Hallie Hill News | Hallie Hill Animal Sanctuary

Christine Hasto

Aug 10, 2026

Christine is honored to join the Hallie Hill Board of Directors and looks forward to supporting the organization’s mission and helping guide its work forward.

Animals have always held a place in her family as far more than pets. The first dog she and her husband adopted was a rescue puppy who stayed by their side for fourteen years, teaching their children responsibility, compassion, and respect for life. Christine believes deeply in what animals give back to the families lucky enough to take them in, and she is grateful for the chance to take part in helping more animals and people find companionship with each other. These days their household includes a beagle and a corgi, both with strong opinions about dinnertime.

Christine moved to Charleston in February of 2025 with her husband. Rochester, NY was where she was born and raised, graduating from SUNY Geneseo with a degree in Psychology/Sociology. After years spent in Denver, Indianapolis, and Northern Virginia, she is delighted to finally call Charleston home.

After raising a family and working in Human Resources, education, and the medical field, Christine became a licensed Realtor® with Keller Williams, now building a real estate business of her own in the city she’s happy to call home for good. In her free time, she enjoys pursuing lifelong interests in American history and travel.

August’s Adorable Adoptables

Aug 10, 2026

Every animal at Hallie Hill has a story, a personality, and a unique way of making people fall in love. This month, we are shining the spotlight on four wonderful animals who are ready to meet potential adopters and begin the next chapter of their lives.

From affectionate senior cats to a playful young dog, August’s Adorable Adoptables offer something special for many different kinds of homes. Could one of them be the companion you have been waiting for?

Alfredo

Domestic Shorthair, 13 years old

Alfredo is a friendly senior cat who has come a long way since arriving at Hallie Hill as a thin stray. Today, he is a happy, easygoing gentleman who enjoys spending his time relaxing and keeping his caregivers company.

His favorite activity is lounging on a desk while someone works nearby. Alfredo does not need constant entertainment to feel content. He simply appreciates a comfortable place to rest and the companionship of someone he trusts.

Alfredo is diabetic, and his condition has been difficult to regulate. A specialist suspects that an intestinal issue may be affecting his body’s ability to process insulin. His adopter will need to be prepared to continue managing his medical care and working closely with a veterinarian.

For the right person, Alfredo could be a loving companion and a wonderful addition to a quiet, caring home.

Radar

Domestic Shorthair, 5 years old

Radar arrived at Hallie Hill with his much shyer sister, Echo. While Echo prefers to take her time getting comfortable, Radar is usually happy to greet visitors at the Cattery and make his presence known.

This friendly tabby has a loud purr and an even bigger personality. Once Radar decides he would like your attention, he may roll over and invite you to give him a full belly rub. He is curious, intelligent, and always interested in what is happening around him.

Radar is ready to find a home where he can receive plenty of affection, explore his surroundings, and continue charming everyone he meets.

Boone

Terrier mix, 9 months old

Boone is a sweet young dog with plenty of love to give. He has done well with the other dogs he has met and absolutely adores people. When Boone makes a new friend, his first instinct is often to get as close as possible and enjoy a good snuggle.

He walks well on a leash and appears to know a few basic commands, including “sit.” Treats are not always enough to hold his attention, but toys can be a great source of motivation during training. With patience, consistency, and encouragement, Boone has the potential to continue learning and growing into a wonderful companion.

Boone came to Hallie Hill from a crowded shelter. Now, he is ready for a family who can give him the love, guidance, and security every young dog deserves.

Eve

Foxhound, 5 years old

Eve came to Hallie Hill as the devoted mother of nine puppies. After spending so much time caring for her little ones, it is finally Eve’s turn to be cherished.

Sweet-natured and gentle, Eve has a warm personality and a positive spirit. She is ready to discover what life can be like as someone’s beloved companion, complete with comfortable places to rest, kind hands, and a family of her own.

Eve will need to be treated for heartworms before heading to her new home. Her future adopter should be prepared to support her through that process and give her the time she needs to recover.

After caring so lovingly for her puppies, Eve deserves a home where she can receive that same devotion in return.

Meet Your New Best Friend at Hallie Hill

Adoption is about finding the right match for both the animal and the adopter. Every pet featured here has different needs, but each one has the potential to bring companionship, comfort, and joy to the right home.

Ready to meet Alfredo, Radar, Boone, Eve, or another adoptable animal at Hallie Hill? Visit HallieHill.com to complete an adoption application and schedule a visit.

Your next best friend may already be waiting for you.

Affordable Veterinary Care Returns to Hallie Hill This August

Aug 3, 2026

Hallie Hill Animal Sanctuary is pleased to welcome PETSinc back for another Affordable Mobile Veterinary Clinic on Thursday, August 20, 2026.

These monthly clinics provide an accessible way for local pet families to receive wellness services, vaccinations, testing, preventative care, and spay or neuter procedures close to home. We are deeply grateful to the PETSinc team for continuing to partner with Hallie Hill and bring this valuable service to our community.

Celebrating a Successful July Clinic

Our July clinic was another wonderful day of care and connection at the Sanctuary.

