BERKELEY COUNTY, S.C. — Berkeley County has been recognized for its efforts to improve animal welfare, receiving the Charleston Animal Society’s prestigious Public Service Award during the organization’s annual Lifesaving Celebration.
The award was presented Thursday at the Charleston Animal Society’s 152nd Annual Meeting at Trident Technical College, highlighting the county’s leadership and investment in strengthening animal care through a public-private partnership.
- Charleston Animal Society to Manage Berkeley Animal Center
Officials said the recognition stems largely from Berkeley County’s collaboration with the Charleston Animal Society, which assumed management of the Berkeley Animal Center in July 2025. The transition created the Charleston Animal Society Berkeley Campus, combining resources from two of the largest animal care organizations in South Carolina.
At the time of the transition, the Berkeley shelter was the fourth largest in the state. In the first six months under the new partnership, the campus’ lifesaving rate increased from 77% to 84%, according to county officials.
Leaders say the partnership has also helped position Berkeley County as a model for addressing animal care challenges in a rapidly growing region. Plans are already underway to expand the shelter, including the construction of a $1.6 million, 5,080-square-foot adoption center that will add 27 kennels and increase capacity for adoptions…