Today is National Rescue Dog Day + we’ve done some digging to highlight several local animal shelters looking for some purrfect permanent homes or foster parents. Consider lending a paw in the form of adoption, donations, time, or money.

Animal Mission

Animal Mission is a local nonprofit that provides free or low-cost spaying or neutering services to help prevent euthanasia in local municipal shelters. See seven local shelters you can adopt from.

See a list of adoptable dogs for Columbia and take home a forever friend. | Photo via City of Columbia Animal Services

City Of Columbia Animal Services

Adoptable pets are priced at $35 each, with ongoing special promotions throughout the year — in honor of National Rescue Dog Day, it's waiving all adoption fees for dogs today. Bonus: So is Lexington County Animal Services Adoptions. See a list of adoptable dogs for Columbia and Lexington.

Final Victory Rescue

Looking to adopt or foster? Read through its pre-adoption info and the adoption process, or apply to become a foster family. Pro tip: Final Victory provides all necessary medications/treatments, food, and supplies needed during foster care.

Homeward Bound Pet Rescue

Homeward Bound Pet Rescue is a local, all-volunteer, 501c3 nonprofit committed to saving the lives of stray animals in the Midlands. Homeward Bound doesn't have a facility, so all of its animals stay in foster homes. Become a foster family (necessary items provided) or apply to adopt.

You can adopt or foster cats and dogs at Pawmetto Lifeline. | Photo by @anthonysabido

Pawmetto Lifeline

Pawmetto Lifeline offers a low-cost Wellness Clinic, a Care-a-Van mobile vaccine clinic, and a low-cost Spay/Neuter Clinic. See its event lineup and get involved.

PETSinc

PETSinc offers veterinary services, grooming, training, and even has a thrift store located in West Columbia that supports its mission. See available cats and dogs.

9 Lives Cat Rescue

9 Lives Cat Rescue helps to rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome cats and kittens in crisis. It also facilitates a Trap-Neuter-Return Program, reducing the number of homeless cats in our community. See a current list of adoptable cats.