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.
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
Krystle Pellicone
Katie Jones
Preston Hayden
Kirstyn Cobb
Lovey’s Lowcountry Livin’: The Ghost of Poogan’s Porch
Sit, Stay, Behave... From Shelter to Sofa
HEALTH & WELLNESS: Senior Dog Wellness
FEATURE STORY: Dorchester Paws Moves Forward
of
For advertising and media inquiries please email contact@lowcountrydog.com
Kylo & Ren
Cover Photo & Above Photo by Jeanne Taylor Photography
The Ghost of Poogan’s Porch
Charleston feels different at night. The air is heavy with moss, lanterns glow soft and strange, and the cobblestones seem to whisper old stories. I trot beside my human down Queen Street. We stop in front of a restaurant with a wide porch. The sign reads: Poogan’s Porch.
Among Charleston’s dogs, I’ve heard the name. Not for the food, but for the ghost dog who never left. My human ties me to the railing and goes inside. I sniff the porch floorboards—old wood, layered with time. Suddenly the air cools. My fur prickles.
Tap. Tap. Tap.
Paws. Not mine. I turn and see him.
A scruffy terrier, gray-white, his body shimmering like smoke. His eyes glow, and though his mouth doesn’t move, I hear his voice.
“Welcome, Lovey.”
“You’re Poogan,” I think.
He nods. “This was my porch. I still keep watch.” Something shifts in the shadows. They stretch too long across the steps. A woman’s faint sob drifts from the upstairs windows. My ears flatten.
“Who is that?” I ask.
“She wanders too,” Poogan answers. “A woman tied to this house. On stormy nights, she moves through the halls. The living rarely notice. But dogs… always do.”
A blurred figure leans near the railing. No scent, no steps, only sorrow pressing down like fog. My tail tucks. “Does she hurt you?” I whisper.
“Not cruel,” Poogan says softly, “only lost. But sadness weighs heavy. It keeps us here.”
Lovey's lowcountry livin’
His voice fades, like tidewater retreating. “I should rest, Lovey. But I cannot leave while she wanders.”
The woman’s shadow stretches closer. Cold sinks into my fur. My leash rattles as I stumble back.
“Go!” Poogan barks suddenly, sharp as thunder. “The living do not belong here.”
My human bursts through the restaurant door, laughing, unaware of the chill or the ghostly figures on the porch. She unties me and we step off the steps quickly.
I glance back.
Poogan sits at the top, glowing faintly. Behind him, the woman’s shadow drifts into the doorway like smoke. He doesn’t follow. He only watches.
And I understand. He isn’t just haunting—he’s guarding. Protecting this porch, this city, from the sorrow bound inside its walls.
As we disappear down the cobblestones, I wag my tail once for him. For the dog who never left.
And I know his ghostly paws still pace the boards of Queen Street, keeping watch forever. ■
From Shelter to Sofa: Setting Up Your Home for a New Dog
WRITTEN BY KRYSTLE PELLICONE
Contributing
Writer
Welcoming a new dog home is thrilling, heartwarming—and yes, a little chaotic. Think of it as a mix of baby-proofing and interior design— dog edition. With a little preparation, you can ensure your furry friend feels safe, loved, and ready to settle in. Plus, you might save your shoes, cords, and coffee mugs from becoming chew toys.
Before you bring your new pup inside, take a quick tour of your home from a dog’s-eye view. Cords? Tucked away. Shoes? Out of reach. Trash cans? Secured. Any breakables should be stored safely—trust us, your coffee mugs are not chew toys, no matter how tempting they look. Think of it as creating a safe playground for your new four-legged roommate.
Dogs love having a dedicated space that’s all their own. Set up a cozy corner with a comfortable bed, a water bowl, and a few toys to keep them occupied. Bonus points if you add a blanket that smells like you—this will help your new friend feel safe and more at home. A designated area also helps with training and gives them a place to relax when visitors arrive or chaos ensues.
Stock up on treats, chews, and your patience. There will be accidents, tail wags, and maybe a chewed sock or two. Positive reinforcement goes a long way: reward good behavior, encourage calm moments, and don’t stress over little mishaps. Your pup is learning the rules of their new kingdom, and you’re learning how to be the best pack leader possible.
