We believe that our dogs are our best friends, and that’s why we need a reliable source to turn to for information on all things “dog” in our community. Our mission is to be the Carolinas’ number one resource for dog owners regarding regional dog-centric and dog-welcoming events, health & wellness information, dog training, trends, and local news. We also strive to be a mouthpiece to the public for various Lowcountrybased pet non-profits, and we promote pet adoption and other responsible pet care practices.
Founded in Charleston, South Carolina in 2005 as a print magazine. From 2015 through 2019, we went digital. in 2020, print returned and we have grown to become “The Carolinas’ Source for All Things Dog,” with print distribution throughout the Carolinas, and digital readers worldwide.
Every issue of Lowcountry Dog Magazine is dedicated to Peanut, our Chief Canine Officer from 2005 to 2023, and Alyssa Helms, our Media Manager from 2020 to 2024.
Publisher Brian Foster brian@lowcountrydog.com
Chief Canine Officer
Lovey social@lowcountrydog.com
Media Assistant
Samantha Stinner media@lowcountrydog.com
Canine Correspondent
Tula
Staff Writers
Chelsea Salerno
Jeanne Taylor
Photographers
Clark & Chateau
Jeanne Taylor Photography
Creative Consultant
Laura Olsen
Contributing Writers
Natalie Garber
Krystle Pellicone
For advertising and media inquiries please email contact@lowcountrydog.com
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Lovey’s Lowcountry Livin’: Ranking the Best Refreshing Treats
Sit, Stay, Behave... Dog Walking Etiquette
HEALTH & WELLNESS: What’s in your Pet’s Food Dish?
FEATURE STORY: Two Lowcountry Shelters Unite in One Mission
LOCAL DOG EVENTS
IN THE NEWS
BEHIND THE KENNEL DOOR A Look inside Dorchester Paws
GO GREEN: Adopt A Recycled Dog!
Cover Photo & Above Photo by Clark & Chateau
Rating the Best Refreshing Treats
We are living in a real heat wave in the Lowcountry right now. Temperatures have been in the upper 90s with heat index into the 110s. It is not exactly the time to spend outside. One thing that helps is a nice cold refreshing treat! This issue I am going to rank my favorite icy treats!
NUMBER 5
STARBUCKS PUPPICHINO
Starbucks might be the OG when it comes to thsi creamy treat, but the long lines and simplicity put it at number 5.
NUMBER 4
ICE CUBES
This one might be super simple, but every day my dad has his big cup of drinky drink and, I ask for some ice cubes out of it and he cannot resist my puppy dog eyes.
NUMBER
3
HOMEMADE PUP CUP
This is definately not an everyday treat, but when I have been a good girl (which let’s face it, is always) my dad makes me a homemade puppichino with some of my favorite treats on top. This could have been number one, but this girl is a flavanista and likes a little flavor with my treats, so this ranks at number three!
Lovey's lowcountry livin’
NUMBER
2
DOGGIE ICE CREAM
Dogsters Doggie Ice Cream is where it is at! I get these maybe 2 x a week during the summer and my goto flavor is bacon and cheese.
I like to sit at my spot under the desk and lick it until it is gone! The flavor, the taste, the cooling sensation puts Dogsters at number 2!
NUMBER
1
PELICAN’S SNOBALL ok, now we are talking. Combine to coldness of number four, with the wonderful flavor of peanut butter and add the treat on top like number 3, what do you got? A Pelican’s SnoBall Pup Cup! I wish this was every day but sadly it happens only 2x a month, but so worth the wait. I also have a little trick with these. I start on the proch and eat the top and treat and once I get that done, I carefully pick up the cup and carry inside to my spot under the desk to enjoy the rest until completion. Hey Pelican’s, looking for a sponsorship or brand ambassador? ■
Dog Walking Etiquette: A Guide for Every Pet Parent
WRITTEN BY NATALIE GARBER
A Dog’s Best Friend
Whether you’re heading out for your very first walk with your dog or you’re a seasoned walker, there are a few important things to keep in mind to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience—for both you and your pup.
