Aiken County Animal Shelter: Spring is here and it's time to adopt

The Aiken County Animal Shelter says a wide variety of dogs and cats are available this spring, and adoption counselors Cynthia Gray, Bob Gordon and Lisa Gaudet work to match pets to families.

Spring has arrived at the Aiken County Animal Shelter, and staff report a wide variety of dogs and cats available for adoption this week. The lineup described includes a small cattle dog, a silver Labrador, a fluffy golden shepherd mix, a silver short-haired puppy and a shepherd/hound with a Canine Good Citizen certification. Cats are present in many colors, including calico, tabby and black. Shelter staff say matching a pet's personality to a family's lifestyle is central to successful placements. Key facts: - The shelter lists several dogs this week, including a small cattle dog, silver Labrador, golden shepherd mix, silver short-haired puppy and a shepherd/hound with a Canine Good Citizen certification. - Cats are available in multiple colors, with calico, tabby and black specifically mentioned. - The adoption team runs dog playgroups every day and observes which dogs get along with others and how they behave. - Cynthia Gray began as a volunteer and is now the Adoption Coordinator recognized for matching pets with people. - Adoption counselors Bob Gordon (over a decade at the shelter) and Lisa Gaudet (with an animal control background who sometimes takes dogs home overnight) are highlighted for their roles. Summary: Shelter staff emphasize that their daily observations and close familiarity with each animal support better matches between pets and families. Undetermined at this time.