Even with preparation, surprises happen. Puddles on the carpet, zoomies at 3 a.m., or furniture rearranged by wagging tails—welcome to dog ownership! Embrace the chaos, because the love and loyalty your new companion brings will far outweigh any temporary mess. Plus, these moments make for the best stories later. Before long, you’ll notice who really rules the roost. Your sofa? Claimed. Your favorite pillow? Maybe, too. But that’s okay—because the bond you build in those first days will last a lifetime. With a little prep, patience, and plenty of cuddles, your dog will go from shelter to sofa, stealing your heart and a permanent spot in your home.
Pro Tips for a Smooth Transition:
• Keep a consistent feeding and potty schedule
• Introduce one room at a time to prevent overwhelm
• Rotate toys to keep your pup entertained
• Make vet and grooming appointments early for routine check-ins
Bottom Line:
Bringing home a new dog is an adventure filled with laughter, love, and maybe a little pandemonium! With the right preparation though, your home will become a safe haven, allowing your pup to settle in quickly, and together you’ll start building a lifelong friendship. And yes… your sofa may never be the same, 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. ■
Senior Dog
Wellness: Simple Habits to Keep Older Pups
WRITTEN BY
KATIE JONES
Contributing Writer
As our beloved dogs grow older, their needs begin to shift. Senior dog wellness is about more than just extending a pet’s lifespan; it’s about improving their quality of life in meaningful ways.
From mobility support to cognitive care, implementing small, daily habits can make a major difference in how well your older dog ages. Here’s how to make those golden years shine.
Understanding the Signs of Aging in Dogs
The first step in caring for senior dogs is knowing what to look for. Signs of aging in dogs can vary widely, but some of the most common include:
• Decreased activity or lethargy
• Cloudy eyes or vision issues
• Stiffness, especially after rest
• Difficulty with stairs or jumping
• Increased anxiety or confusion
• Changes in appetite or digestion
Many of these symptoms are subtle at first, so it’s critical to monitor behavioral and physical changes and adjust the care plan accordingly.
According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), most dogs are considered seniors at around age 7, though this can vary by
breed and size. Larger breeds tend to age more quickly, making early wellness support even more crucial.
Prioritize Nutrition for Senior Dogs
As dogs age, their metabolism slows, and their nutritional needs change. A high-quality diet that supports joint health, cognitive function, and digestive balance is essential. If using kibble or a commercially prepared fresh food, look for formulas that include:
• Omega-3 fatty acids (for joint and brain support)
According to a study published in The Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, dogs fed a diet enriched with antioxidants and mitochondrial cofactors showed improved cognitive
performance compared to a control group. This study supports the idea that targeted nutrition can slow age-related decline in dogs.
Incorporate Senior Dog Supplements
Sometimes, even the best diet needs a boost. That’s where targeted supplements come in. Dog supplements for seniors can support:
• Joint mobility (glucosamine, chondroitin, MSM)
• Cognitive clarity (DHA, SAMe, antioxidants)
• Immune function (beta-glucans, vitamins A, C, and E)
• Skin and coat health (fish oil, biotin)
The National Animal Supplement Council (NASC) reports that nearly 50% of senior dogs benefit from mobility supplements. Supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin have been shown to reduce joint inflammation and improve movement. Always choose supplements formulated
specifically for senior dogs, and discuss them with your vet to ensure compatibility with any medications.
Maintain a Consistent Older Dog Care Routine
Consistency provides comfort. A stable daily routine can help reduce anxiety and cognitive decline in older pups. This includes:
• Feeding at the same times daily
• Gentle, regular exercise (like short walks or swimming)
• Bathroom breaks on a predictable schedule
• Quiet time in a familiar space
Research from the Journal of Applied Animal Welfare Science shows that dogs thrive on predictability, which can reduce stress and improve behavioral outcomes. A structured routine can help your dog feel secure and enable you to detect any changes in behavior or health promptly.