Leashes and Control
Before stepping out the door, consider the type of leash you’re using. My personal recommendation is a standard fixed-length leash, which offers better control during walks. Retractable leashes may seem convenient, but they can make it difficult to manage your dog and may even cause injuries if not used properly. The last thing you want is to be fumbling with a leash when another person, cyclist, or dog approaches.
Know Your Dog
Understanding your dog’s behavior is key. How does your dog react when encountering other people or dogs? Training can make a huge difference—not only does it strengthen your bond, but it also provides the tools needed to manage your dog in public spaces.
If your dog tends to be leash-reactive or is uncomfortable around other dogs or people, maintain a safe distance. It’s helpful to have solid obedience cues like “sit/stay” or “down/ stay” when passing distractions such as cyclists, wildlife, or loud vehicles.
Also, consider the time of day—if it’s dark, reflective gear for both you and your dog can greatly increase visibility and safety.
Clean Up After Your Dog
One of the most important parts of dog walking etiquette: Always clean up after your pet. Carry waste bags and dispose of them properly. Not only is it respectful, but it also prevents the spread of disease to other dogs and keeps public spaces clean.
Also, be mindful of private property—avoid letting your dog wander into yards, flowerbeds, or gardens. Stick to sidewalks and designated walking areas.
Know Your Dog’s Limits
Different breeds have different needs. For example, an Australian Shepherd is likely to need longer, more frequent walks than an English Bulldog. Age and overall health also play a role—senior dogs may benefit from the mental stimulation of walks, but they likely require shorter and less intense outings.
Pay attention to your dog’s physical cues, and don’t overexert them. Especially in hot or cold weather, be mindful of how your dog’s breed, age, and health affect their ability to tolerate the elements.
Gear Up Wisely
The type of harness or collar you choose should be appropriate for your dog’s breed and behavior. For example:
Flat collars may not be suitable for dogs like pugs, whose anatomy makes them more prone to respiratory issues.
No-pull harnesses (like the Easy Walk) or head halters (like the Halti) can help with dogs that pull on the leash.
Training collars (such as prong or e-collars) should only be used if your dog has been properly acclimated and under the guidance of a professional.
P e t O b e d i e n c e
S e r v i c e D o g s
S T R O N G M I N D K 9
P r o f e s s i o n a l D o g T r a i n i n g
( 8 4 3 ) 4 0 5 - 3 2 0 6
s t r o n g m i n d k 9 @ g m a i l c o m
S t r e n g t h e n i n g t h e m i n d b e t w e e n h u m a n a n d d o g
w w w s t r o n g m i n d k 9 c o m
Always bring waste bags (they’re inexpensive and easy to find online) and, for longer walks, consider a collapsible water bowl and fresh water.
Top 5 Dos and Don’ts of Dog Walking
Do:
• Invest time in training to improve control and communication.
• Let your dog sniff—this is how they experience the world!
• Prioritize safety—for you, your dog, and others.
• Always clean up after your dog.
• Consider temperature, time of day, and your dog’s physical condition before setting out.
Don’t:
• Expect everyone else to follow good dog-walking etiquette.
• Assume other dogs are friendly or that people want to interact with your dog.
• Walk during peak heat (especially on hot pavement— if you can’t touch it for 7 seconds, it’s too hot for paws).
• Use retractable leashes in crowded or high-traffic areas.
• Ignore signs of overheating—dogs pant to cool down, and excessive panting, drooling, or stumbling can be signs of heat stroke.
Weather Awareness
In extreme weather (hot or cold), adjust your walk times and routes accordingly. Morning and evening are typically best during summer. Brachycephalic breeds (short-nosed dogs), seniors, and overweight dogs are at higher risk of heat stroke. Use shaded, grassy areas instead of pavement whenever possible.
If you notice symptoms of heat exhaustion— excessive panting, drooling, or instability—this is a medical emergency. Seek veterinary attention immediately.
Final Thoughts
Dog walking should be a rewarding experience, offering exercise, enrichment, and bonding time. With the right preparation, awareness, and a bit of courtesy, you can make sure your walks are safe and enjoyable for everyone. ■
The Good, The Bad and The Ugly: What’s in your pet’s food dish?
