Dorchester Paws, formerly known as Frances R. Willis SPCA, is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of animals in Dorchester County, South Carolina. Dorchester Paws is the only open-admission shelter in Dorchester County, serving towns including Rosinville, Ridgeville, Oakbrook, St. George, Summerville and Grover, SC. Partnering with Dorchester Code Enforcement, we take in every lost, abandoned and abused animal and provide them with food, shelter and medical attention until they find their forever home. Our shelter was established in 1972 by Frances R. Willis with land donated by Kapstone. Dr. Brunson Westbury and Frances R. Willis worked to get the road built and land cleared to open the facility. Over the years, the shelter has been expanded, but we continue to reach and exceed our capacity because our community is growing and the pet overpopulation crisis is not abating.
Dorchester Paws works to make the best match possible between people and pets. We are always working to place animals in responsible, loving homes. When adopting an animal, a valid and current photo ID is required. Most importantly, plan to spend some time at the shelter getting to know your new pet. If you are interested in adopting a dog, an adoption counselor will take you to an outdoor pen to meet him/her. We want to make sure whomever you choose will be the right match for you. If you are adopting from Dorchester Paws, cats must leave in a carrier and dogs must leave on a leash. You may bring your own or purchase one at the shelter for a nominal charge. Plan to bring everyone who lives in your household along so they may meet your new pet! If you have a dog at home and are planning to adopt a dog, it is important to bring your pet to meet the new dog. If you rent your home, please check with your landlord before coming to Dorchester Paws to make sure you are familiar with their pet policies.