In-house state-of-the-art diagnostics
Minimally-invasive procedures
On-staff clinical pharmacist
Keep Their Minds Active: Canine Cognitive
Health
Mental stimulation is just as important as physical activity. Dogs are problem-solvers and social animals by nature. As they age, cognitive health can decline, but you can slow this process with enrichment strategies such as:
• Puzzle feeders
• Short training sessions (reviewing basic commands)
• New smells and environments during walks
• Toys that promote engagement
Researchers from the University of California, Irvine, found that mental stimulation combined with an antioxidant-rich diet delayed the progression of canine cognitive dysfunction. The takeaway: keeping the brain active is one of the best defenses against cognitive decline.
Support Their Movement: Dog Mobility Support
Mobility can be a challenge for senior dogs. Whether it’s arthritis, hip dysplasia, or just general stiffness, movement matters. To support their joints:
• Invest in orthopedic bedding
• Use ramps or stairs for sofas and cars
• Keep nails trimmed to avoid gait issues
• Add joint-supportive supplements such as glucosamine, chondroitin, or turmeric
Studies in the Veterinary Journal have demonstrated that regular, moderate exercise improves flexibility and reduces stiffness in aging dogs. Hydrotherapy is also an effective, lowimpact option for maintaining mobility.
Make Regular Vet Visits Non-Negotiable
Annual visits aren’t enough for older dogs. Schedule checkups at least twice a year. Early detection of issues such as kidney disease, thyroid problems, or dental disease can significantly
improve outcomes. Vets can also help you track weight changes, update vaccinations, and guide decisions on medications or supplements.
Blood work, urinalysis, and dental exams should be part of a routine senior wellness check. These diagnostic tools help catch silent conditions before they become serious.
Strengthen the Emotional Connection
Aging dogs might not chase balls like they used to, but that doesn’t mean they love you any less. Emotional care is just as vital. Simple ways to boost their mood and your bond include:
• Gentle petting and massage
• Quality time without distractions
• Talking to them in calm tones
• Creating a peaceful, stress-free environment
Massage has been shown to improve circulation, reduce anxiety, and increase trust, which are especially beneficial for senior pets.
And don’t forget to celebrate their lives. Pet portraits are a beautiful way to preserve memories of your loyal companion in their golden years. Whether it’s a regal watercolor or a playful cartoon style, it’s a lasting tribute to the love you share.
Final Thoughts
Senior dog wellness is about noticing the small shifts in behavior, adjusting to their changing needs, and finding joy in the quiet moments. With the right care, older pups can thrive well into their golden years.
Support their joints. Feed their minds. Fuel their bodies. Shower them with love. And most importantly, never underestimate the power of a gentle routine and a warm, familiar voice. Because growing older doesn’t mean growing apart. ■)n
Dorchester Paws’ Capital Campaign:
What’s New, Why It Matters, and Why Operations Still Need Your Support
WRITTEN
BY
PRESTON HAYDEN Director of Marketing & Development for Dorchester Paws
For several years, Dorchester Paws, the only open-admission shelter in Dorchester County, has pushed to replace its flood-prone, 53-year old facility. On August 27th, Dorchester Paws cleared a major hurdle in that years-long push toward their new modern facility. During a press conference, plans were announced laying out milestone campaign dates over the next year that would lead to the new home for Dorchester Paws opening in the Spring of 2027.
Along with the expected timeline, the organization released new renderings for the new building and announced gifts from the county and major donors. These developments move the campaign from aspiration to action, but they also create an urgent stewardship challenge: donors and the public must keep supporting day-to-day shelter operations while finishing the capital fundraising needed to build and open the new facility.
What We Know
• Dorchester Paws confirmed the purchase and full ownership of 6.8 acres of land at the corner of Central Avenue and Highway 17A in Summerville for the future shelter site, a crucial, tangible step that converts fundraising momentum into a real project.
• The new shelter plan is being presented as a roughly $12 million project that will include nearly 300 spots for cats and dogs, larger kennels that meet national care
standards, play yards, walking trails, a lowcost spay and neuter clinic to reduce local pet overpopulation, and a community room allowing for education programs and special events.
• The organization has pledged transparency, detailing a road map that includes clearing and preparatory work in mid/late 2025, a planned groundbreaking in February 2026, and an opening date near January 2027 — a remarkably accelerated schedule given the project’s complexity.
• The current shelter faces capacity and climate vulnerabilities — documented overcrowding (with current intake far exceeding design capacity) and repeated flood closures in 2025 that forced temporary evacuation and interrupted services, all strengthening the operational case for replacement.