WRITTEN & PHOTOS BY
JEANNE TAYLOR, Staff Writer
When we know better, we do better.
Imagine a time when pets were more utilitarian – farm dogs, herding and working dogs, flock guardians, front porch fixtures – and less spoiled-pooch-in-a-purse riding shotgun with its human to local breweries, store aisles, and restaurant patios. Dogs roamed, often landing on their owner’s doorstep at night with the hope of some table scraps falling their way, or whatever grains or leftovers might be offered to them.
We have come so far in our treatment of animals (in most cases). While the first commercial dog biscuit came on the scene in the mid-1800s, by the early 1900s in the time following the Industrial Revolution, there had been a change in the way that ‘kept animals’ were considered. They became true pets and companions. So, when kibble cropped up in 1956, there was a massive shift in thinking, thanks to clever marketing touting convenience and balanced nutrition. Pet owners became consumers. Kibble was promoted as the be-all-end-all product for pets, with its extended shelf life, balanced nutrient panel, and easy storage. Now it’s a multi-billion-dollar industry and continuing to grow each year.
Well, if you have ever watched the documentary ‘Pet Fooled,’ you might feel differently about most kibble brands. For many years now, holistic, and even integrative veterinary providers have sought to better inform pet parents about feeding and nutrition options, bringing to light some terrible practices that exist in the commercial pet food industry. You can look at YouTube or any number of online resources to learn more about how kibble is made and the effects the process and the ingredients may have on your pet’s health. But that isn’t the purpose of this article.
Recognizing that consumers lean into the convenience and economic affordability of kibble, we aim here to offer ideas on ways to further incorporate foods that are good for our dogs - and steer you from those that are not. As for kibble, we encourage pet owners to talk with well-informed pet industry professionals to learn about the varied brands, their recall histories, and see what may be the best fit for their pets’ nutritional needs – and the human’s wallet.
There are plenty of other feeding options for our pets beyond kibble too – RAW, gently cooked, freeze dried – the list goes on and it can be overwhelming. But one thing most can agree on is that adding fruits and vegetables to your pet’s diet can have long-term positive impacts. Plus, you’ll rise to the rank of the preferred pet parent every time you place that crunchy carrot or cold, tasty blueberry in their bowl! ■
Good/Safe
Apples (remove core and seeds first)
Bananas (as a treat, not a meal staple)
Blueberries
Cantaloupe
Cranberries
Cucumbers
Mangoes (remove the pit first)
Oranges (peel first)
Peaches (remove the pit)
Pears (remove the pit and seeds)
Pineapple (remove crown and prickly skin)
Raspberries (in moderation)
Tomatoes (in moderation and from the ripe flesh only, never the plant)
Watermelon (remove rind and seeds)
Asparagus (no real benefit, but no harm)
Beets (in moderation)
Bell Peppers
Butternut Squash
Broccoli (in moderation)
Brussel sprouts
Cabbage
Carrots
Cauliflower
Celery
Eggplant (in moderation and no leaves or stem)
Green beans
Lettuce
Okra (in moderation)
Peas
Potatoes (in moderation)
Pumpkin
Spinach (in moderation)
Sweet Potatoes
Zucchini
Anchovies (in water)
Sardines (in water)
And more!
NOT Good/Avoid
Alcohol
Avocados (fresh) - although as an added ingredient, avocado offers benefits
Bread dough (raw)
Caffeine
Cherries (fresh) – just skip them and opt for treats that may include cherries as an ingredient
Chocolate
Cooked Bones
Grapes
Macadamia Nuts
Nutmeg
Raisins
Wild Mushrooms
Onions
Xylitol
And more!
Fruits and vegetables should be fresh or frozen, not seasoned, salted or pickled, and cut into appropriately-size pieces to avoid choking.
Many of the noted items can be used in moderation, and with the approval of your veterinarian, especially if your dog has any health concerns or sensitivities.
This article is not intended to be viewed as medical or veterinary advice, or specific to any one pet or condition. Please consult with your veterinarian before making changes to your pet’s diet.
This list is not fully inclusive. Please research any possible health implications prior to adding new items to your pet’s diet.
