certain months.

If you must travel during extreme weather conditions, airlines will require a letter from your vet stating your animal can handle extreme weather.

Sources: www.cbsnews.com, www.bringfido.com, www.united.com

1

GIFT GUIDE 2018

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Honor your fur-babies this holiday season with inspired gifts from pet shops right here in the Lowcountry.

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1. CHARLESTON ANIMAL SOCIETY RETAIL STORE NORTH CHARLESTON Why does Fido have a spotted tongue? Why does he bark at every passing car? This Wisdom Panel 3.0 DNA Kit could have all your questions answered.

Make the Charleston Animal Society Logo Hat your new wardrobe staple. You’ll look great and feel even better knowing your purchase helped save a life!

2. ALL IS WELL WEST ASHLEY Stella & Chewy’s Wild Weenies Dog Treats are freeze-dried raw, grain free and made with real meat. Each bag is formulated to mirror the best nutrition for your pet.

3. BARK N MEOW JOHNS ISLAND The awesome Eco Cat Cave by LeSharma Trading is handmade with 100% wool. This unique creature comfort will be your kitty’s favorite hiding spot!

Slimcat Feeder Ball is a fun and healthy way to dispense your cats food.

It distributes an adjustable amount of food to help maintain optimum weight while inspiring play and exercise.

4. HOLLYWOOD FEED Hollywood Feed Mississippi Made Donut Beds are made for comfort, durability, and washability. Every detail of our dog beds, from the patches to the zippers, is made in America, assembled in Mississippi, and built to last.

5. CANNA BONEZ JAMES ISLAND The Hemp Extract Treats for Dogs are made-to-order treats that can help ease anxiety or pain from injury or sickness. They are made with whole plant medical grade hemp and real ingredients you’re likely to find in your own kitchen.

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TAKE ‘EM TO SCHOOL For the more studious pet lover, a gift certificate for some puppy classes might be the perfect thing! Charleston Animal Society has a wide variety of classes. Trident Tech offers a short curriculum of inexpensive courses ranging from Dog Park Etiquette to Pet Emergency Care. The Charleston Dog Wizard has an On Leash Mini Group class teaching people and their pets the basics of leash manners.

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DOGGIE DAY OUT! Wow your close friends with a doggie day out! Set up a playdate at Creekside Pet Retreat on Johns Island or a shampoo and a haircut at Preppy Pet in Goose Creek. Both businesses offer much more than long-term pet boarding and have gift card options. End an afternoon on Shem Creek at dog friendly Red’s Icehouse.

Or go for the gold! A gold pass for Charleston County Parks will be the gift that keeps on giving. The annual pass gives you access to awesome dog parks and admission to popular, pet-friendly activities like Pet Fest and Yappy Hour.

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HURRICANE SEASON:: Emergency Response

HURRICANE SEASON 2018

REA TO S DY ERV E

Charleston Animal Society responds to animals in harm's way.

BY DAN KROSSE

120 ANIMALS AND COUNTING were evacuated away from the coast as Hurricane Florence approached the Carolinas. Dogs, kittens, and rabbits were all part of the emergency transports. Five abandoned animals were also rescued during the storm and Charleston Animal Society's Senior Director of Anti-Cruelty & Outreach Aldwin Roman deployed to North Carolina to help with the ASPCA's search and rescue efforts.

As of press time, floodwaters continue to rise in the Pee Dee region and four Charleston Animal Society staff members were heading there to help run the emergency animal shelter organized by State Emergency Management, ASPCA and Red Rover.

Charleston Animal Society was not alone in its efforts. Other partners included the Humane Society of the United States, ASPCA, Grandstrand Humane Society, Greenville County Animal Care, the SPCA Albreicht Center for Animal Welfare in Aiken, the Humane Society of Charlotte and South Carolina Animal Care & Control Association.

Hurricane Season continues through November 1.

