Greenville County Animal Care saved more than 90% of animals it took in last year

Greenville County Animal Care announced Tuesday morning it reached no-kill status in 2019.

The animal shelter announced in 2015 that it was working toward the goal of becoming a no-kill community. No-kill status is typically reached when a community is able to save 90% or more of the animals it takes in.

As a county-run facility, Greenville County Animal Care does not turn animals away. This policy means the shelter sometimes takes in animals with incurable issues or illnesses that must ultimately be put down.

Shelly Simmons, animal care manager, said the no-kill goal is one the shelter couldn't have reached without the community's help. One big change they've noticed is they're receiving fewer animals that don't need major medical care.

"I honestly just want to thank everybody, because before we started this in 2014 we were taking in 18,000 animals per year. In 2019, we took in less than 9,000," Simmons said. "That's cut in half and it's not something we can do here. It really does take everyone in the community to say they're willing to help."

GCAC shared a graphic on Facebook detailing its accomplishments in 2019 that led to the status. Among the stats is a 91% save rate, as well as 8,300 targeted spay and neuter surgeries and 315 pets kept in their homes thanks to surrender prevention programs.

Simmons said she hopes the announcement doesn't cause the community to think the work is done. The organization always needs volunteers, donations, foster homes and more.

“We know it’s not going to get easier just because we made the announcement. It’s harder now than ever because of the animals that we’re seeing," Simmons said.

While the community is doing a great job of keeping healthy animals out of the shelter, the facility is now receiving a larger number of animals facing more traumatic or serious health issues.

Simmons has a goal in 2020 to work to provide more extensive assistance for those issues as well as behavior training, quality of life enrichment for animals that require long stays at the facilities and more.

Anyone interested in learning more can visit greenvillecounty.org/acs or call, email or visit the facility on Furman Hall Road to find out about opportunities to help.

Email Elizabeth at elafleur@greenvillenews.com