STRONGER TOGETHER: Two Lowcountry Shelters United in One Mission
WRITTEN & PHOTOS
BY JEANNE TAYLOR Staff Writer
Unless you have been hiding under a rock, you probably know that Charleston Animal Society recently assumed operational management of Berkeley Animal Center. I have worked closely with both shelters over the years and am optimistic about the future of what is now known as the Charleston Animal Society Berkeley Campus. July 1, 2025, marked a new day for the animals of Berkeley County, and as a Berkeley County resident, I am hopeful and excited for what this means.
The new shelter located at 131 Central Berkeley Drive in Moncks Corner opened in the summer of 2021. The land offered a major physical improvement over the previous shelter’s property, and the facility itself was new and fresh, although, unfortunately, it did not enhance the capacity over the previous shelter. But the intakes still kept coming! As Berkeley County has exploded with an estimated 40,000+ new residents since the 2021 shelter was erected, not surprisingly, so have the intake numbers of the single shelter that serves a county as large as the state of Rhode Island. Interestingly, Rhode Island actually has more than 20 animal shelters, according to Best Friends.org. Currently, Berkeley County ranks among the top five fastest-growing counties in the state and is purported to fall within the top 10 for growth nationally.
Why has it been such a challenge?
While Charleston Animal Society for years supported Berkeley Animal Center in a number of ways, and staff from No Kill South Carolina also
worked closely with the shelter’s leadership in recent years to audit processes and try to effect positive change, resources, both human capital and financial, were simply not sufficient for the shelter to succeed. But now that’s changed.
As CAS continues to transition shelter operations at the Berkeley campus to align with its proven policies and processes, staff, volunteers, and the community will begin to see marked improvements. Will it take time? Of course. No undertaking of this magnitude happens in a blink. But the blending of operations will reduce duplicated efforts and deploying proven best practices at the Berkeley campus will create additional efficiencies as well. Further, as a 501c3, CAS can fundraise in ways that BAC, as a municipal shelter, never could.
Representatives of the Friends of Berkeley Animal Center, a local nonprofit that has supported the Berkeley shelter since 2019, are also looking forward to this union and the positive changes to come. Board President Olivia Whitehurst relayed, “We are hoping to be able to join forces to
continue the support that we have always given to the Berkeley shelter.”
One of those activities will be the group’s upcoming sixth annual Rescue Me event to be held at Cypress Gardens on September 27, so save the date! This is a large crowd event with multiple rescues on-site working to have their animals seen, adored, and adopted. But it’s more than that; it’s also a community event for families with vendors, food trucks and entertainment too.
Berkeley County Councilwoman Amy Stern was instrumental during the contract process. As a former animal cruelty investigator herself, Councilwoman Stern is very connected to the animal welfare community and quickly realized the benefit in bringing these two organizations together. Stern notes, “I think it’s a fantastic opportunity for Berkeley County residents to have access to more spay and neuter resources as well as educational resources.” Councilwoman Stern was also the driving force within the county government to help bring to fruition a spay/neuter voucher program for Berkeley County residents, recognizing spay/ neuter is going to be the best way to alleviate the pet overpopulation crisis.
Boots on the ground legacy staff at the Berkeley campus will be crucial to the smooth transition, offering historical knowledge while working alongside CAS mentors and trainers to adapt to new processes and policies with an eye toward improved operational efficiency.
Volunteers will continue to be the lifeblood of the Berkeley campus, with their unwavering commitment to the shelter animals.
While the CAS Berkeley Campus had to restart the shelter’s large social media presence from scratch on July 1, it’s clear the online community is watching with the page gaining almost 2,000 followers thus far. CAS will employ the full force of its social media and marketing staff to ensure the Berkeley campus is in front of the community, to include media spots, events, and campaigns
to promote adoption, fostering, volunteering, spay/neuter, and all the other important cogs in an effective shelter system.
