In Hattiesburg, Mississippi, Southern Pines Animal Shelter celebrates 10 years of being a no-kill shelter, demonstrating how dedicated community support and smart strategies can save lives.
- Achieved 97.5% save rate in 2025
- Affordable $25 spay/neuter surgeries for cats
- Successful adoption partnerships expand community reach
What happened
Southern Pines Animal Shelter, located in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, has celebrated a decade since reaching its no-kill milestone, saving more than 90% of the pets it takes in. The shelter’s journey began when it struggled with limited resources and only a 20% save rate back in 2010. Over the years, significant improvements in shelter operations, driven by a dedicated team and community support, transformed it into a national model for lifesaving animal care.
The shelter’s impact is seen in stories like that of Linus, an English bulldog who arrived as a severely disabled puppy in 2017. With foster care, specialized support, and even a wheelchair, Linus was given a second chance at life and was adopted twice. Southern Pines’ consistent goal has been to provide all pets with the care and love needed to find forever homes.
Why it feels good
This achievement is inspiring not only because of the numbers but due to the shelter’s holistic and compassionate approach. Southern Pines has united community outreach, education, and affordable veterinary care to remove barriers that often prevent pets from being adopted or cared for properly. Their $25 spay and neuter surgeries for cats make critical preventive care accessible, directly helping control overpopulation.
Educational campaigns like the viral kitten season awareness program have helped shift perceptions and practices, ensuring vulnerable young kittens remain safe with their mothers. Moreover, the dedication of shelter staff, including longtime leaders like Amanda Paris, has cultivated a culture where pets’ wellbeing is the central mission, strengthening connections between the shelter and the local community.
What to enjoy or watch next
Mississippi’s recognition of January as Mississippi Loves Shelter Animals Month highlights the state's growing support for shelters like Southern Pines. This is an excellent time for pet lovers to explore local shelters, support fundraisers, or consider adopting a pet needing a home. The partnership between Southern Pines and PetSmart is especially notable, as it extends the shelter’s reach and offers increased adoption opportunities beyond the shelter walls.
Looking forward, Southern Pines plans to continue improving its programs and expanding community involvement. Pet adopters and supporters can follow the shelter’s activities through social channels and participate in creative campaigns that both entertain and educate. For those inspired by stories like Linus’s, volunteering, fostering, or donating can provide rewarding ways to make a difference in the lives of animals in need.