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PETS Inc. and The Carolinas Humane Society: Finding and Adopting Animals in South Carolina

By Constance Obi · Culture & Recreation Writer

What PETS Inc. and The Carolinas Humane Society Do

PETS Inc. (an acronym for People for the Ethical Treatment of Shelter Animals) and The Carolinas Humane Society are two of South Carolina's largest animal rescue organizations. PETS Inc. operates shelters across the state and focuses on finding homes for dogs, cats, and other animals in their care. The Carolinas Humane Society, based in the Charleston area, runs adoption programs, veterinary clinics, and community outreach to prevent animal cruelty and neglect.

Both organizations take in animals from the community—some surrendered by owners, others rescued from neglect or dangerous situations—and work to place them in permanent homes. They also provide medical care, behavioral assessment, and support services to help animals and adopters succeed together. If you are looking to adopt a pet in South Carolina, these two organizations represent different geographic areas and operational approaches worth understanding.

Key Takeaways

  • PETS Inc. operates multiple shelter locations across South Carolina, while The Carolinas Humane Society serves primarily the Charleston and Lowcountry region.
  • Both organizations house dogs, cats, and other animals available for adoption, with adoption fees that typically cover spaying or neutering, vaccinations, and microchipping.
  • You can view available animals online through each organization's website before visiting in person.
  • The adoption process usually includes an application, a meet-and-greet with the animal, and a waiting period for approval.
  • Both organizations offer post-adoption support, including behavior guidance and veterinary resources, to help your new pet adjust to your home.

PETS Inc. Locations and Services

PETS Inc. maintains multiple shelter locations throughout South Carolina, making it accessible to residents across different regions of the state. Each shelter holds dogs, cats, rabbits, and occasionally other small animals. The organization's website lists current animals available for adoption, with photos, ages, and descriptions of personality and behavior.

When you visit a PETS Inc. shelter, staff can tell you about each animal's history, medical needs, and temperament. Many animals have already been spayed or neutered, vaccinated, and microchipped before adoption. PETS Inc. also offers low-cost spay and neuter clinics to the general public, not just adopters, as part of its mission to reduce animal overpopulation.

The Carolinas Humane Society's Approach and Location

The Carolinas Humane Society operates primarily in Charleston and the surrounding Lowcountry, with a main adoption center and veterinary clinic. The organization emphasizes community education alongside rescue and adoption, offering programs on animal behavior, pet care, and cruelty prevention in schools and neighborhoods.

The Carolinas Humane Society's adoption center houses dogs, cats, and small animals. Like PETS Inc., they provide medical care before adoption and maintain detailed records of each animal's background and needs. The organization also runs a foster program, allowing people to care for animals in their homes while the organization seeks permanent placements.

How the Adoption Process Works

Both organizations follow a similar adoption process. First, you browse available animals online or in person. When you find an animal you are interested in, you complete an adoption form that asks about your living situation, experience with pets, and what you are looking for in a companion.

Staff then review your application and may ask follow-up questions. If approved, you meet the animal again to confirm the match. Some organizations ask you to wait a few days before taking the animal home, giving you time to prepare and allowing staff to contact references. Once approved, you pay the adoption fee and receive the animal's medical records, microchip information, and any special care instructions.

Adoption fees vary but typically range from $50 to $200 depending on the animal's age, breed, and medical history. The fee usually covers spaying or neutering, vaccinations, microchipping, and a veterinary exam.

What Happens After You Adopt

Both PETS Inc. and The Carolinas Humane Society provide resources after adoption to help your new pet settle in. Many offer behavior consultations if your pet shows anxiety, aggression, or other adjustment challenges. They can recommend training resources, answer questions about diet and exercise, and connect you with veterinarians in your area.

If an adoption does not work out, both organizations have return policies. Returning an animal does not result in a penalty; the organization simply works to find a better match. This safety net encourages people to adopt knowing they have support if circumstances change.

Volunteering and Supporting These Organizations

Both PETS Inc. and The Carolinas Humane Society rely on volunteers to care for animals, help with adoptions, and support community programs. Volunteering roles include walking dogs, socializing cats, helping at adoption events, and assisting with administrative tasks. Most organizations provide training and flexible scheduling to fit your availability.

If you cannot volunteer, you can support these organizations through donations, which fund medical care, shelter operations, and community outreach. Some people also donate supplies like food, blankets, toys, or cleaning materials. Check each organization's website for current needs and donation options.

Finding the Right Organization for Your Situation

If you live in the Charleston or Lowcountry area, The Carolinas Humane Society may be your closest option. If you are in another part of South Carolina, PETS Inc. likely has a location nearer to you. Both organizations maintain websites with searchable databases of available animals, so you can start your search online regardless of which you choose.

Consider visiting both if you are in an area where that is possible. Each organization has a different feel, and the animal you are meant to adopt may be at either one. Staff at both places are accustomed to questions and can help you think through what kind of pet fits your home, schedule, and experience level.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I see animals available for adoption before I visit?

Yes. Both PETS Inc. and The Carolinas Humane Society post photos and descriptions of available animals on their websites. You can search by species, age, size, and other traits to narrow down animals that might be a good fit for your home. Visiting the website first saves time and helps you prepare questions for staff.

What if I have never adopted a pet before?

Both organizations work with first-time adopters regularly. Staff can answer questions about pet care, help you choose an animal suited to your experience level, and provide resources after adoption. Do not hesitate to tell them you are new to pet ownership—they will adjust their guidance accordingly.

Do these organizations take animals back if the adoption does not work out?

Yes. Both PETS Inc. and The Carolinas Humane Society accept returns without penalty. If your circumstances change or the animal is not the right fit, you can return it and the organization will work to find it a better home. This policy exists to protect both animals and adopters.

Are there animals other than dogs and cats available for adoption?

Both organizations occasionally have rabbits, guinea pigs, and other small animals. Availability varies, so check their websites or call ahead if you are looking for a specific species. Dogs and cats make up the majority of animals in their care.

How much does adoption cost?

Adoption fees typically range from $50 to $200, depending on the animal's age, breed, and medical needs. The fee covers spaying or neutering, vaccinations, microchipping, and a veterinary exam. Some organizations offer reduced fees for senior animals or during special adoption events.