Once the ink was on the paper, the CAS transition team rolled up their sleeves and got to work. What no one could have predicted though was the impending seizure of 35 hounds from a cruelty case out of Goose Creek (Berkeley County) on July 2, just one day after assuming responsibility, adding to the burden of an already overtaxed shelter. This case made national news, with a joint effort between law enforcement, the Berkeley County animal cruelty investigator and CAS’s veterinary and other trained staff, with the removal of 35 hounds in varied health statuses, as well as the discovery of multiple dog skulls on the property. The hounds were living in deplorable conditions without access to clean water or food. What water containers were nearby were full of contaminants, while the dogs were confined to cramped conditions, surrounded by their own feces and urine-soaked structures. Some of the dogs were covered in ticks, while others were emaciated and showed evidence of untreated injuries. Sources say these hounds had been brought to South Carolina from Tennessee without the required health certificates or legally required rabies vaccines.
Interestingly, or perhaps infuriatingly, this same offender, Loney Garrett, was arrested in 2013 for animal cruelty, at the same location, where 200 dogs were found buried on his two-acre property. In 2015, Garrett was initially charged with 43 counts of animal cruelty. He was convicted and sentenced to two years in prison and five years of probation for only 10 of those charges. Obviously, this mild reprimand was not a sufficient consequence to prevent a recurrence. The system failed these animals, and the community needs to rally to ensure it doesn’t happen again - not by the hands of this offender, or any other. It should be noted Garrett’s son, Loney Garrett, Jr., is also being charged with one count of ill-treatment of animals.
The shelter team has been caring for these nowgrateful hounds, assessing their conditions, ensuring they reach a healthy weight, and that they receive the additional vet care they had been lacking under Garrett’s ownership.
On July 18, Charleston Animal Society was
awarded custody of all 35 dogs. And now the task is underway to place the dogs in foster homes. The Berkeley campus staff members are asking for the community’s help by fostering these hounds until they are adoption-ready. Unfortunately, history has shown shelter intakes won’t slow down simply because there is “no room at the inn.” Foster homes will be key to the ideal outcome for these 35 souls, which will ultimately be finding them loving forever homes. If you believe you may be able to help in some way, please contact the shelter.
With the blending of these two large animal sheltering systems, one thing is clear: the community’s support will be vital to the ongoing efforts on behalf of the animals in Berkeley County. With a large rural geo-area in the county too, it must be said: if you see something, say something! These animals did not have to endure such a terrible existence until they were rescued. And we can work together to ensure no animal experiences such a miserable life again. Stronger together. ■
Photos are from Charleston Animal Society Berkeley Campus Facebook page.
Photography by Clark & Chateau Photography
Written by Brian Foster
Winnie’s Pool Party: A Love
Island-Inspired Paw-ty
In the sizzling summer of 2025, the Lowcountry turned up the heat—and we’re not just talking about the weather. The Lowcountry Dog Magazine Model Contest crowned its newest queen: Winnie, a seven-month-old Golden Retriever with sunkissed fur, a heart of gold, and a serious passion for poolside lounging.
And let’s just say, this girl knew how to celebrate.
To toast her win in true Love Island style, Winnie threw the paw-ty of the season at her backyard oasis—complete with tropical tunes, floaties, grilled hot dogs (of course), and a guest list tighter than a velvet rope at an exclusive beach club.
Top of that guest list? Prince, the dashing Frenchton who took second place in the contest. With his signature bowtie collar and cheeky grin, Prince rolled up with major cool boy energy and a “Congrats, Queen.” Sparks weren’t just flying— they were splashing.
“Babe, the vibes are immaculate,” Winnie barked as Prince padded up to the pool deck.
“Honestly, couldn’t have said it better myself,” Prince woofed back, already eyeing the grill like it owed him money.
Winnie greeted her guests in her signature pink sunglasses and matching visor—because fashion never takes a day off. From the moment the first pup-pawtini was served, the vibe was sunsetchic meets tail-wagging chaos.
But the real moment came when Winnie took to the pool—Love Island villa style.
Winnie floated like the queen she is on her floatie, paws dangling just above the water. Prince, ever the gentleman, watched from the lounge chair.
“Do you think we should couple up for the next
contest?” Prince teased, nose-bumping her in a slow-motion splash that had everyone howling.
“I mean, look at us,” Winnie laughed. “Golden girl meets short king? We’d break the internet.”