Bailey Gruber gets a goodbye kiss from a dog as she and Charleston Animal Society CEO Joe Elmore load the dog up for transport before Hurricane Florence.

Devin Teague and Ashlee Rosado go over final paperwork during the transport of 42 dogs from Grandstrand Humane Society in Myrtle Beach before Hurricane Florence.

The team at Charleston Animal Society met several times to plan their response for animals before, during and after Hurricane Florence.

Jesse Sanders and Devin Teague load up kittens for transport to Charlotte.

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The Humane Society of the United States helped coordinate the response between various shelters in South Carolina.

Employees at Greenville County Animal Care greet dogs evacuated from Myrtle Beach by Charleston Animal Society.

A dog being walked out of Granstrand Humane Society, just before transport

by Charleston Animal Society to Greenville County Animal Care.

The team at Greenville County Animal Care was instrumental in the evacuation of animals from the Pee Dee region.

Joe Elmore briefing staff at Charleston Animal Society on the potential impacts for animals as Hurricane Florence approached the Carolinas.

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COMMUNITY:: Canines

POO DLY FRIEN Dog poo emoji stickers let neighbors in Oak Terrace Preserve in North Charleston know it's OK to toss your dog's poo in your garbage can.

THE GREAT POO SOLUTION

BY HELEN RAVENEL HAMMOND | PHOTOS BY MARIE RODRIGUEZ

ANYONE WHO HAS WALKED A DOG through a neighborhood has encountered the age-old question: “Would my neighbor mind if I tossed my dog’s poo bag in their garbage can?”

Tasha Gandy and Amanda Hollinger live in Oak Terrace Preserve in North Charleston and never thought they’d find themselves on the forefront of “poo politics.”

They both enjoy going on walks with their dog and young son. When they noticed a Facebook discussion on whether it was acceptable to put your dog’s poo in a neighbor’s trash can, they decided to take action.

Dog owners say the stickers take the stress out of tossing poo in the wrong can.

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“As new dog owners, we liked the idea of having convenient cans around during our walks but didn't want to dispose of pet waste in just anyone's can, especially if they didn't want it there,” Amanda explains.

Emoji to the Rescue To keep the peace amongst the neighbors, Tasha and Amanda bought a bunch of poo emoji stickers...and if you were "poo friendly" you picked up a sticker and put it on your garbage can! This way, dog walkers knew where they could safely - and politely- drop their dog's doo-doo.

"I think it gave people a chuckle because it's such a ridiculous subject," Amanda said.

“But now that emoji is everywhere.”

So far, they have had to reorder stickers for a total of 80, and they are going quickly.

“In a small neighborhood, that's a lot of interest,” she said. Amanda added that she would definitely recommend it for other neighborhoods, as it is an easy way to meet your neighbors when they come by for a sticker.

Sticker Shock?

At least neighbors are picking up after their pets. In North Charleston poo perpetrators can be taken to court and fined up to $1,087.

Dana Adkins, who also lives in Oak Terrace Preserve, says the poo emoji stickers were a creative way for neighbors to solve the problem. "People want to go on walks but not have to carry their dog's poop for 2-3 miles," said Adkins. And of course, neighbors who don't have pets don't want their garbage can filled with feces.

One sign that the poo stickers are working?

There is a lot less griping on the Facebook page.

"I do wonder sometimes what the people who work for the city sanitation service think when they see those stickers," Amanda chuckled.

LAW & ORDER:: Your Pets

GOAT BLOAT

ASK A LAWYER No matter how much we love our pets, there’s always the chance they will run into a legal situation. Attorney David Aylor took time to answer questions from our readers in this edition of Ask a Lawyer.

QUESTION: While at an ag show last year, our family's goat ate something that made him extremely sick. It happened overnight when we were not there. He survived, but it took $2,000 in medical bills to figure everything out. My discussions with the ag show people are going nowhere. Any legal solutions you can suggest?