What This New Shelter Means For The Community
A new, well-designed shelter changes outcomes on three interlocking levels: animal welfare, public health and services, and community resilience.
The current facility’s overcrowding and infrastructure limits subject animals to potential longer waits for medical and behavioral care, while constraining staff capacity to perform spay/ neuter procedures and life-saving surgeries. The new shelter’s increased capacity (nearly 300 animals), larger kennels that meet national standards, and expanded medical/behavioral treatment suites will allow more timely care, shorter lengths of stay, and higher quality fosterto-adoption transitions. Better housing and medical capacity also mean Dorchester Paws can take more animals in from crisis situations and reduce the “push” of animals to other overburdened agencies.
As a service to the public, the proposed onsite low-cost spay and neuter clinic addresses the root cause of overcrowding: pet overpopulation.
Accessible, affordable sterilization services reduce shelter intake by preventing unwanted litters, lower the community burden of stray and feral animals, and reduce long-term costs for the county and local providers. In short, the clinic converts a shelter from a largely reactive facility into a proactive public-health resource. Lastly, the existing shelter’s vulnerability to flooding, which has forced multiple closures and emergency relocations over the years, is a clear community risk. A new facility on safer ground, with resilient construction and modern utilities, reduces the likelihood that an environmental event will interrupt services or force the displacement of animals. It also offers a public face for humane education programs, volunteer engagement, and community partnerships that foster stronger local support for animal welfare.
The Financial Picture: A Long Road Remains
To date, Dorchester Paws has raised over $2.5 million, including a $1 million dollar commitment from the county. Along with announced major pledges from Bill and Carolyn Holland, commitments provide leverage,
validate the project to other donors, and enable the organization to move into permitting and procurement stages. But the published $12 million budget means Dorchester Paws still faces a sizable fundraising gap and will need sustained capital giving to complete construction, furnish medical and operational spaces, and establish appropriate reserves for startup costs (staffing, equipment, transitional expenses).
It is important to also note that capital dollars and operating dollars are not interchangeable. Donors may feel tempted to shift giving toward a visible building project and pause regular operational gifts; yet running an expanded facility — and keeping the current shelter open and safe until the new one is ready — requires steady operational revenue. There are always “hidden” startup costs when moving to a new building (increased utilities, staffing ramp-up, medical equipment procurement), and those must be budgeted alongside construction. That’s why campaign leadership repeatedly stresses the plea to continue supporting day-to-day operations even as the community rallies behind the capital campaign.
How To Support
If you’re considering how to support Dorchester Paws right now, here are practical, high-impact ways to engage:
• Continue or start recurring operational gifts: monthly donations are gold for shelter budgeting and cover food, medicine, and staff costs.
• Contribute to restricted capital funds if you want to accelerate construction; consider multi-year pledges or matching gifts targeted at specific project elements (i.e. clinic equipment, surgical suites).
• Support special matching campaigns: grassroots campaigns like the “Home for the Holidays” drive have leveraged matching donors in the past; participating in those multiplies your gift.
• Volunteer and foster: fostering frees kennel space and reduces pressure on operations while the build is underway; volunteers help keep programs running smoothly.
• Spread awareness: amplify official updates, attend public events, and talk to local businesses about sponsorship and in-kind donations (construction materials, medical supplies, landscaping).
Combining operational monthly support with targeted capital gifts creates a healthy fundraising ecosystem and avoids the “all eggs in one basket” problem that can starve daily services while a building is being completed.
Potential Challenges And What To Expect
No capital campaign moves forward without execution risk. Key challenges Dorchester Paws will need to manage include:
• Construction cost inflation and supplychain disruptions that could increase the $12M budget; contingency planning and conservative cost estimates are vital.
• Fundraising fatigue, especially considering multi-year campaigns can slow if donors
shift attention. The shelter has pledged transparency and open communication showing monthly progress (i.e. permitting milestones, site clearing photos, donor recognition).
• Operational shortfalls. If operating donations decline while capital spending grows, the shelter could face staffing or care deficits. A large appeal and understanding that there is no new shelter without continued support of the current shelter is key.