The hot tub chill session was the stuff of romcom finales.
“So, what’s next for the Lowcountry’s top dog?”
Winnie gave a playful woof. “More photoshoots. More pool days. Maybe a line of swimwear— Winnie’s Wavewear. You in?”
Prince wagged. “You had me at floatie.”
As the stars sparkled overhead and the firepit crackled one last time, Winnie looked around as she wagged her tail, heart full and fur damp. This wasn’t just a win for her—it was a win for every water-loving, fun-chasing, Love Island–watching pup with a dream.
And honestly? She is just getting started.
Check out Winnie and Prince in the upcoming LAP OF LUXURY: The 2026 Lowcountry Dog Calendar! pre-order at lowcountrydog.com/calendar ■
Follow Winnie and Prince on Instagram @winniegaminde @prince_the_frenchton
Local Dog Events
8/2/25 Laps of Love
Fundraiser for Hallie Hill Animal Sanctuary 7:30 am
8/6/25 Dogust Birthday Bash
Pet Supplies Plus in Summerville 12pm to 3pm
8/12/25 DOG DAY AT THE JOE & ADOPTION EVENT FOR DORCHESTER PAWS
Riverdogs Stadium 7:05pm
8/14/25 Affordable Vaccine Clinic
Hallie Hill Animal Sanctuary 10 am to 2 pm
8/17/25 Doggie Days of Summer
Magnolia Plantation 10 am to 2 pm
8/26/25 DOG DAY AT THE JOE
Riverdogs Stadium 7:05pm
9/27/25 RESCUE ME
Cypress Gardens 9 am to 4 pm
THE BIG BARK Celebrating 20 YEARS OF LOWCOUNTRY DOG CELEBRATION
Saturday, Oct 4th
Firefly Distillery 12 to 5 pm
11/02/2025
DIA DE LOS PERROS
Tattooed Moose Johns Island 3 to 6 pm
04/11/2026
WOOFSTOCK: A LOWCOUNTRY DOG MUSIC FESTIVAL
Check out our Events page for even more local events and check for date changes. www.lowcountrydog.com/events
In The News
Rescued dog covered in scars still ‘adores people.’ She waits for a new home
A dog covered in scars still “adores people” — and she waits for a fresh start. “Even though she looks tough and strong she is just a big softie,” Bridget Murphy, marketing content manager for a North Carolina animal shelter, told McClatchy News via email. “We’re trying to help her find a home. Our staff is already in love with her.”
5 dogs rescued from ‘terrible conditions;’ owner faces charges
Five dogs were saved after allegedly being found living in “terrible conditions” at a home in Hollywood last month, according to a release from Charleston Animal Society.
With the help of the Charleston County Sheriff’s Office, the dogs were taken to the Charleston Animal Society for treatment, while their previous owner, Harry Brown Jr., 47, was charged with five counts of ill treatment of animals, according to the sheriff’s office.
Charleston
Co. officials to seek updated
animal welfare ordinances
Charleston County officials say they are working to review and strengthen ordinances related to animal well-being after county deputies responded to a recent report about several dogs on a Johns Island property.
During a May 15 animal welfare check, deputies found approximately 15 kennels housing 25 dogs of various breeds and sizes.
Click images above to read the full story. For more top stories, visit www.lowcountrydog.com/top-stories
Behind The Kennel Door:
A Look Inside Dorchester Paws
WRITTEN BY KRYSTLE PELLICONE
Partnership Development Coordinator Dorchester Paws
Behind the kennel doors, beyond the barking and bustle, are stories of survival, second chances, and the quiet heroes who make them possible.
At Dorchester Paws, the only open-admission, no-kill animal shelter in Dorchester County, South Carolina, every day brings a new adventure — sometimes messy, often unpredictable, but always filled with heart. While many people picture an animal shelter as rows of barking dogs and sad eyes, the reality is so much more inspiring, and yes, sometimes even downright hilarious.
Imagine a dog - we’ll call him Biscuit - a scrappy little terrier with fur so matted you aren’t entirely sure which end is which. His eyes are barely visible, his teeth look like a haunted corn maze, and he is terrified of just about everything.
