SCAWA Advocates Request Stricter Animal Welfare Measures in Berkeley County

Animal welfare activists have intensified their campaign for stricter animal cruelty penalties in South Carolina following the introduction of the Riley’s Act earlier this year. The South Carolina Animal Welfare Alliance (SCAWA) is leading efforts to persuade local governments to amend their animal welfare ordinances.

At the Berkeley County council meeting on August 24, SCAWA advocates, identifiable by their Code Red shirts, urged council members to update the county's pet ordinance, which has remained unchanged since 2005. They are advocating for several proposals, including mandatory microchipping for all pets, improved tethering laws, accessible spay and neuter programs, and breeder registration.

SCAWA representatives argue that microchipping pets not only assists in reuniting lost animals with their owners but also helps mitigate overcrowding in shelters, thus reducing operational costs and risks of euthanasia. Casey Brazil, an advocate for SCAWA, highlighted the urgent situation at South Carolina shelters, noting, "Everyone is at max capacity or over capacity."

Affordable spay and neuter programs are also critical, Brazil stated, as they can significantly reduce the number of animals entering shelters. Additionally, breeder registration could help curtail irresponsible breeding practices that often lead to cruelty and unwanted litters.

Amanda Adams, another SCAWA volunteer, pointed out deficiencies in Berkeley County's tethering laws, explaining that current regulations do not protect pets during emergencies. "You could literally leave your dog on a tether and be evacuated for a hurricane, and just leave your dog outside. That’s not [presently] against the law," she stated. Adams suggested enhancing tethering laws to include weather restrictions.

Brazil referenced Greenville County as a model for effective tethering laws, citing Richland and Spartanburg counties for their strong breeding regulations.

Last year, Alabama enacted Beau’s Law, its first pet protection law in 26 years, which prohibits harmful tethering practices and establishes penalties for violations. The law is set to take effect on October 1.

SCAWA aims to introduce similar legislation in South Carolina to increase penalties for animal abuse, extend prison sentences, and establish a statewide database for offenders. Currently, South Carolina ranks 40th in animal protection laws, while Alabama hopes to improve its standing after the implementation of Beau’s Law.

Aldwin Roman, senior vice president and chief operating officer of the Charleston Animal Society, informed council members that euthanasia rates in the state have dropped by 43 percent over the last year. Berkeley County Councilwoman Amy Stern has shown support for SCAWA’s initiatives. Notably, a bill to amend Ordinance 05-05-20, Bill No. 26-61, was added to the agenda at last month's meeting and is scheduled for its first reading on September 28.