--Paula, Green Pond DAVID AYLOR: You should contact the State Livestock-Poultry Health Commission and inquire about the ag show operator's surety bond, which could possibly cover the medical bills. Generally, the operator of a public livestock market must file with his application for a permit a $2,000 surety bond to secure the performance of all obligations incident to the operation of the livestock market. If you can show that the operator of the market did not perform his/her duties in operating the market consistent with the relevant rules and regulations, then the bond could be used to cover your damages.

QUESTION: My child was playing at a friend's house and was bitten by their cat.

His bite injury required extensive IV medications and multiple trips to the doctor.

How do we approach the family for help with expenses? Are they legally bound to help pay?

--Martin, Hanahan

DAVID AYLOR: Depending on your relationship with the cat owner, a letter or phone call requesting their homeowner’s or renter’s insurance information would be the best place to start. Generally, the animal owner is liable for the damages suffered by the person bitten or otherwise attacked. In most instances, the cat or animal owner’s homeowner’s or renter's insurance, if available, will provide coverage for such an incident. Insurance coverage amounts can vary and policies can contain certain exclusions or limitations that may affect coverage, but, if there is insurance, it should cover your child’s medical bills and other damages.

David Aylor with his son Fletcher and English Lab, Belle.

QUESTION: Me and my ex-girlfriend both loved our black lab. But now she won't give me my dog's AKC papers (Jasper now lives with me). If I want to breed Jasper, I really need those papers. Any advice?

--"ExJasperated”, West Ashley DAVID AYLOR: You could file a suit in small claims court to ask a judge to order that she return the AKC papers to you.

You would most likely be required to establish ownership of the dog by presenting veterinary records, microchip records, pedigree registries, etc. Another option would be to contact AKC and request duplicate documentation.

If you have a legal question regarding pets, write us at CarolinaTails@CharlestonAnimalSociety.org and we will try and get it answered for you.

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VET DIRECTORY Charleston

West Ashley

North Charleston

Saddleback Mobile Veterinary Service (843) 718-4299 Mobile

Air Harbor Veterinary Clinic (843) 556-5252 1925 Savannah Hwy, Charleston, SC 29407

Animal Hospital of North Charleston (843) 352-8404 8389 Dorchester Rd, North Charleston, SC 29418

All Creatures Veterinary Clinic (843) 579-0030 224 Calhoun St, Charleston, SC 29401 Patrick Veterinary Clinic (843) 722-4470 667 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29403 Charleston Harbor Veterinarians (843) 410-8290 280 Rutledge Ave, Charleston, SC 29403 Olde Towne Veterinary Clinic (843) 723-1443 17 Pinckney St, Charleston, SC 29401

Bees Ferry Veterinary Hospital (843) 769-6784 3422 Shelby Ray Ct, Charleston, SC 29414 West Ashley Veterinary Clinic (843) 571-7095 840 St Andrews Blvd, Charleston, SC 29407 Animal Care Center (843) 556-9993 1662 Savannah Hwy #135, Charleston, SC 29407 Animal Medical West (843) 766-7387 704 Orleans Rd, Charleston, SC 29407 Charleston Veterinary Referral Center (843) 614-8387 3484 Shelby Ray Ct, Charleston, SC 29414 VCA Charles Towne Animal Hospital (843) 571-4291 850 Savannah Highway Charleston, SC 29407 Banfield Pet Hospital (843) 766-7724 2076 Sam Rittenberg Blvd, Charleston, SC 29407

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Lowcountry Pet Wellness Clinic (843) 556-7387 5900 Rivers Ave, Unit D-1, North Charleston, SC 29406 Veterinary Specialty Care (843) 793-2161 3163 West Montague Ave, North Charleston, SC 29418 Dorchester Veterinary Hospital (843) 552-0259 5617 Dorchester Rd, North Charleston, SC 29418 Coastal Carolina Veterinary Specialists (843) 747-1507 3163 W Montague Ave, North Charleston, SC 29418 Charleston Heights Veterinary Clinic (843) 554-4361 2124 Dorchester Rd, North Charleston, SC 29405 Northwoods Veterinary Clinic (843) 553-0441 8320 Rivers Ave, North Charleston, SC 29406 The Animal Hospital of North Charleston (843) 608-8948 8389 Dorchester Rd, North Charleston, SC 29418 Banfield Pet Hospital (843) 797-4677 7620 Rivers Ave, Charleston, SC 29406