During the clinic, the PETSinc team completed:

26 surgeries
32 wellness visits

Each appointment helped a dog or cat receive important care while giving their family access to professional veterinary services at affordable prices.

We are thankful to everyone who attended and trusted the PETSinc team with their pets. We are especially grateful to the veterinary professionals and support staff who worked throughout the day to make the clinic run smoothly.

Their compassion, skill, and dedication continue to make a meaningful difference for animals and the people who love them.

Join Us on August 20

The August PETSinc Mobile Veterinary Clinic will take place at Hallie Hill Animal Sanctuary on Thursday, August 20.

Date: Thursday, August 20, 2026
Wellness hours: 11 am-2 pm
Location: Hallie Hill Animal Sanctuary
Address: 5604 New Road, Hollywood, SC 29449

No appointment is needed for wellness services.

Available services include wellness exams, vaccinations, bloodwork, testing, microchipping, deworming, heartworm prevention, flea and tick prevention, ear cleaning, nail trims, and more.

Please review the event flyer for individual services, pricing, and additional information.

Spay and Neuter Appointments

Spay and neuter procedures are available by advance registration. Cats and dogs may be eligible for surgery beginning at 3 months old, with pricing based on the animal’s species, sex, and weight.

Appointments are limited, so advance registration is encouraged for anyone planning to schedule a procedure.

Register for a surgery appointment here:
https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0945AAAB29A3F8CE9-64850270-hallie?useFullSite=true#/

A Partnership That Supports Our Community

Hallie Hill is proud to host these clinics and help connect local pet families with affordable veterinary care.

We cannot thank PETSinc enough for their continued partnership. Month after month, their team brings knowledge, compassion, and high-quality care directly to our community. Their work helps pets stay healthier while giving families convenient access to services that support long-term wellness.

We look forward to welcoming PETSinc, local pet families, and their four-legged companions back to Hallie Hill on August 20.

Caring for Your Cat’s Claws: When Trimming May Be Helpful

Jul 28, 2026

This blog was inspired by “Trimming Your Cat’s Claws” from International Cat Care. We are grateful to International Cat Care and the article’s author for sharing thoughtful, practical information that helps the animal community better understand feline needs.

A cat’s claws are an important part of who they are. Cats use them to climb, stretch, play, explore, defend themselves, and move confidently through their environment. For many healthy and active cats, regular access to appropriate scratching surfaces helps keep their claws in good condition naturally.

Because claws serve so many essential purposes, routine trimming is not necessary for every cat. However, there are times when a little extra care may be helpful.

When Might a Cat Need a Claw Trim?

Older cats may have difficulty maintaining their claws as they become less active or flexible. Cats with mobility challenges, arthritis, injuries, or certain medical conditions may also scratch less frequently and need additional help.

Without enough natural wear, claws can become long, thick, or curved. In more serious cases, an overgrown claw may curl toward the paw pad, causing discomfort and potentially leading to injury.

It is a good idea to check your cat’s paws regularly, especially if they are a senior or have limited mobility. Look for claws that appear unusually long, catch frequently on blankets or carpet, or begin curving toward the paw pad. The dewclaws, which are located higher on the inside of the front legs, deserve particular attention because they do not make contact with the ground as often.

Creating Healthy Scratching Opportunities

Before reaching for the clippers, make sure your cat has access to suitable scratching surfaces. Scratching is a normal and necessary feline behavior, not a bad habit.

Offer sturdy scratching posts and pads in different materials and orientations. Some cats prefer to stretch upward against a tall post, while others enjoy scratching horizontally along the floor. Placing scratchers near sleeping areas, favorite gathering spots, or furniture your cat already visits can make them more appealing.

How to Approach Claw Trimming

Claw trimming should always be approached calmly and patiently. Choose a quiet moment when your cat is comfortable and relaxed. Begin by gently handling their paws without trying to trim anything. Offering treats, praise, or another favorite reward can help create a positive association.

When your cat is ready, use clippers designed for feline claws and remove only the sharp tip. Avoid the pink area inside the claw, known as the quick, because it contains blood vessels and nerves.

There is no need to trim every claw in one sitting. For some cats, clipping one or two claws at a time is much more comfortable. Short, positive sessions are better than forcing your cat through an experience that causes fear or stress.

Instructional videos from trusted feline care organizations are also available online and can help demonstrate safe handling and trimming techniques.

If your cat strongly resists, has very thick or overgrown claws, or appears to be in pain, contact your veterinarian. A veterinary professional or experienced cat groomer can provide assistance and show you how to care for your cat’s claws safely.

Comfort Comes First

Every cat is different. Some will rarely need their claws trimmed, while others may benefit from regular assistance as they grow older or experience changes in mobility.

The goal is not to keep a cat’s claws as short as possible. It is to support their comfort, health, and ability to enjoy natural feline behaviors. With regular observation, appropriate scratching options, and a gentle approach, you can help keep your cat’s paws healthy throughout every stage of life.

We encourage cat families to read the original International Cat Care article on trimming your cat’s claws for additional insight. Thank you to International Cat Care and the contributing author for sharing this helpful resource with animal lovers and caregivers.

