NORTH CHARLESTON – Pick Me! SC, the nation’s largest annual statewide dog and cat adoption event, surpassed 2,500 adoptions this year, setting a new national record. Organized by Charleston Animal Society and supported by Petco Love and BOBS® from Skechers®, the event brought together 94 shelters, rescue groups, and Petco pet care centers.
“Breaking this record means more lives were saved across all regions of our state for the seventh consecutive year,” said Pearl Sutton, Chief Lifesaving Officer at Charleston Animal Society. “While final numbers are still being reported, shelters have confirmed that 2,526 dogs and cats found new homes.”
For the first time, every county in South Carolina took part, highlighting the achievements possible when public and private animal welfare organizations collaborate.
“This year’s Pick Me! SC was absolutely outstanding,” said Susanne Kogut, President of Petco Love. “As we celebrate our 25th anniversary of saving lives at Petco Love, reaching over 2,500 adoptions in this event brings even more love to South Carolina. Setting a new record shows the deep compassion and dedication of the people of South Carolina. We’re incredibly grateful for the partnership with Charleston Animal Society, all shelters, rescues, and Petco pet care centers across the Palmetto State.”
Led by No Kill South Carolina 2024, a Charleston Animal Society initiative, and powered by the national nonprofit Petco Love, Pick Me! SC not only organized the adoption drive but also launched a statewide media campaign. In addition, a spay-neuter initiative led by Charleston Animal Society provided nearly 800 surgeries in the week leading up to the event, benefiting pets from 11 different South Carolina counties.
“Pick Me! SC has raised the bar for adoption events nationwide, especially in rural areas,” said Charleston Animal Society President and CEO Joe Elmore.
Charleston Animal Society Board Chair Laurel Greer noted, “The combined efforts of volunteers, sponsors, and the public show how communities statewide can make a powerful difference in the lives of pets.” For more details, visit PickMeSC.org.
