Charleston Animal
Society  CAS/JASPCA
History 
The South Carolina Society for the Prevention of
Cruelty to Animals was founded in Charleston and received a state
charter in 1880. Its immediate concerns were to combat the rampant
cruelty to animals. This included the neglect of work-animals, the
inhumane shipping of cattle, and the epidemic of stray dogs.
In 1940, the Society adopted the name of its early
Board President, John Ancrum, honoring a contribution made from
his estate.
During the mid-1900's, the organization worked to
outlaw cruel animal "sports". One such example was gander
pulling which involved a horseback rider tearing the head from a
live goose while racing full speed. The society also campaigned
successfully to improve the abominable conditions of the city-operated
dog pound.
A Safe Haven
The society continued to work toward a more humane
environment to house abandoned animals and permanent homes. In 1948,
private funds were raised to open the first animal shelter on Meeting
Street. As the pet population grew, other sites followed. Volunteers
managed the operation of these facilities and local veterinarians
donated their services.
The Charleston Animal Society assumed residency at its current
location on Leeds Avenue in 1981. This first-class facility reflects
a long and cooperative partnership between the agency and Charleston
County Council. Upon completion of the shelter, the county terminated
its own animal pound and contracted with the SPCA to provide care
for all of the animals collected by animal control officers.
The Charleston Animal Society continues to fight animal cruelty,
find safe homes for abandoned animals and reduce pet over-population.
The greatest challenge facing the agency today is finding space
and resources to increase pet adoptions as the number of abandoned
pets increases steadily with our growing community.
Your Support is Needed to Continue this Tradition
of Care and Commitment to Excellence. Help us Build a More Humane
Society.
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