Building a No Kill South Carolina

An Initiative of the Charleston Animal Society

Illustrated silhouettes of a dog, poodle, and cat
A black kitten resting on a blue blanket

No Kill South Carolina

Every healthy and treatable pet deserves a chance at life. Together, we are working to create communities across South Carolina where lifesaving is the standard, not the exception.

Lifesaving Cannot Come At
The Expense Of Humane Care

We are working to raise the standard of care to ensure the welfare of all sheltered animals.

Community-Based

No shelter, rescue, or person can do it alone. We are creating no kill communities!

Research-Based

We use and promote proven strategies backed by science and research.

Nonjudgmental Approach

Our only interest is to help you move forward. We are not here to criticize, we are here to help!

Powered by
Lifesaving
Leadership

PickMe!SC is an initiative of Charleston Animal Society, proudly supported by Petco Love, working together to create a No Kill South Carolina.

Through statewide collaboration, community partnerships, and lifesaving programs, this movement helps shelters save more lives, reduce overcrowding, and connect more pets with loving families.

Together, we are building a future where every healthy and treatable pet has the chance for a safe, loving home.

A black and tan long-haired dog standing in a shelter

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Charleston, South Carolina historic district streetscape with palmettos and colorful buildings

A Statewide
Movement

No Kill South Carolina is a grassroots initiative made up of animal welfare professionals, shelters, and partners working together toward a shared goal: a No Kill state. Through collaboration, innovation, and community support, thousands of animals are being given a second chance at life each year.

Petco Love

Petco Love is a life-changing nonprofit organization that makes communities and pet families closer, stronger, and healthier. Since 1999, we have empowered animal welfare partners to drive lifesaving change alongside us — investing nearly $433 million in adoption and other lifesaving efforts. We have helped find loving homes for more than 7.1 million pets in partnership with Petco and organizations nationwide.

A volunteer being kissed by a happy puppy at an adoption event
Framed Governor Proclamation declaring No Kill South Carolina Day

Historic Milestone:

South Carolina
Becomes a No Kill State!

For the first time in history, South Carolina achieved a 90% lifesaving rate for shelter pets in 2024. Spearheaded by the Charleston Animal Society’s No Kill South Carolina (NKSC) initiative and powered by unwavering support from Petco Love, this massive statewide collaboration has given over 892,000 pets a second chance at life since 2016.

To honor this groundbreaking achievement, Governor Henry McMaster officially named May 8th “No Kill South Carolina Day.” While the animal welfare community continues to tackle challenges like veterinary shortages and underfunding, this monumental victory proves what is possible when a state unites to protect its most vulnerable animals.

Open Your Heart, Open Your Home

Whether you adopt, foster, volunteer, or support your local shelter, you play a role in saving lives.