Campaign leaders appear aware of these pitfalls. Their public messaging emphasizes both gratitude for major gifts and the continuing need for operational donations, but community follow-through will be the ultimate determinant of success.
What Success Looks Like
A successful campaign will mean more than a new building. Concrete markers of success include reduced shelter intakes over time (driven by expanded spay/neuter access), improved liverelease rates, shorter stays and more adoptions, a safer and more resilient facility that won’t be taken offline by flooding, and broader public engagement through education programs and volunteerism. Economically, a modern shelter with a public clinic reduces downstream municipal
costs (stray control, public-safety interventions) and strengthens local nonprofit capacity, which benefits taxpayers and residents alike.
Additionally, success will include support for both the capital campaign and operational budget over the next year. The shelter is rallying around the cry: ‘We can together.’ It’s more than a mantra; this slogan is intended to express that it takes everyone to keep the current shelter going while preparing for their new tomorrow.
Dorchester Paws has crossed a vital threshold: the dream is now a defined project with land, major gifts, and a clear timeline. That’s cause for celebration, but also for disciplined, sustained support. Buildings are visible symbols of progress, but the daily work of feeding, treating, and placing animals depends on operational funding and community engagement. If you care about animal welfare in Dorchester County, now is the time to both cheer the capital milestones and keep giving the steady support that keeps the shelter’s doors open today. Donate monthly, consider a restricted capital pledge if you can, foster or volunteer, and amplify the campaign in your networks. Together those actions will turn the promising renderings into a life-saving reality for the animals and families who rely on Dorchester Paws. Because after all – we can together. ■
the WORKAHOLICS of the dog world
Written & Photos by Jeanne Taylor Photography
Within the dog-loving community, you will often hear people encourage prospective dog owners, whether through adoption or responsible preservation breeders, to RESEARCH The breed of interest to ensure the dog’s traits and needs are a match for the lifestyle they would have. For example, if you are looking at a high-energy breed, but you live a sedentary lifestyle, the dog’s needs will not be met, resulting in the pup possibly getting into trouble out of frustration, and a less-than-optimal match overall.
Herding breeds in general are smart - and I mean scary smart. I have watched our herding dogs calculate their next move and the consequences before committing their crime. They are hardwired for a job. In fact, until 1983 dogs now falling within the herding group were previously listed as working dogs. Working and herding dogs share the instinct to control movement within their environment, whether that’s corralling other animals like sheep, cattle, or boar, or even guiding children as they run around the yard and house. Herding breeds are energetic and purposeful; they are responsive to training, but can be stubborn and willful. Many herding dogs can be naturally wary of strangers, but don’t take it personally. It’s just the guarding nature that runs through their veins.
Within these pages, we’ll review a few herding breeds commonly seen in the Lowcountry. Dogs pictured are locals who are from a reputable breeder, a breed- specific rescue, or even a shelter.
Australian Cattle Dogs originated in Australia in the early 19th century when ranchers required a hardy yet efficient herding dog that could help manage cattle across miles of wide expanses of land. Dingos and Blue Collies were crossbred, and further refined by adding into the breeding Bull Terriers, Dalmatians, and Kelpies to create what we now know as ACDs. In the late 20th century, American ranchers saw the value in these dogs too and brought them to the US to work their land here. As relatives to the Dingo, ACD’s are highly intelligent and task focused, and very loyal to their humans. Physically, their stature can be
considered medium-sized, and they should be nicely muscled topping off it about 35 pounds. Their short coats are low maintenance and come in a variety of colors. Their needs for exercise, both physical and mental, must be taken into account when considering adding an ACD to your home.
Australian Shepherds offer a complex origin story that doesn’t include Australia in any way! In fact, they are a US-created breed dating back to around the mid-1800s and the Western US (California, Colorado, Idaho, Wyoming) as their starting point. Their history can only be described as a melting pot of breeds. Aussies, as they are affectionately known, are medium, ranging between 40-65 pounds. They are incredibly smart and driven and fare best when they have activities to occupy their physical and mental needs, whether working a property as true herding dogs or engaged in dog sports.
Aussies are known to be wonderful with children too. Grooming is required as they have mediumlength double coats. Aussies are exceptionally trainable and quite playful. Just be sure you exercise and keep them busy!