::

COMMUNITY

2016 Chili Cook-Off

Charleston Animal Society and Carolina Tails want to always promote the best habits for animal care possible and seeing your veterinarian regularly is key to having a happy, healthy animal.

Mount Pleasant Exotic Vet Care (843) 216-8387 814 Johnnie Dodds Blvd, Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 East Cooper Animal Hospital (843) 884-6171 993 Johnnie Dodds Blvd, Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 Island Veterinary Care (843) 628-1941 Mobile Mount Pleasant Animal Hospital (843) 884-4921 1213 Ben Sawyer Blvd, Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 Pet Vet Animal Hospital (843) 416-9304 307 Mill St, Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 Shuler Animal Hospital (843) 884-4494 1769 Highway 17 N, Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 Veterinary Specialty Care (843) 216-7554 985 Johnnie Dodds Blvd, Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 Advanced Animal Care of Mount Pleasant (843) 884-9838 3373 S Morgans Point Rd, Mount Pleasant, SC 29466

Animal Eye Care of the Lowcountry (843) 881-2242 1131 Queensborough Blvd Suite 100, Mount Pleasant, SC 29464

Tidewater Veterinary (843) 856-7300 1964 Riviera Dr Suite G, Mount Pleasant, SC 29464

Animal Medical Center of Mt. Pleasant (843) 881-5858 958 Houston Northcutt Blvd, Mount Pleasant, SC 29464

Banfield Pet Hospital (843) 971-7460 911 Houston Northcutt, Mount Pleasant, SC 29464

Cats Only Animal Hospital (843) 849-1661 1492 B North Highway 17, Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 Long Point Animal Hospital (843) 971-7701 757 Long Point Rd, #B, Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 Palmetto Veterinary Hospital (843) 881-9915 2443 Hwy 17 N, Mount Pleasant, SC 29466 Park West Veterinary Associates Park West Veterinary Associates Simply Spay & Neuter (843) 856-9190 1054-C Johnnie Dodds Blvd, Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 Southeast Veterinary Dermatology & Ear Clinic (843) 849-7770 1131 Queensborough Blvd Suite 100, Mount Pleasant, SC 29464

Banfield Pet Hospital (843) 971-7460 (843) 388-1701 676 Long Point Rd, Mount Pleasant, SC 29464

Isle of Palms Sandy Cove Veterinary Clinic (843) 885-6969 1521 Palm Blvd, Isle of Palms, SC 29451

James Island Folly Road Animal Hospital (843) 762-4944 1038 Folly Rd, Charleston, SC 29412 Charleston Veterinary Care (843) 789-3222 51 Windermere Blvd, Charleston, SC 29407 Maybank Animal Hospital (843) 795-3131 1917 Maybank Hwy, Charleston, SC 29412

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ANIMAL CARE

James Island

Goose Creek

Oceanside Veterinary Clinic (843) 795-7574 1509 Folly Rd, Charleston, SC 29412

Creekside Veterinary Clinic (843) 824-8044 431-G St. James Ave, Goose Creek, SC 29445

Sea Islands Veterinary Hospital (843) 795-6477 1310 Camp Rd, Charleston, SC 29412

Mt. Holly Veterinary Clinic (843) 405-7765 113 St. James Ave, Goose Creek, SC 29445

James Island Veterinary Hospital (843)795-5295 756 Folly Rd, Charleston, SC 29412

Animal Medical Clinic of Goose Creek (843) 569-3647 102 Central Ave, Goose Creek, SC 29445

