COLUMBIA, S.C. — Columbia Animal Services is working to curb the growing number of dogs entering its already overburdened shelter. After reviewing recent intake data, the city has pinpointed a key area contributing to the overpopulation: the 29203 ZIP code.
“When we really started to dig into our statistics, we learned that 29203 contributes the most to our intake,” said Victoria Clary, Superintendent of Columbia Animal Services. “We also discovered that the area is very under-resourced, with limited access to veterinary care. We weren’t successful in finding a vet clinic in the area, so we know the care options are scarce.”
The lack of veterinary services means fewer dogs are spayed or neutered, leading to more stray and abandoned animals entering the shelter. The department launched the Pet Fix & Return (PFR) program earlier this year to address these challenges.
“What that does is offer a packaged deal of spay/neuter, microchip, and rabies vaccines to pet owners in 29203,” Clary explained.
Since the program's soft launch this summer, Columbia Animal Services has assisted 18 dog owners in the area. However, funding limits the program's resources. A pending corporate grant currently supports the program, and Clary is optimistic about its approval.
“We are funding it through a grant, and it’s while resources last,” Clary said. “We are looking at ways to sustain the program over time, but right now, we’re just trying to measure the results.”
“What we would hope for this specific jurisdiction over time is to see intake come down at the shelter from that population,” Clary added. “We think that can happen by offering them access to care they currently lack.”
Beyond managing intake, Clary aims to change the public's perception of Columbia Animal Services by continuing to provide the community with resources.
“We would really like to be viewed as a pet resource center,” she said. “The shelter should be the last resort. We want to support pet owners in every way we can, because the shelter is very under-resourced with limited staff and space.”
Columbia Animal Services encourages participation in the PFR program for residents of the 29203 ZIP code. Those interested can call (803) 776-7387 or apply online. The department also offers other voucher programs for city and Richland County residents.
As always, Animal Services is accepting donations and volunteers.