Columbia Animal Services Launches New Pet Programs

News Summary

Columbia Animal Services is introducing new initiatives focused on pet safety and rehoming to enhance community welfare. Starting April 1, 2025, residents can microchip pets for just $10. Additionally, the innovative ‘Home to Home’ program helps pet owners rehome their animals within the community. Columbia Animal Services is partnering with local organizations to provide resources and support to pet owners in need, aiming to reduce shelter overpopulation and keep families together. The future looks bright for pets as these programs expand.

Columbia Introduces Exciting New Pet Programs to Keep Furry Friends Safe and Loved

Columbia animal lovers have reason to celebrate! Columbia Animal Services is rolling out some fantastic initiatives aimed at not only helping pets find loving homes but also keeping them safe right in their current families. The focus is shifting from the traditional shelter approach to a more community-centered model that encourages education, pet retention, and rehoming support.

Affordable Microchipping for Your Furry Companions

Starting April 1, 2025, residents of Columbia and Richland County will be able to microchip their pets for just $10 at the Columbia Animal Services located at 127 Humane Lane. This is an excellent opportunity to ensure that pets are easily identifiable in case they wander off. Did you know that microchipping can significantly improve return-to-owner rates? It’s true! By getting your pet microchipped, you can help reduce the number of lost animals that end up in the shelter system.

The microchipping service will be available for walk-ins from Monday through Friday between 12:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. Just remember to bring proof of residency along with you. It’s a small price to pay for peace of mind!

Home to Home: A New Way to Rehome Pets

Home to Home” program, which allows pet owners to rehome their furry friends directly within the community. This program has already achieved impressive results, successfully placing nearly 300 pets since its inception in July 2023. National statistics show that up to 87% of dogs and 85% of cats can avoid shelter intakes through effective rehoming initiatives, and this program is a shining example of that.

For those interested in self-rehoming support, simply shoot an email to rehoming@columbiasc.gov for guidance. It’s all about keeping families together while ensuring that pets find loving homes when needed!

Working Together for a Community of Pet Lovers

Columbia Animal Services isn’t stopping there! They are forming partnerships with various social service organizations to expand resources available for pet support. This includes providing essential items like pet food, veterinary assistance, and other necessary supplies, helping pet owners keep their beloved companions healthy and happy.

The shelter also recognizes the 29203 ZIP code as a key area contributing to shelter overpopulation, largely due to limited resources and access to veterinary care. In response, the department has introduced the Pet Fix & Return program, which provides spay/neuter services, microchipping, and rabies vaccines in this essential area. So far, 18 dog owners have benefited from this program, although it currently relies on limited funding. However, there’s hope! A pending corporate grant may soon provide the extra resources needed to keep this fantastic program running.

Be the Change: Get Involved

Columbia Animal Services is eager to promote itself as more than just a shelter; they want to be recognized as a pet resource center for the community. By doing so, they hope to change public perceptions and help reduce overpopulation in shelters. Residents from the 29203 area are strongly encouraged to take advantage of the Pet Fix & Return program, along with additional voucher options available for city and Richland County residents.

Now is a great time to get involved! Columbia Animal Services is always looking for donations and volunteers to support its initiatives. Every bit counts, and with community involvement, the vision of a caring environment for pets can become a reality.

So if you’re a proud pet parent in Columbia, make sure to keep an eye on these initiatives. With affordable microchipping, innovative rehoming programs, and a focus on pet retention, the future looks bright for our furry friends and their families!

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Additional Resources

• WLTX: Columbia Focuses on Underserved ZIP Code
• ABC Columbia: National Microchip Your Pet Month
• Post and Courier: Lexington County Microchipping Mandate
• Cola Daily: Free Microchipping for Dogs
• Wikipedia: Microchip