4 days Ago
Since 1935, the SPCA Albrecht Center has proudly served the Aiken residents and their animals, reflecting the compassion and dedication of this animal loving community. However, we recognize that misinformation about animal sheltering can create gaps in understanding. In this article, we aim to address some common myths and misconceptions about the work we do and the animals we care for.
1. We Are a Branch of the ASPCA - FALSE The SPCA Albrecht Center is a local, independent organization dedicated to improving animal welfare right here in Aiken. Our work is all funded by local donations and community support of our services.
When you contribute, adopt, or shop with us, your dollars stay in the community, making a visible difference for animals and people alike. From lifesaving veterinary care to sheltering pets in need, your support ensures a direct, positive impact right in front of your eyes. 2.
Free Adoptions Don’t Go to Good Homes - FALSE Fee-waived adoptions are often met with concerns about returns, abuse, or neglect. However, studies from reputable organizations like the Humane Society of the United States and ASPCA show the majority of pets adopted during these promotions remain in loving homes, with 93% of dogs and 95% of cats still with their adopters after a year. At the SPCA Albrecht Center, our adoption counselors screen potential adopters to ensure a good match, and promotions allow many adopters to reallocate money saved on adoption fees toward ongoing pet care.
For us, fee waivers highlight the urgent need for adoptions without compromising the quality of those homes. 3. No-Kill Shelters Don’t Need Help - FALSE The terms "no-kill" and "kill shelter" are often misunderstood.
Many assume that no-kill shelters never euthanize animals and that shelters without this status euthanize every animal they take in. Neither is true. At the SPCA Albrecht Center, we are proud to not euthanize for space — a privilege not all shelters can afford.
Every shelter’s ability to save lives depends on resources like medical care, behavioral training, space, and staff, which are often limited. Ultimately, it is community support and involvement that makes life saving work possible. Together, we can ensure better outcomes for all shelter animals.
4. Taking a Stray Animal to the Shelter Is Always the Best Option - FALSE While it may seem helpful, taking a stray animal to the shelter isn’t always the best solution. Many strays are beloved pets that have wandered from home and are likely to live nearby.
Removing them from their neighborhood often makes it harder for them to reunite with their family. Instead, try knocking on doors, posting on social media, or putting up signs in the area to locate the owner. Shelters can be stressful environments, especially for pets with homes, so they should be a last resort when other efforts to reunite the animal with its family have been exhausted.
5. Shelter Animals Have Behavioral Issues – FALSE Many people mistakenly believe that shelter animals are problematic or "broken," but this couldn’t be further from the truth. Animals end up in shelters for a variety of reasons, including family circumstances or being rescued from neglect.
Shelter pets are often resilient and eager to bond with their new families. Adult shelter pets are often overlooked in favor of puppies or kittens, but they’re frequently better suited for the average family, already knowing basic skills like house training and being more settled in temperament. Shelter staff provide valuable insights into an animal's history, personality, and compatibility with other pets.
With patience, love, and care, adopted animals can become devoted and grateful companions. At the SPCA Albrecht Center, we work tirelessly to provide each pet with the love, care, and opportunity they deserve, and we couldn’t do it without the support of our community. Misinformation about animal shelters and the pets we care for can discourage potential adopters, but the truth is far more hopeful.
We invite you to visit us and see for yourself. Come meet our wonderful shelter pets, chat with our dedicated staff, and take a tour of our facility to witness the heart of our mission in action. Whether you’re looking to adopt, volunteer, or simply learn more, you’ll find plenty of ways to make a difference.
Together, we can continue to create brighter futures for animals in need..