For years my husband and I – and most Catahoula people - have half-joked Catahoula Leopards are not for the faint of heart, but it’s absolutely true. The oldest breed indigenous to the US (and the State Dog of Louisiana), Catahoulas are striking to look at and so unique in their appearance, with coats ranging from solids to merles to even brindles. The breed standard varies widely, noting they are a medium-large dog, well-muscled, but should be fit and trim. They are agile and have tremendous stamina. They are also short coated and as a Southern-established breed, they do well in our Lowcountry heat and “air-you-can-wear” humidity. They have webbed toes and are very good swimmers too. Be prepared to argue with your Catahoula as they can have stiff opinions! They are intelligent and willful; independent; and fiercely loyal to their families.
Training is a must, but they do not generally take well to aversive or harsh methods. Their guarding
instincts are also quite intense, which can lead to an overall wariness of strangers and overthe-top alerting. The flip side is they are wellbuilt, hardy dogs who love exciting adventures and make wonderful trail and hiking partners for active pet parents. If you are up for a challenge, and can commit to the training, exercising and socializing required, Catahoulas make excellent family companions.
Corgis come in two varieties: the Pembroke Welsh (no tail) and the Cardigan (tail) and range of colors, including red and blue merle. When properly socialized, they typically get along well with other dogs and adore children. Noted as affectionate and playful, Corgis would be just as happy running as they would be curled up watching a movie with their humans. These cherub-faced lowriders are also surprisingly powerful and hardworking, especially when working cattle. They love the outdoors and excel when their physical exercise and mental stimulation needs are met (and rumor has it that, as a breed, Corgis are ball-obsessed so grab that can of tennis balls and go play fetch)! If you want to see them in faux-action, visit a local dog park and watch them herd their playmates!
Last on our list is the German Shepherd Dog, which also happens to have been my childhood dog, so I can attest to these traits too! GSDs are incredibly loyal and protective, and affectionate with their families and with those known to or trusted by them. Their guard instinct and
Meet the models:
ACDs: Bluey (cover and pg 28 center) Aspen (centerfold and pg 28 bottom right) Eros (pg 28 right and bottom right) Ty (pg 28 bottom left) Aussie: Artemis (pg 26 & above) Herding Mix: Cooper (pg 28 top left) Catahoula: Maple (pg 29) Corgi: Marceline(pg 30) GSDs: Atlas (above) Bridget (top) Sebastian (pg 30 top right)
protective nature can sometimes be off the charts though, so that is an area to weigh when considering a GSD. They are described as good with children (also my experience) and can be the perfect family dog with proper training and socializing. Their medium to long coats do shed and regular brushing is required – a Roomba isn’t a bad idea for GSD families either! Developed as a herding dog in the last 1800s in Germany, they gained popularity in the US in the early 1900s. GSDs are highly intelligent and enjoy expending energy through exercise and mental stimulation. These qualities also make them the top choice for military and law enforcement activities across the globe.
One thing I have heard from all the families participating in this article and photo sessions is how ball obsessed their herders are, so whatever you do, keep that toy box filled!
Due to their intelligence and drive and desire to please, these types of dogs also make excellent agility/sport dogs. And trick training? No problem!
While this list is not all-inclusive, it will hopefully offer an outline of some of the similar traits herding dogs possess. These dogs – ALL dogs actually - do require effort to ensure their needs are met and their quality of life is optimal. But don’t go by looks alone when considering a herding breed; there are so many layers to their personality and you’ll want to be fully prepared. Remember, reputable, preservation breeders will health test their animals; they will often have pre-sold litters and waitlists and will NEVER have handwritten signs tacked to utility poles on the side of the road! There are breedspecific rescues as well. , and shelters also offer purebreds. Whatever route you go, please research the breed traits to know what your requirements will be – then, and only when you are ready, commit!
Go all in and make that dog the best companion for your family.
