“PAWING” IT FORWARD

Charleston Animal Society’s recognition as a national leader in animal sheltering continues to grow.

Grant makers like Maddie’s Fund have taken notice and provided resources for Charleston Animal Society to teach apprenticeships on the national level in fostering, education and shelter medicine. Even during the pandemic, Charleston Animal Society leaders have shared their knowledge base with hundreds of shelter workers across the country using technology like Zoom.

“It is super exciting to share the procedures and protocols we have implemented with other shelter professionals across the country,” said Charleston Animal Society Chief Veterinary Officer Lucy Fuller, DVM.

Likewise, Charleston Animal Society’s Humane Education team has developed an online curriculum that will help other shelters build their own program. “We want every child to learn from humane education,” said Charleston Animal Society Humane Education Director Heather Grogan. “It is empowering and uplifting to develop these tools so shelters across the country can reach more children.”

Even Charleston Animal Society’s CEO Joe Elmore is sharing his management expertise with future shelter leaders who are obtaining their Animal Shelter Management Certification. Elmore is a virtual guest lecturer to these students at the University of the Pacific in Stockton, CA.

“Because we have the capacity to share our knowledge, we feel an obligation to do so,” said Elmore.