Central Veterinary Hospital (843) 851-2112 1215 Central Ave, Summerville, SC 29483

Banfield Pet Hospital (843) 406-8609 520 Folly Rd, Charleston, SC 29412

Goose Creek Veterinary Clinic (843) 553-7011 501 Redbank Rd. Goose Creek, SC 29445

Shambley Equine Clinic (843) 875-5133 122 Kay Ln, Summerville, SC 29483

Hanahan

Knightsville Veterinary Clinic (843) 851-7784 478 W Butternut Rd, Summerville, SC 29483

Pet Helpers Spay and Neuter Clinic (843) 302-0556 1447 Folly Rd, Charleston, SC 29412

Johns Island Angel Oak Animal Hospital (843) 559-1838 3160 Maybank Hwy, Johns Island, SC 29455

Best Friends Animal Clinic (843) 414-7455 1000 Tanner Ford Blvd, Hanahan, SC 29410 Hanahan Veterinary Clinic (843) 744-8927 1283 Yeamans Hall Rd, Hanahan, SC 29410

Bohicket Veterinary Clinic (843) 559-3889 3472 Maybank Hwy, Johns Island, SC 29455

Ladson

Johns Island Animal Hospital (843) 559-9697 1769 Main Rd, Johns Island, SC 29455

College Park Road Veterinary Clinic (843) 797-1493 186 College Park Rd, Ladson, SC 29456

Riverbank Veterinary Clinic (843) 277-2250 2814 Maybank Hwy, Johns Island, SC 29455

Moncks Corner

Southside Animal Hospital (843) 556-6969 3642 Savannah Hwy Suite 176 West Ashley Place, Johns Island, SC 29455 Sun Dog Cat Moon (843) 437-0063 2908 Maybank Hwy, Johns Island, SC 29455

Daniel Island Daniel Island Animal Hospital (843) 881-7228 291 Seven Farms Dr, Daniel Island, SC 29492 Lowcountry Home Vet (843) 406-2997 Mobile

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Lowcountry Pet Hospice and Home Euthanasia (843) 640-9755 Mobile

Summerville Sangaree Animal Hospital (843) 494-5121 1665-A N Main St, Summerville, SC 29486 Sangaree Animal Hospital at Cane Bay (843) 494-5121 1724 State Rd, Unit 5D, Summerville SC 29486 Banfield Pet Hospital (843) 832-0919 470 Azalea Square Blvd, Summerville, SC 29483

Flowertown Animal Hospital (843) 875-6303 1401 Bacons Bridge Rd, Summerville, SC 29485 Westbury Veterinary Clinic (843) 873-2761 1497 W 5th North St, Summerville, SC 29483

Nemasket Veterinary Clinic (843) 871-4560 605 Miles Rd, Summerville, SC 29485 Oakbrook Veterinary Clinic (843) 871-2900 1705 Old Trolley Rd, Summerville, SC 29485 Sweetgrass Animal Hospital (843) 225-9663 9730 Dorchester Rd Suite 101, Summerville, SC 29485 Summerville Pet Clinic (843) 718-8980 1915 Old Trolley Rd Summerville SC 29485

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RESCUE:: Adopt, Don’t Buy!

TAKE ME HOME

UE RESC ME

As we approach the holidays, can you make room for one more and give one of these animals a new home?

Come see us at 2455 Remount Road in North Charleston or visit: www.CharlestonAnimalSociety.org.

Dog Photography: Jeanne Taylor / JTPetPics.com; Cat Photography: Marie Rodriguez / MarieRodriguezPhotography.com

Why they named me Blue I’ll never understand.

They should’ve named me Muhammad Ali, because I like to bop the other dogs with my paws and then get chased in playgroups! I’m great with other pups, please come see me!

Hi I’m Eliza, an older Welsh Corgi mix. Did you know the Queen of England owns Corgis? I’m kind of like her, a bit older, regal and definitely enjoy some “me time.” Come visit, no bowing necessary.

