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Animal Shelters & Rescues in Columbia, SC

7 of the 39 dog parks, shelters, trainers and boarding kennels we list in Columbia are shelter and rescue services.

Organizations vary between open-admission municipal facilities and private, foster-based rescues that do not operate a public viewing kennel. Choosing where to adopt depends on whether you want to walk through on-site kennels or submit an application online before meeting dogs in private homes. Adoption fees, home visit requirements, and hold periods for stray animals differ significantly across locations.

  1. Dogs Best Friend

    951 Camp Ground Rd, Columbia, SC 29203

    Indoor
    Call Website Directions

  2. Irmo Pet Retreat

    8027 Irmo Dr, Columbia, SC 29212-8237

    Mon-Fri 8am-12pm, Sat 10am-4pm, Sun 3pm-6pm

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  3. Humane Society-South Carolina

    121 Humane Ln, Columbia, SC 29209-4605

    Mon-Thu 8:30am-5pm

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  4. Pawmetto Lifeline

    1275 Bower Pkwy, Columbia, SC 29212-3707

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  5. City Of Columbia Animal Services

    127 Humane Ln, Columbia, SC 29209

    Call Website Directions

  6. Project Pet

    1275 Bower Pkwy, Columbia, SC 29212

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  7. City Of Columbia Animal Shelter

    127 Humane Ln, Columbia, SC 29209

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Check visitor policies early. Municipal facilities usually allow walk-in visits during public hours, but private rescues often require an approved application before scheduling a meet-and-greet.

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Good to know

What is the difference between an animal shelter and a rescue organization?

Shelters typically operate a physical facility that houses stray or surrendered animals directly on site. Rescue organizations are often run by volunteers using network foster homes, meaning animals live in private residences until adoption.

How much does it typically cost to adopt a dog?

Adoption fees typically range from $50 to $350 depending on the organization and the age of the dog. Puppies usually carry higher fees, while standard fees generally include spay or neuter surgery, initial vaccinations, and a microchip.

Can I bring my current dog to meet a potential rescue dog?

Most organizations require or strongly encourage a controlled meet-and-greet between your existing dog and the rescue dog before finalizing an adoption. Staff or foster parents usually facilitate this interaction on neutral ground at the facility or a local park.