Leading the Charge for Animal Welfare
in South Carolina
The South Carolina Animal Welfare Alliance (SCAWA) brings citizens, animal advocates, shelters, rescues, law enforcement, animal control and elected officials together to strengthen animal welfare laws and local ordinances across South Carolina.
We believe meaningful change happens when communities work together, and that even one step forward can make a difference.
South Carolina Can Do Better
Across South Carolina, the protections animals receive can vary significantly depending on where they live.
Some communities have clear, enforceable standards for humane care, shelter and tethering. Others rely on outdated or vague ordinances that can make it difficult for animal control and law enforcement to intervene before an animal's condition becomes severe.
SCAWA is working to change that.
Our goal is to establish clear, reasonable and enforceable standards for animal welfare across South Carolina while giving local communities and law enforcement the tools they need to protect animals effectively.
LOCAL CHANGE
We work with counties and municipalities to review and strengthen local animal ordinances.
STATEWIDE CHANGE
We advocate for thoughtful legislation that improves animal welfare protections throughout South Carolina.
What We're Fighting For
We are dedicated to elevating animal welfare in South Carolina through strategic policy improvement and grassroots advocacy.
SCAWA focuses on practical reforms that protect animals, support responsible pet ownership and give animal control and law enforcement clearer tools for enforcement.
The ALDF ranks South Carolina 40 out of 50 states for animal welfare legislation - this needs to change in 2027.
Adequate Shelter
Clear standards requiring animals to have safe, sanitary shelter that protects them from dangerous weather and environmental conditions.
Humane Care
Measurable standards for food, water, sanitation, veterinary care and living conditions.
Humane Tethering
Reasonable requirements designed to prevent prolonged, unsafe and inhumane tethering.
Responsible Breeding
Reasonable standards that promote responsible breeding practices and protect animals from neglect and overcrowding.
Accessible Spay & Neuter Programs
Expand access to affordable spay and neuter programs across South Carolina to help families care for their pets, reduce unintended litters, ease overcrowding in shelters and rescues, and reduce the number of homeless animals entering our communities.
Animal Control & Community Resources
Advocate for adequate funding, staffing, training and resources for animal control agencies so officers have the tools and capacity to enforce animal welfare laws effectively. We also support increased resources and community solutions for stray, abandoned and homeless animals to reduce shelter overcrowding, improve outcomes and help ensure animals in need have somewhere safe to go.
Accountability for Cruelty & Neglect
Strengthen South Carolina’s animal cruelty and neglect laws so serious cases carry meaningful consequences and law enforcement has stronger tools to protect animals.
Through Riley’s Act, SCAWA is advocating for increased fines and potential sentences for animal cruelty and neglect offenses, stronger restrictions on animal ownership following convictions, and a statewide public database of individuals convicted of animal cruelty crimes.
Our goal is simple: serious animal cruelty and neglect should be taken seriously, repeat offenders should be easier to identify, and those who harm animals should be held accountable.
Sign the Petition for Riley's Act
Your Voice Saves Lives
Every dollar you give helps us protect the animals of South Carolina. Your support funds critical advocacy efforts, grassroots education, and policy initiatives that ensure every pet receives the care and protection they deserve.
.jpg)
Join the Movement
Whether you want to attend a council meeting, speak during public comment, contact your elected officials or simply support other advocates, there is a place for you at SCAWA. Tell us where you live and how you'd like to help, and we'll connect you with opportunities in your community.
Contact Your Representatives
Stay informed and take action by finding your local representatives.
We provide:
- The tools to connect with your state legislators and local officials to advocate for stronger animal welfare policies and grassroots support
- Guidance to ensure your voice is heard in the legislative process and in local advocacy efforts.