So, not to brag, but I quickly rose to the top of the class at CAS and became a “greeter dog” for the playgroups. That means I got along with EVERYONE as a model citizen. Just ask for Lady the hound mix on your next visit.

My name’s Willie Nelson and I can’t wait to get on the road again to my new home with you. I’m a medium-sized dog with a great personality, who loves to play in the water! Please adopt, just in time for the holidays!

Hello, the cool fall nights are here and I'm looking to snuggle! Come say hello and ask for Sneakers. I promise it will be worth your trip.

Well, well, well. I thought you'd never flip to this page in the magazine! I'm Jack and I'm pretty comfy at Charleston Animal Society, but I'm looking for some more spacious digs -perhaps your place? Please come adopt!

Hey, come double your trouble....we mean love...and adopt us both at Charleston Animal Society. We love to pose for really cute pictures and hope you come by soon to adopt.

Hi, I'm Pim, anxiously awaiting my new home.

I hear you may be interested in a distinguished looking cat who's playful, friendly and an excellent cuddler? Come visit me.

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ANIMAL LEGISLATION:: Columbia Report

STATEHOUSE SPOTLIGHT 2019

AN ADVOIMAL CAC Y

What’s on tap for animal legislation in the New Year? BY ELLIE WHITCOMB PAYNE STATE ANIMAL CARE ADVOCATES have a voice in Columbia through the South Carolina Animal Legislative Committee.

This group works to promote laws “aimed at a positive environment for animals and those charged with their care,” according to chairwoman Denise Wilkinson who also serves as the CEO for Pawmetto Lifeline in Columbia. She explains three priorities for the upcoming legislative session, which begins January 8.

• Overpopulation: Spring and summer bring with it an explosion of litters at animal shelters. A proposed bill would shorten the length of stay for kittens and puppies under five-months-old, allowing shelters to more quickly move them into life-saving situations. The committee acknowledges concerns about giving owners time to reclaim animals but, Wilkinson adds, it is very rare that a person comes in looking for a “lost litter.” The bill would not change the 5-day retention period for older strays.

• Inhumane Treatment: “The number one complaint I get from citizens in our community,” says Wilkinson, “is about a dog living on a chain without proper shelter, food or water.” The aim of this bill would be to define “proper food and shelter” for pets and protect animals from being incessantly tied or chained without proper cause. The committee underscores the intention is not to ban tethering.

• Unnecessary Euthanasia: The committee plans to recommend a bill to protect the bully breed, one that will focus on a licensing fee for unaltered pit bulls.

“Pit bulls are still dying in municipal shelters at a higher rate than any other dog nationwide.” Pit bulls are notoriously kept intact to preserve their aggressive nature (a theory many animal advocates refute).

This bill would attempt to control the population by encouraging spaying and neutering, limiting availability of pit bulls for those who want them for fighting or breeding for profit.

In the last session, bill S0841 addressing inhumane tethering and litter retention at shelters failed when representatives ultimately couldn’t make inroads about the

lengthy legislation. By separating the bill into three issues, the committee hopes for success. Committee member Marli Drumm explains that improving laws affecting our animals can save exponential lives. “When the public sees what we are doing, it gives us a way to explain why” says Drumm.

“The more [people] understand the overall effort, the more likely they are to get on board and support those efforts in various ways.”

Sen. Paul Campbell represents District 44 and chairs the Senate Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee that oversees animal welfare legislation. He spoke with us about some issues that could be up for debate in the 2019 General Assembly.

Q: What do you see as a priority for animals in the coming year?

Campbell: Last year I served on a committee that traveled all over the state asking what the animal societies, clinics and veterinarians were looking for. Working with Vincent Sheheen, we introduced bill S0841 (tethering bill), which ultimately died in the house. I want to go back and look at the final bill a make some adjustments for [the upcoming] year.

Q: Do you think inhumane tethering could be a part of that bill again?