That is the whole point, isn’t it? ■
Local Dog Events
10/10/25 FURBALL for PET HELPERS
Hotel Bennett 6 pm to 10 pm
10/11/25 DOGTOBERFEST
Freshfield Village 11 am to 3 pm
10/25/25 PINTS FOR PAWS
Stones Throw Brewery 12 pm to 5 pm
10/26/25 THE BAND EVENT
benefiting All 4 Paws
Pawleys Island Tavern 7 pm
10/29/25 TRICK OR TRAINING
The Waverley 6 pm to 9 pm
11/01/25 BERKELEY PAWS
ALLIANCE
Low cost spay & neuter at 2 Springhall Drive in Goose Creek
11/01/2025 & 11/02/2025 DIA DE LOS PERROS
West Farm Corn Maze, Moncks Corner 10 to 5 pm
THE BIG BARK
Celebrating 20 YEARS OF LOWCOUNTRY DOG
Saturday, Nov 15th
Firefly Distillery 12 to 5 pm
12/06/25 BERKELEY PAWS
ALLIANCE
Low cost spay & neuter at 2 Springhall Drive in Goose Creek
EAT, DRINK & RESCUE comes back in February to Estuary Brewery
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
North
Charleston police conduct investigation after pit
bull attack on Commander Road
The North Charleston Police Department is investigating a dog attack that occurred Sunday on Commander Road. According to a report on the incident, officers arrived on scene to find a victim suffering from multiple dog bites, including one on the back of the head that police said was bleeding heavily. The victim reported that they had been attacked by a pit bull that had jumped out of the suspects vehicle as they were leaving the area.”
The last of the 18 abandoned dogs in Goose Creek up for adoption
After nearly 20 dogs were abandoned in Berkeley County, the last dog will finally join a new home.
18 dogs were abandoned at a busy intersection in Goose Creek on Aug. 25, and several community members were eager to lend a helping hand.
The last remaining dog at the Charleston Animal Society was getting neutered and will soon be ready to join a new permanent home.
‘Loyal’ dog was rescued from forest and adopted. Now, he needs another new home
“Meet Wildcat, the hound with the big, floppy ears and an even bigger personality,” a South Carolina animal shelter wrote Sept. 11 on Facebook. “Known as the life of the party, Wildcat wins everyone over with his sweet, social nature and love for treats.”
Click images above to read the full story. For more top stories, visit www.lowcountrydog.com/top-stories
RESCUE STORY
Meet Kylo & Ren
WRITTEN BY KIRSTYN NORTHROP COBB Executive Director of Raskel’s Rescue
It was your typical hot and muggy lowcountry day, the type where it almost feels like you are walking through soup. A Raskel’s Rescue volunteer opened her back door to let her dogs out for their morning ritual when she heard a low whimper. She looked around and saw two puppies in a crate on the other side of her fence. Upon closer inspection, she realized that they had bowls, but no food or water.
Both puppies were quite thin and their little bodies were showing signs of malnourishment. Did they magically appear or were they left intentionally? You decide.
We all know what happened next. The volunteer reached out to Raskel’s Rescue and asked that they be accepted into our shelter. Of course, we said yes.
Once admitted, we named them Kylo and Ren (as they arrived on May 4th, aka Star Wars Day). They joined play groups with the other dogs, received proper meals and started to grow! Both discovered a love of water and can often be found in one of the rescue pools. Both also absolutely LOVE children too; when they see children, they light up and cannot stop wiggling!
For some reason, though, they have been overlooked. Maybe it’s because of their blockheaded appearance. Maybe it’s because adoptions continue to be down nationwide. Whatever the reason, they have not been able to find their forever homes.
Ren is taking this all in stride. He would be happy to stay here at the rescue forever. Kylo, however, has started to show serious signs of kennel stress. He circles and paces until his paws are raw. We have tried everything. He goes on field trips often. Kylo is great in the car and is now a seasoned restaurant and brewery dog! Out and about he is absolutely phenomenal. In the shelter, though, he is depressed and sullen.
We have managed to get Kylo into a foster home, but it is only a temporary foster home and soon, he will be returning to the shelter.
We at Raskel’s Rescue know that Kylo’s forever
home is out there. After all, he is absolutely stunning and super friendly. He knows sit and is crate trained. And his fur is the softest fur imaginable, leading us to believe he could be a fur product spokesdog! In his foster home, Kylo peacefully co-existed with a dog and cats. Now he just needs that perfect person to see what we all see in him and say “THAT’S THE ONE!” and offer him his forever home.
Visit www.raskelsrescue.org to learn more about Kylo and Ren ■
