BERKELEY COUNTY, S.C. — Berkeley County has been recognized for its efforts to improve animal welfare, receiving the Charleston Animal Society’s prestigious Public Service Award during the organization’s annual Lifesaving Celebration.
The award was presented Thursday at the Charleston Animal Society’s 152nd Annual Meeting at Trident Technical College, highlighting the county’s leadership and investment in strengthening animal care through a public-private partnership.
SEE ALSO:
Officials said the recognition stems largely from Berkeley County’s collaboration with the Charleston Animal Society, which assumed management of the Berkeley Animal Center in July 2025. The transition created the Charleston Animal Society Berkeley Campus, combining resources from two of the largest animal care organizations in South Carolina.
At the time of the transition, the Berkeley shelter was the fourth largest in the state. In the first six months under the new partnership, the campus’ lifesaving rate increased from 77% to 84%, according to county officials.
Leaders say the partnership has also helped position Berkeley County as a model for addressing animal care challenges in a rapidly growing region. Plans are already underway to expand the shelter, including the construction of a $1.6 million, 5,080-square-foot adoption center that will add 27 kennels and increase capacity for adoptions.
County officials have also worked alongside the Animal Society on long-term strategies aimed at reducing the number of animals entering shelters. Those efforts include promoting spay and neuter programs and improving reunification of lost pets with their owners through microchipping and other initiatives.
“This partnership has brought together two of the largest animal care organizations in South Carolina and strengthened animal welfare across our county and region,” said Berkeley County Supervisor Johnny Cribb. “We are proud to see the animal shelter in our county serve as a statewide model.”
Charleston Animal Society President and CEO Joe Elmore said the county’s approach underscores the importance of collaboration in addressing both public health and public safety concerns tied to animal care.
“Berkeley County has consistently supported the understanding that animal care and control are critical public safety and health issues best addressed through strong public-private partnerships,” Elmore said.
County leaders say they plan to continue expanding services as the region grows, with the goal of improving outcomes for both animals and residents.
