Rescue organizations and adoption centers vary significantly in their intake processes, meet-and-greet requirements, and home visit policies. Some facilities operate walk-in adoption floors, while foster-based rescues require pre-approved applications before scheduling a visit. A map location will not tell you whether a shelter includes spaying, neutering, vaccinations, and microchipping in its flat adoption fee.
Columbia 2
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Puppy Kingdom
10244 Two Notch Rd Ste 1, Columbia, SC 29229-4398
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Final Victory Animal Rescue
2136 Sumter St, Columbia, SC 29201-2122
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Lucky Pup Rescue SC
Greenville, SC
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Carolina Sunset Pets
0000 Main St, Heath Springs, SC 29058
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Kit-cats
1113 Market Center Blvd Unit D, Mt Pleasant, SC 29464-7468
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By the Beach Animal Rescue
1409 Lanterns Rest Rd, Myrtle Beach, SC 29579
Okatie 1
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Pit Stop Dogs
10 Pritcher Point Rd, Okatie, SC 29909-3727
Pickens 1
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Roxie's Thrifty Paws
208 W Main St, Pickens, SC 29671
Mon-Sat 9am-12pm
Also in South Carolina
- Dog Boarding Facilities234
- Animal Shelters & Rescues184
- Dog Trainers151
- Pet Sitters & Dog Walkers94
- Dog Parks & Off-Leash Areas64
- Indoor Dog Parks23
- Dog Parks with Water Features12
- Fenced Dog Parks8
Good to know
What is typically included in a pet adoption fee?
Most adoption fees cover initial vaccinations, spay or neuter surgery, microchip implantation, and a basic health check. Some organizations also include a starter bag of food, a temporary leash or carrier, and a voucher for a first wellness exam at a local clinic.
How long does the pet adoption process usually take?
Walk-in municipal shelters can often complete an adoption on the same day if you bring a valid ID and proof of residence. Foster-based rescues and specialized groups may take several days or a week to check landlord permissions, review veterinary references, and arrange home visits.
Do adoption centers require all household members to meet the pet first?
Yes, many shelters and rescues require every human living in the household—and often existing family dogs—to participate in a meet-and-greet. This ensures the animal's temperament is a good fit for the entire home environment before the adoption is finalized.
How long is a dog in heat?
A dog's heat cycle typically lasts for several weeks, averaging about three weeks in total. During this period, female dogs should be kept away from communal spaces across South Carolina to avoid accidental breeding. Owners can explore 8 dog parks in South Carolina to plan future visits once the cycle ends.
How long does a dog stay in heat?
Female dogs usually stay in heat for about three weeks, during which they can attract male dogs from significant distances. To ensure safety, restrict outdoor play to private, fully fenced yards throughout South Carolina. Our guide lists 8 dog parks in South Carolina for safe exercise options after the heat cycle completes.