But fast-forward a few weeks, and Biscuit has undergone a full glow-up thanks to the medical team and volunteers. Once he got his first bath (and his second, and third — he really needed them), he slowly started to trust again. Then came the magic moment: a family walked in just “to look” and walked out an hour later with Biscuit in their arms. That’s the kind of transformation we see every week.
Shelter animals aren’t “damaged.” They’re just waiting for someone to see past the scars and sniffles to the cuddly, loyal companions underneath. They may have been lost, abandoned, or neglected — but with care, patience, and a little peanut butter, they bounce back with a resilience that’s nothing short of miraculous.
While many animals arrive in relatively good shape, others arrive in desperate need of medical attention, some with broken bones, internal injuries, and a fear of humans that runs deep. But the staff at Dorchester Paws refuses to give up on any of them.
Thanks to emergency medical care, a foster family with endless patience, and daily encouragement (plus treats, of course), many animals not only survive, but also thrive.
These kinds of rescues aren’t rare at Dorchester Paws. The shelter provides medical care for
animals with injuries, illnesses, and chronic conditions, many of whom would otherwise be considered “unadoptable.” Every bandage wrapped and every tail that starts wagging again is a reminder: healing happens here.
Of course, none of this would be possible without the humans behind the kennels. The staff and volunteers of Dorchester Paws are the beating heart of the organization — scooping, scrubbing, walking, training, cuddling, crying, and celebrating.
There’s the morning shift team who shows up at sunrise — rain or shine — to feed and clean and check temperatures. There are volunteers who come after work to walk dogs or help with laundry (mountains of it!). There are foster parents who open their homes to bottle-feed kittens or comfort shy seniors recovering from surgery.
It’s not always glamorous — sometimes it’s muddy paw prints, heartbreak, and hard goodbyes. But the rewards? Immeasurable.
Just ask Debbie, a newbie volunteer who says, “Being present to witness my first adoption was the best part of my week. And seeing them walk away to go home with their new family member brought tears to my eyes.”
When visitors come to adopt, they often see the end of the journey — a clean kennel, a friendly dog, a well-adjusted cat rubbing at their ankles. What they don’t always see is everything that came before: the vet visits, the behavior evaluations, the sleepless nights spent caring for a sick pup, or the hours of socialization it took to earn a wag or purr.
Shelters like Dorchester Paws aren’t just holding areas; they’re lifelines. They’re rehab centers, training hubs, and temporary homes filled with love, effort, and the hope of a brighter future. And yet, myths still persist, like the idea that shelter animals are “broken” or “second rate.” In truth, they are some of the most loyal, loving pets you could ever meet.
So, what can you do?
Well, first: adopt, don’t shop. Every animal adopted from Dorchester Paws opens space for another life to be saved. You’re not just getting a pet, you’re becoming part of a rescue story.
Can’t adopt? Volunteer. Walk a dog, snuggle a cat, help at an event, or lend your skills to marketing, fundraising, or photography. There’s something for everyone and every hour makes a difference.
Not local or low on time? Donate. Whether it’s $10 or $100, your gift helps cover medical care, food, bedding, and enrichment toys that make shelter life more bearable and often more fun. But donations aren’t just about dollars. Dorchester Paws is always in need of physical items that help keep the animals comfortable, cared for, and happy during their stay. Think: unopened bags of pet food, soft beds, cozy blankets, collars, leashes, cleaning supplies, and toys. Even gently used towels and sheets can go a long way in creating a warmer, more inviting environment for the animals who may be experiencing comfort for the first time.
Better yet? Become a foster. For animals who need a break from the shelter or a quiet place to recover, fosters are superheroes without capes (though we’d gladly give them one!). Dorchester Paws survives and thrives because of the incredible community around it. Every tail wag, every purr, every “gotcha day” photo is powered by people who believe that animals deserve love, healing, and a second chance. So next time you see a fundraiser, a donation jar, or an adoption event, know this: your support matters. It’s the difference between “just surviving” and finally going home. Because behind the kennel doors, there’s more than noise. There’s hope, heart, and the start of something beautiful. ■
