The Humane Society of Greenville County: A Haven for Animals in Need

The Humane Society of Greenville County (HSGC) is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing shelter, care, and advocacy for homeless, abandoned, and abused animals in Greenville County, South Carolina. Founded in 1935, HSGC has been a vital part of the community for over 80 years, working tirelessly to improve the lives of animals and their human companions.

Mission and Goals

The mission of HSGC is to empower people to care for companion animals to foster a humane and healthy community. Its goals include:

• Providing refuge: Rescuing and sheltering homeless, stray, and abandoned animals
• Promoting adoption: Matching animals with loving and responsible homes
• Offering veterinary care: Providing affordable spay/neuter, vaccination, and other essential medical services
• Educating the public: Raising awareness about responsible pet ownership and animal welfare
• Advocating for animals: Working to improve animal welfare laws and policies

Impact and Achievements

Since its inception, HSGC has had a profound impact on the Greenville community. Some key achievements include:

• Saving lives: HSGC has rescued over 120,000 animals since 2010, providing them with a second chance at life.
• Finding homes: Over 80,000 animals have been adopted into loving homes through HSGC's adoption program.
• Reducing pet overpopulation: HSGC has performed over 50,000 spay/neuter surgeries, helping to curb the number of unwanted litters in the community.
• Educating the public: HSGC has reached over 20,000 people through its educational programs, promoting responsible pet ownership and animal welfare.
• Advocating for change: HSGC has played a pivotal role in advocating for stronger animal welfare laws, including the passage of South Carolina's "Puppy Mill Act" in 2010.

Programs and Services

HSGC offers a wide range of programs and services to meet the needs of animals and their human companions, including:

• Adoption program: A foster-based adoption program that allows potential adopters to care for animals prior to adoption.
• Veterinary clinic: An affordable veterinary clinic providing low-cost vaccinations, spay/neuter surgeries, microchipping, and other essential medical services.
• Community outreach: Outreach programs that provide pet food assistance, spay/neuter vouchers, and educational materials to underserved communities.
• Educational programs: Educational programs for children and adults on topics such as responsible pet ownership, animal welfare, and humane education.
• Volunteer opportunities: Volunteer opportunities for individuals of all ages to assist with animal care, adoption events, and other HSGC programs.

How to Support HSGC

There are several ways to support the Humane Society of Greenville County:

• Adopt: Give a homeless animal a loving home by adopting from HSGC.
• Donate: Make a financial contribution to support HSGC's programs and services.
• Volunteer: Dedicate your time to helping animals in need by volunteering at HSGC.
• Advocate: Speak out for animals and support animal welfare legislation.
• Shop: Purchase merchandise from HSGC's online store or thrift store.

Success Stories

Max's Story

Max was a stray puppy who was found wandering the streets, scared and alone. He was brought to HSGC, where he received veterinary care and was placed in a foster home. After several weeks, a loving family adopted Max and gave him the home he had always longed for.

What we learn: Even animals who have faced adversity can find happiness and a loving home.

Bella's Story

Bella was a senior dog who was surrendered to HSGC by her owner, who could no longer care for her. Despite her age, Bella was still full of life and love. HSGC found a special family who was willing to open their hearts and home to Bella, giving her a peaceful and dignified retirement.

What we learn: Senior animals deserve love and companionship just as much as younger animals.

Oliver's Story

Oliver was a stray cat who was brought to HSGC with a severe injury to his leg. HSGC provided him with emergency veterinary care, including surgery to repair his leg. After recovering from his surgery, Oliver was adopted by a loving family who gave him the care and attention he needed to thrive.

What we learn: With the right care and support, animals can overcome even the most difficult challenges.

Step-by-Step Guide to Adopting an Animal from HSGC

1. Visit the website: Browse the adoptable animals on HSGC's website and select the ones you are interested in.
2. Schedule an appointment: Contact HSGC to schedule an appointment to meet the animal in person.
3. Submit an application: Complete an adoption application online or in person.
4. Meet the animal: Visit the animal at the shelter or foster home to learn more about their personality and needs.
5. Interview with staff: Meet with an HSGC staff member to discuss your lifestyle, experience with animals, and expectations for adoption.
6. Home visit: An HSGC staff member will conduct a home visit to ensure that your home is a safe and suitable environment for the animal.
7. Adoption: Once your application is approved, you can finalize the adoption process and bring your new pet home.

Pros and Cons of Adopting an Animal from HSGC

Pros:

• Saving a life: You will be giving a homeless animal a second chance at a happy and healthy life.
• Getting a loyal companion: Adopted animals are often incredibly grateful for being rescued and will provide you with unconditional love and affection.
• Supporting a good cause: Your adoption fee will help HSGC continue to provide essential programs and services to animals in need.

Cons:

• Potential health issues: Adopted animals may have health issues that require ongoing veterinary care.
• Behavioral challenges: Some adopted animals may have behavioral challenges that require training and patience.
• Time commitment: Owning a pet is a significant time commitment, and you need to be prepared to provide adequate care, food, and attention.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the adoption fee? The adoption fee varies depending on the type of animal and its age.
2. Are all animals up to date on vaccinations? Yes, all animals adopted from HSGC are up to date on age-appropriate vaccinations.
3. Do you offer spay/neuter services? Yes, HSGC offers low-cost spay/neuter surgeries for all adopted animals.
4. What is your return policy? HSGC has a 10-day return policy for any adopted animal that does not work out in its new home.
5. Do you accept walk-in adoptions? HSGC does not accept walk-in adoptions. You must schedule an appointment to meet the animals and complete an adoption application.
6. Where is HSGC located? HSGC is located at 305 Airport Road, Greenville, SC 29607.

Conclusion

The Humane Society of Greenville County is a vital asset to the community, providing refuge, care, and advocacy for animals in need. By supporting HSGC, you can make a real difference in the lives of animals and their human companions. Whether you adopt an animal, volunteer your time, or make a financial contribution, every act of kindness helps to create a more humane and compassionate community for all.

Helpful Tables

Table 1: HSGC Rescue Statistics

Table 2: HSGC Adoption Statistics

Table 3: HSGC Veterinary Care Statistics