Campbell: I will certainly be looking at

being a sponsor or a cosponsor of a [inhumane tethering] bill. If you tether a dog outside in hot or cold weather with no access to shelter, water or food, that is cruel and unusual punishment. If there is anything on the books that will cover this, maybe what we need to do is have a tougher penalty on it.

Q: Are you for shortening the retention for litters at shelters?

Campbell: I don’t know if I want to shorten the time to keep a litter or not but I know it can end up with overpopulation. I think if [shelters] can follow the best practices [for spay and neutering], we can stop a lot of unwanted litters.

Q: In a perfect animal world, what would South Carolina look like?

Campbell: Pets add so much comfort to the family in times of crisis. They must be treated with respect. We have a lot of veterinarians that are super good and they have made [investments in their practices] but at the same time I want shelters to be able to treat animals well too. Free clinics on spay and neuter I think are fabulous, and we should do more of that. Charleston leads the state in the proper care of animals.

[Charleston] is a no-kill place, and that is exactly where I want to be in the rest of the state.

BIRDS:: Saving Habitat A 2012 aerial view of Crab Bank taken before the erosion problem began to wash away this important habitat. Photo: Christy Hand.

SAVING CRAB BANK A Crucial Lowcountry nesting ground is washing away.

BY NOLAN SCHILLERSTROM

ING WASH ?

AWAY

FOR DECADES, CRAB BANK HAS PLAYED an important role in supporting South Carolina’s coastal bird populations. At its peak, this tiny island near the mouth of Shem Creek in Mt. Pleasant was home to 5,000 nesting birds at one time.

Due to erosion from increasing wakes and a series of intense hurricanes, this Seabird Sanctuary island is now experiencing its first year ever with zero nests—and the fate of those coastal birds that have always considered Crab Bank “home” hangs in the balance.

The planned deepening of the Charleston Harbor presents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to restore this critical avian habitat using the sand dredged from the channel. But South Carolina’s Department of Natural Resources must raise an estimated $1.5 million by December of 2018 to make the project a reality.

So we’re asking local leaders, businesses, organizations, and nature lovers alike to join us in our mission to Save Crab Bank—and be a part of the largest conservation project that South Carolina’s coast has ever seen.

Carolina’s coasts. Today, Crab Bank is one of only five islands remaining that offers all the protections these birds need to successfully nest and raise their young.

The decline of this vital nesting habitat is bad news for bird lovers in South Carolina, and even worse for our declining populations

Why Crab Bank?

Once upon a time, coastal birds had the run of some 3,000 undisturbed islands off South

Crab Bank is one of only five islands along the South Carolina coast that offers protection for birds like this Brown Pelican nesting with its offspring.

Photo: Felicia Sanders.

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of coastal birds. In North America, seabirds have declined by an alarming 70% since the 1950s; and shorebirds are declining at an even faster rate, decreasing 70% since the 1970s.

Crab Bank also provides a unique opportunity for hundreds of thousands of people every year to experience and learn about the intense nesting process of coastal birds like Brown Pelicans, Royal Terns, and Black Skimmers. Kayakers, Shem Creek Park walkers, and restaurant-goers alike all encounter these magnificent birds because of Crab Bank. Thousands of local school children have paddled around Crab Bank and local homeowners and businesses also benefit from the protection the island provides from wind, waves, and storm surge.

YOU ARE A BIRD’S HOPE If you’re reading this, you understand that South Carolina’s beautiful surroundings and abundant wildlife create tangible value for our state and coastal communities. That’s why we’re asking you to make a donation to Save Crab Bank, and be a part of the largest conservation project that our coast has ever seen. You can donate at sc.audubon.org/ crabbank.

Nolan Schillerstrom is the Coastal Program Coordinator with Audubon South Carolina.

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FOXES:: Par for The Course

COOL CADD IES

The Foxes

BY VICTORIA HANSEN

D

usk descends as a strangely cool breeze brushes across the greens. A couple of stragglers take their parting shots, lingering in the fading light. Ted Kornya, a volunteer with the Charleston City Golf Course, rounds up water coolers from his cart. He too takes his time, with watchful eyes that suddenly grow wide.

