May 28, 2024
By: Jade Garrett – SPCA Albrecht Center Events & Fundraising Manager
Executive Director, Sybil Altman, receiving transport of dogs from partner shelter in Marion County
One of the most frequently asked questions that we receive from donors, volunteers, and the community is, “Are you a no-kill animal shelter?” In fact, the term “no-kill” can often be misunderstood.
It doesn’t mean that animals are never euthanized, but rather that the shelter or organization aims to save at least 90% of the animals it takes in and animals are not euthanized because the facility has run out of space. For the SPCA Albrecht Center, this goal is achieved through prioritizing adoptions, foster care, medical treatment, and active community involvement to maintain a high survival rate.
SPCA staff work with the transport team to securely and efficiently load cats into the van.
In “no-kill” shelters, euthanasia is typically reserved for two specific situations: severe medical conditions and significant behavioral issues. Animals suffering from untreatable illnesses or injuries, where their quality of life would be severely compromised, may be humanely euthanized. These decisions are made with veterinary guidance and only after all other medical interventions have been exhausted. Similarly, animals with severe behavioral issues that pose a risk to other animals, shelter staff, or potential adopters may also be euthanized, but only after extensive rehabilitation efforts have failed.
And while we are committed to improving the lives of all homeless, abused, and neglected animals in our community, it’s not just about saving as many animals as possible. We have a responsibility to also ensure a good quality of life for each one. This approach demands significant resources – including medical care, behavioral training, and adequate space and staff to care for the animals that come through our doors.
Cats wait to be loaded into Charleston Animal Society’s van.
The differences between open-admission and limited-admission shelters are also an important aspect to consider in the conversation of a shelter with a “no-kill” status. Open-Admission Shelters often face more challenges in maintaining a “no kill” status as they accept all animals brought to them, regardless of health or behavior. On the other hand, Limited-Admission shelters operate with a more selective intake process and often leads to instances where animals are turned away due to capacity constraints.
In either case, community involvement is pivotal in supporting the mission of “no-kill” shelters. These organizations depend on donations, volunteers, and community engagement to sustain operations and manage the delicate balance between providing care and managing resources.
The SPCA Albrecht Center operates with a specific capacity to ensure each animal receives optimal care. We manage our intake based on available resources – including space, staff, and funding. In 2023, we achieved 1,018 adoptions. This is in addition to the 47 animals that were transferred to partner shelters, 119 stray animals reunited with their owners, and the 90 cats were trapped, neutered, and returned (TNR). These figures demonstrate our commitment to effective resource management and maximizing positive outcomes for the animals in our care.
We understand that the topic of “no-kill” shelters is complex. This is why we believe that transparency is key. Shelters should be open about their policies, euthanasia rates, and the challenges they face. Our dedication to saving lives and educating the community remains strong, and with continued support, we can ensure a brighter future for all the animals we serve.
Jade Garrett is the Events & Fundraising Manager for the SPCA Albrecht Center in Aiken, SC. She is a seasoned marketing professional who found her way to the shelter in the fall of 2023. With a lifelong passion for animal welfare, she is excited to continue making a difference in the lives of homeless animals in our community for many years to come.
