You can help control the Lowcountry’s pet population by supporting local rescues
Saving lives, one pet at a time
Story by Bailey Gilliam
In a world where the connection between humans and animals is deeply valued, local pet rescues serve as lifelines for abandoned and lost pets, bridging the gap to loving homes. These grassroots organizations, powered by passionate volunteers and community support, work tirelessly to save, rehabilitate and rehome countless animals each year. By addressing issues of overpopulation and neglect, local rescues not only offer a second chance for pets but also strengthen our communities by fostering compassion and responsibility. Fortunately, the Lowcountry is home to many such rescues that need your help. Whether you’re looking to adopt, foster, volunteer, donate or simply advocate, here are some remarkable local organizations you can support.
- All About Cats
- Hilton Head Humane
- Beaufort County Animal Services (BCAS)
- Palmetto Animal League (PAL)
- Noah’s Arks Rescue
- Renegade Paws Rescue
- Raskel’s Rescue
- Jasper Animal Rescue Mission (JARM)
- Lovable Paws Rescue
- Humane Association of the Lowcountry (HAL)
- Notable Savannah rescues
- Ten ways to help local rescues
All About Cats
231 Beach City Road, Hilton Head Island
This 100 percent volunteer-based organization is committed to reducing the cat overpopulation in the South Carolina Lowcountry. Through their trap-neuter-return (TNR) program and management of over 30 cat colonies, All About Cats is making a significant impact. They also operate a cat sanctuary on Hilton Head, ensuring every cat has a safe place to thrive.
Contact: allaboutcatshhi.org, allaboutcatshhi@gmail.com
Hilton Head Humane
10 Humane Way, Hilton Head Island; 10 Pritcher Point Road, Okatie
Over the past year Hilton Head Humane has cared for more than 10,000 animals, providing food, shelter, medical care and love until pets find their forever homes. They also spay/neuter and release feral cats, ensuring a humane approach to controlling the population. Entirely funded by membership dues, private donations and bequests, Hilton Head Humane is a cornerstone of animal care in the Lowcountry.
Contact: 843-681-8686, hhhumane.org
Beaufort County Animal Services (BCAS)
10 Pritcher Point Road, Okatie
BCAS promotes responsible pet ownership and public safety by managing stray, unwanted or homeless domestic pets. Their comprehensive relocation program includes health screening, vaccinations and mandatory spaying or neutering, all in compliance with local, state and federal laws. BCAS is dedicated to improving the lives of both pets and people in the community.
Contact: 843-255-5010, beaufortcountysc.gov/animal-services
Palmetto Animal League (PAL)
56 Riverwalk Boulevard, Ridgeland
PAL is an animal rescue organization that believes every animal deserves a second chance. Their adoption center temporarily houses about 200 dogs and cats while they await their forever homes. PAL’s Community Clinic offers essential services like wellness exams and vaccinations at affordable prices, further supporting pet owners in the area.
Contact: 843-645-1725, palmettoanimalleague.org
Noah’s Arks Rescue
231 Hazzard Creek Village, Suite 3, Ridgeland
Noah’s Arks Rescue specializes in giving abused animals a second chance at life. They provide emergency medical care and rehabilitation to animals that have been tortured, abused or neglected, preparing them for new homes and brighter futures.
Contact: 843-540-6755, noahs-arks.net
Renegade Paws Rescue
2357 Ogeechee Road, Savannah (and foster-based)
Founded in 2019, Renegade Paws Rescue is a volunteer-driven organization dedicated to rescuing and caring for unwanted, abused or injured dogs. Although primarily foster-based, they recently acquired a small shelter, thanks to community support, enabling them to expand their lifesaving efforts.
Contact: renegadepawsrescue.org, info@renegadepawsrescue.org
Raskel’s Rescue
11642 Speedway Boulevard, Hardeeville
Inspired by a beloved Basset Hound named Raskel, this nonprofit, no-kill rescue is a tribute to the transformative bond between pets and their people. Raskel’s Rescue is dedicated to finding loving homes for dogs like Raskel, who just needed someone to give him a chance.
Contact: 843-784-7900, raskelsrescue.org
Jasper Animal Rescue Mission (JARM)
1352 Carters Mill Road, Ridgeland
JARM provides shelter and humane care to stray, abandoned, neglected or abused dogs and cats in Jasper County. Their mission includes spaying/neutering to control the population and educating the public about proper pet care and treatment.
Contact: 843-726-7799, jarmission.org
Lovable Paws Rescue
2144 Grays Highway, Ridgeland
Lovable Paws Rescue is a nonprofit, no-kill organization that rescues and rehabilitates unwanted dogs. They provide medical care and love to pets in need, helping them find forever homes. Their Pepper’s Broken Tails Community Fund also supports families who cannot afford veterinary care for their pets.
Contact: 843-422-1549, loveablepawsrescue.org
Humane Association of the Lowcountry (HAL)
Foster-based, Beaufort County
HAL is dedicated to improving the lives and adoption rates of homeless cats and dogs in Beaufort County. Their work depends on donations, rescuers, foster families and the availability of forever homes, all of which help HAL continue its mission.
Contact: halsc.org
Notable Savannah rescues
- Humane Society of Greater Savannah
- GRRR Georgia Rescue Rehabilitation & Relocation
- Chatham County Animal Services
- One Love Animal Rescue
- Coastal Pet Rescue
Ten ways to help local rescues
Whether or not you have room for another pet in your household, there are many ways to support local rescues:
1. Adopt: Provide a loving home to a rescued animal. Adoption not only gives a pet a second chance but also frees up space for another animal in need.
2. Foster: Consider fostering if you can’t adopt. This temporary arrangement helps animals adjust to home life and increases their chances of finding a permanent home.
3. Donate: Financial contributions are crucial for covering medical expenses, food and other necessities. Donations can often be made directly to rescues or through fundraising campaigns.
4. Volunteer: Offer your time and skills to assist with daily operations, such as cleaning, feeding and socializing animals. Many rescues also need help with administrative tasks, events and outreach.
5. Provide supplies: Donate pet food, toys, bedding, grooming supplies and other essentials. Check with each rescue for their specific needs.
6. Spread the word: Share the rescue’s posts and updates on social media or help with outreach efforts to raise awareness about their work and available animals.
7. Organize fundraisers: Host or participate in events like charity runs, auctions or donation drives to raise funds and increase visibility for the rescue.
8. Offer professional services: If you have expertise in areas like veterinary care, grooming, training or legal assistance, consider providing pro-bono services to support the rescue’s mission.
9. Advocate and educate: Promote responsible pet ownership, and advocate for animal welfare in our community. Educate others about the importance of adopting from rescues and supporting their efforts.
10. Support corporate partnerships: If you own a business or work for one, explore opportunities for corporate sponsorships, matching gift programs or in-kind donations to benefit local rescues.
