Animal Services

In Emanuel County, caring for our four-legged friends isn’t just a “pet” project—it’s a full-fledged team effort! Animal Services brings together the best resources from Emanuel County, the City of Swainsboro, the local animal shelter, and the volunteers of our local humane society. Together, we’re working to keep tails wagging, paws safe, and our neighborhoods secure.

Unlike the more centralized animal services systems found in many places, Emanuel County’s approach combines the strengths of multiple local agencies and community resources. By partnering across county and city lines with the support of both government and volunteer organizations, we create a powerful network that optimizes resources and expands the reach of animal welfare efforts in ways that wouldn’t be possible alone.

Both the county and the city contribute to funding and oversight, each responsible for managing animal-related concerns within their jurisdictions. The county addresses animal issues primarily in rural areas, where code enforcement officers and sheriff’s deputies respond to animal crises. This includes handling calls about stray or dangerous dogs, responding to reports of abuse and neglect, and ensuring community safety. Meanwhile, the City of Swainsboro oversees animal services within city limits, where shelter staff manage strays and other animal-related incidents. Together, these entities provide the foundational support that allows the shelter to operate effectively.

At the operational core of Animal Services is the Betty Gambrell Animal Shelter, which houses and cares for dogs in need. The shelter team handles daily care, responding to animals in crisis, and managing strays within city limits while collaborating closely with county departments on cases outside city borders.

In 2020, the county proudly funded a $100,000 project using SPLOST funds to overhaul the animal shelter, transforming it into a more comfortable and efficient space for both dogs and staff. This renovation increased the shelter’s capacity and included several essential upgrades: new concrete slabs for the kennel runs, secure chain-link wiring for enclosures, and a new roof and upgraded plumbing. Rotten wood was replaced, fresh coats of paint applied, and new lights, doors, and heating and air units were installed on both sides of the building as well. Additionally, the facility now features a raised bathtub, making dog baths easier for both canines and shelter staff, along with updated bathroom fixtures. To improve safety, the entire building was rewired to meet current codes, and new metal fascia was installed across the exterior. These improvements, along with amenities like dog cots, warm bedding, and proper feeding equipment (including food bowls and lick-spout water bottles), ensure that every animal in the shelter’s care is housed in a safe, comfortable environment.

As for the Emanuel County Humane Society—they're independent of direct governmental control, but they provide invaluable support to the shelter in numerous ways. They assist with fostering programs, community education, and additional resources that significantly impact the shelter's ability to save and rehome dogs. Through their efforts, the humane society helps prevent euthanasia by networking dogs in the local paper and connecting with no-kill shelters and potential adopters. Their fundraising initiatives play a crucial role as well, with donations supporting waived foster fees, spay and neuter costs, and other essential services.

In addition to their ongoing support, the humane society organizes adoption events—like the popular "Paws with Claus" around the holidays—that connect dogs with loving homes and raise awareness for animal welfare. Working hand-in-hand with the shelter, the Emanuel County Humane Society is committed to expanding the reach and impact of local animal care.

Together, these entities form a network that prioritizes animal welfare and community safety, each fulfilling a specific role within a seamless system.