AUGUSTA, Ga. — Augusta Animal Services is reaching out to the community for help as it faces an increase in owner surrenders. Daciana Medera, the outreach coordinator, highlighted a case involving a dog named Athena, who arrived at the shelter traumatized and distrustful of people. Medera noted, "She was so shut down, we could hardly even touch her," but Athena is now ready for adoption, described as a "perfectly adoptable dog."
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In 2025, nearly 6,000 animals were taken in by Augusta Animal Services, with about 25% of those being owner surrenders. Medera attributed the rise to escalating veterinary costs, stating, "Vet prices have since 2020 have skyrocketed. I remember the last time I took my dog to the vet for just a regular annual checkup, it was like almost $300."
Animal control officers respond daily to stray animal calls, which can number in the hundreds or thousands. Due to limited shelter space across the Central Savannah River Area (CSRA), surrendered animals may face delays in finding new homes, as strays must be prioritized by law. Medera explained, "If you surrender your animal and we don’t have any space, the odds are the owner surrender animal is going to get the short end of the stick."
Currently, 150 to 200 animals are housed at Augusta Animal Services, which relies on partnerships with regional rescues. Community assistance is crucial. Medera encouraged people to volunteer by walking dogs or engaging with cats in the shelter’s playroom, noting that staff cannot provide all the necessary socialization.
With colder weather approaching, donations are particularly needed, including blankets for warmth, bleach for cleaning, and dog food. Medera also emphasized the importance of spaying, neutering, and properly managing pets to reduce shelter intakes, stating, "People can help that way by spaying and neutering their animals, putting them on a leash, not allowing their cats to roam."
To encourage adoptions, Augusta Animal Services will hold a $20 adoption event on Thursday, October 15, followed by another on Saturday, October 17, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Miracle Toyota. Those unable to adopt are invited to apply for volunteer opportunities.