Bring a chair, a blanket, and your pup for Woofstock 2021.
Putting the FUN in fundraisers, these events—from outdoor music festivals to groovy galas—raise money and awareness to help furry friends in need.
October 10 - Woofstock
Dogs and their humans are sure to dig this “pawsome” all-day music festival, featuring Sister Hazel and Kevn Kinney from Drivin’ n Cryin’, among a full lineup of talent. Between sets, shop local vendors and enjoy eats from a variety of food trucks. Presented by Lowcountry Dog magazine, this event has raised more than $20,000 for pet rescues and shelters over the years. Hanahan Amphitheatre, 3100 Mabeline Rd. Sunday, 11 a.m.-7 p.m. $35. woofstock2021.com
October 14 & November 11 - Paws on The Patio
Join local pups and their people at Burtons Grill in Mount Pleasant Towne Centre for great eats, drinks, and a tail-wagging good time, all to benefit Charleston Animal Society. This canine-focused outdoor happy hour includes two drinks, a platter of shared appetizers for each table, and a doggie gift bag from Hairy Winston Pet Boutique. Burtons Grill, 1875 Hwy. 17, Mount Pleasant. Thursday, 6-8 p.m. $30 per person. mtpleasanttownecentre.com/events
October 16 - Applause for Paws Gala
Get ready to get funky and raise some funds at Charleston Animal Society’s “Frisky a Go-Go”-themed party, including dinner, dancing to The First Class Band, and a live auction, featuring jewelry, vacations, and a golf cart. Gaillard Center, 95 Calhoun St. Saturday, 6:30-10:30 p.m. $250. charlestonanimalsociety.org
Pet Helpers’ Shelter a Pet raffle
November 6 - The Wizard of Paws
While Pet Helper’s 17th annual Fur Ball is already sold out, you can still help by participating in their raffle: buy a $100 ticket (only 200 will be sold) for a chance to win cash prizes, ranging from $250 to $5,000! Seven winners will be drawn at the event, which will be live-streamed on Facebook. pethelpers.org
March 19, 2022 - Celebrity Paws in the Park
Mark your calendar for Charleston Animal Society’s new signature event, featuring Travis Brorsen of Animal Planet fame. Dog lovers know him from his show My Big Fat Pet Makeover, as well as his first-place finish on the Greatest American Dog. The main event will be a 5K run and walk, accompanied by the ever-popular Dock Dogs diving competition, agility trail demonstrations, and a host of educational programs. In addition, attendees can enjoy the Rescue Brew Beer Garden and fare from local food trucks. Riverfront Park, 1061 Everglades Ave., North Charleston. charlestonanimalsociety.org
*Due to the coronavirus, be sure to check all event websites for updated info.
More than 350 animal welfare groups and 82 shelters joined forces to create No Kill South Carolina, a coalition dedicated to improving quality of care in shelters statewide. If you’re looking to add to your family, here are a few great places to start
Charleston Animal Society: Founded in 1874 and operating as a no-kill shelter since 2013, CAS takes in upward of 20,000 animals—including cats, dogs, horses, and more—each year. 2455 Remount Rd., North Charleston. charlestonanimalsociety.org
Pet Helpers: On a mission to save all adoptable animals, this no-kill shelter also offers low-cost spay-and-neuter programs, operates a food bank, and works to free community dogs who live confined to chains. 1447 Folly Rd., pethelpers.org
Hallie Hill Animal Sanctuary: With 30-plus acres of land providing large enclosures for dogs and cats alike to live and play, this facility takes in senior dogs and those with long-standing medical conditions, offering every animal a helping hand. 5604 New Rd., Hollywood. halliehill.com
Dorchester Paws: In 2020, this coalition partner placed more than 1,700 animals into foster care within the state and adopted out nearly 3,000 into forever homes. 1364 Paws Ln., Summerville. dorchesterpaws.org
For a complete list of participating shelters, visit nokillsouthcarolina.org.
Photographs by (woofstock) Zeppelin Studios & courtesy of (Woofstock poster) Lowcountry Dog, (gala poster) Charleston Animal Society, & (raffle ticket) Pet Helpers