MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (WBTW) —The Grand Strand and Florence Area humane societies have long been recognized for their fostering programs, which facilitate the temporary care of dogs and cats, offering a crucial lifeline for animals in need. Those interested can easily sign up to foster pets through a simple online application process. While fostering is a fantastic option for individuals who are unable to adopt, a less conventional initiative, known as the barn cat program, is making significant strides in saving lives.
This innovative approach, featured in our local area, is spearheaded by the Humane Society of Marlboro County in Bennettsville. The barn cat program is specifically designed for feral cats, a category of animals that cannot be adopted into traditional homes due to their unsocialized nature and preference for outdoor environments.
Under this program, feral cats that enter the county shelter are spared from euthanasia. These cats undergo spaying or neutering, receive vaccinations, and are then placed in barns where they are provided with essential care—food, water, and shelter. The concept behind this initiative is to offer these animals a functional role rather than a conventional pet experience.
Barn cats can be adopted, but they are intended for environments such as barns, stables, garages, or warehouses where they can contribute as “working” cats. This arrangement not only ensures that the feral cats are protected from harsh weather conditions but also helps adopters manage rodent problems effectively. This unique adoption model fosters a symbiotic relationship between the cats and their new environments, demonstrating a practical solution for managing both animal welfare and pest control.
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