Fairway Foxes “I’ve seen two before, but this is the first time I’ve seen three,” says Kornya. Wait, make that four! Kornya is seeing red foxes sprawl out on mounds of sand and in the grass along the fairways of the municipal golf course affectionately called “The Muni” on Maybank Highway. Kornya has played here for nearly 40 years and says the foxes are regulars, “but they’re really putting on a show tonight,” he says.

The bigger male stands tall, stretching for a photo op, licks his lips, and then curls up in a ball, clearly not impressed by the golf cart. He appears as if he’s posed on snow for National Geographic.

A fluffy tailed youngster creeps up behind, then darts off, only to reappear pestering the snoozing senior. Attempts at play end with a swift swipe.

Carolina Tails Editor Dan Krosse recently had an encounter with two foxes after his ball landed in the middle of a fairway. “It was as if they were as surprised as I was that I actually hit a good shot,” Krosse says. Both appeared to be young foxes. One watched from behind the golf clubs. The other stopped just short of his ball.

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One of the foxes checks out a golf ball that landed in a fairway. DNR officials say the youngsters may think the golf balls are eggs. Photo: Dan Krosse.

What Does the Fox Say? “Stealing golf balls would not surprise me,” says Jay Butfiloski with the Department of Natural resources. “To young foxes, they could look like quail or turkey eggs.” Even when they figure out they’re not, he says, foxes born this past spring are like puppies, playful and likely to chase a ball.

Butfiloski says seeing foxes in the daylight can be startling since they’re typically nocturnal. But before winter, it’s not at all unusual, especially on a golf course. Red foxes, he says, like open areas and the young ones are just so curious. “They’re still a little immature,” he says. “Like teenagers, they don’t yet know how to Photo: Victoria Hansen

of Muni Golf

behave.” He says come winter, they’ll disappear until it’s night.

While they may be cute, especially when they play, Butfiloski reminds people red foxes are wild animals, best viewed from afar.

They’re relatively small, with adults weighing between 10 to 12 pounds. They’re not a threat to humans unless provoked or protecting their young. He adds people should never try to pet or feed them and should try to discourage them from getting too close and becoming troublesome foxes that wind up trapped or killed.

Wild about Wildlife Back at the pro shop, Shawn Cochran is closing up. He moved to Charleston from Austin, Texas this spring and says he scouted “The Muni” as a place to work. “Anyone who plays here walks away with that kind of ‘wow, that is wild’ and you’re ten minutes from downtown,” he says.

Cochran says he was attracted to the course’s challenge and rustic feel, the oaks, the Spanish moss and the wildlife. He just didn’t know “how wild” until he got here. “I’d never seen a fox on a golf course before and everyone just called them “The Muni foxes” and said they’re always out late, showing off.”

He says some days they disappear, like when his girlfriend was in town for a recent visit and he wanted to do a little showing off.

Cochran peeks out the window after making a final sale. “They’re nice late in the day, watching them play. They’re definitely better than a gator (which also roam The Muni), cuter anyway.”

FUN FACTS ABOUT FOXES

Photo: Victoria Hansen

(Courtesy: www.earthrangers.com) • A group of foxes is called a skulk or leash.

• Foxes have whiskers on their legs and face, which help them to navigate.

• Grey foxes can retract their claws like cats do.

• A male is called a 'dog fox' while a female is called a 'vixen' • Foxes’ pupils are vertical, similar to a cat, helping them to see well at night • Foxes have excellent hearing and can reportedly hear a watch ticking 40-yards away.

Golfers playing at Charleston Muni are sometimes followed by red, furry caddies as seen here.

Photo: Dan Krosse

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TIME TO PLAY!

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Kids are some of the best animal advocates so we’ve devoted this space to young pet lovers.

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