Laps for Love 2026

Jul 24, 2026

Laps for Love is BACK on August 15, 2026! Join us for some fun in the sun as swimmers raise money for the animals of Hallie Hill Animal Sanctuary! What started as a simple fundraiser has now become an annual tradition, and a time for the community and rescue to come together. Laps for Love is about more than just swimming, it is about making sure each and every animal in Hallie Hill Animal Sanctuary’s care is able to get access to the care they need. Since 1988, Hallie Hill has been on a mission to protect and rehome dogs and cats in the Charleston Area. In an effort to help Charleston become no-kill, any animals that cannot be adopted can take permanent residence at the sanctuary so that they can live out their days in freedom and surrounded by loving staff and volunteers. In 2025 alone, Hallie Hill Animal Sanctuary took in 173 new animals and adopted 129 animals. But Hallie Hill’s mission does not stop with the animals in their care. In 2025, they administered 165 vaccinations to animals and provided flea and tick prevention to 417 animals. By joining us for Laps for Love, you are doing more than just donating money or swimming. Every dollar supports continuing the mission of Hallie Hill Animal Sanctuary and helping them provide for the over 200 animals in their care. If you would like to donate, click here .

Looking for ways to participate? Sign up to swim! Swimmers of all skill levels are allowed to participate and make a difference one lap at a time. Swimmers will help by gathering funds online for the sanctuary, as well as participating in the event. Don’t want to swim? Support our swimmers financially by clicking here ! Every dollar counts, and you can support the swimmer of your choice or all of our swimmers.
If you have questions or want to get involved, please email mike@halliehill.com .

Christmas in July: Give the Gift of Comfort This Summer

Jul 13, 2026

2HD_2026 Christmas in July for Social Media (1)

The holiday season is all about giving, and this July, we’re celebrating that spirit a little early.

Hallie Hill Animal Sanctuary is excited to partner with 2 Hounds Design for their Christmas in July campaign, a month-long opportunity that helps provide comfortable, high-quality gear for the dogs in our care.

Throughout July 1 through July 31, every donation made through the program is matched with even more supplies, meaning each gift goes even further to support rescue dogs.

Here’s how it works:

Option 1

You donate 3 items
2 Hounds Design donates 4 more
Hallie Hill receives 7 items

Option 2

You donate 6 items
2 Hounds Design donates 7 more
Hallie Hill receives 13 items

Those extra collars, leashes, harnesses, and other essentials help us care for the many dogs who call Hallie Hill home while they wait for their forever families. Having properly fitting, durable equipment makes a meaningful difference in their daily care, enrichment, walks, and veterinary visits.

We are incredibly grateful to 2 Hounds Design for their continued generosity and for creating a program that multiplies the impact of every donation. Partnerships like these help provide comfort, safety, and dignity for the animals we serve.

Most of all, we’re thankful for the compassionate community that continues to support Hallie Hill in so many ways. Every act of kindness, whether big or small, helps make our mission possible.

If you’d like to learn more about the Christmas in July campaign or participate before July 31, visit the 2 Hounds Design donation page and select Hallie Hill Animal Sanctuary as your rescue organization. Together, we’re helping more tails wag this summer.

July’s Adorable Adoptables: Four Wonderful Friends Ready to Meet You

Jul 6, 2026

Every animal at Hallie Hill has a story, but what we love sharing most is who they are today.
This month, we are introducing four wonderful residents, each with a personality all their own. Whether you are looking for a playful companion, a curious explorer, or a loyal friend, these special animals are ready to make meaningful connections with the right family.

Meet Sebastian

At 12 years young, Sebastian proves that age is just a number.

This cheerful terrier mix still has plenty of energy for playtime and loves making new friends wherever he goes. His bright smile and one-of-a-kind markings are hard to forget, but it is his happy spirit that truly shines. Sebastian is the kind of dog who brings joy to everyday moments and reminds us that there is always room for fun.

Meet Aspen

Aspen is as adventurous as she is beautiful.

This 3-year-old Husky mix is playful, curious, and happiest when she has room to explore. One of her favorite pastimes is spending time around the pond, where she can enjoy the outdoors and satisfy her adventurous spirit. If you are looking for a companion who loves fresh air, activity, and discovering new things, Aspen may be a wonderful match.

Meet Chunky

Do not let the name fool you.

Chunky is an adventurous 8-year-old domestic longhair with an impressive talent for climbing and exploring. She confidently navigates the shelves in our cattery and enjoys keeping an eye on everything happening around her. Equal parts curious and confident, Chunky has a quiet charm that makes her a delight to spend time with.

Meet Dr. Frank

Dr. Frank may be small, but his personality is anything but.

This playful orange tabby kitten is full of curiosity and loves making the most of the enrichment opportunities throughout the cattery. Every day is an adventure for Dr. Frank, whether he is chasing toys, exploring a new corner, or charming everyone he meets with his bright eyes and playful spirit. These joyful kitten months are filled with discovery, and he is ready to share them with a loving family.

Come Meet July’s Adorable Adoptables

Every adoption begins with a simple introduction.

If one of these wonderful animals feels like the right fit for your home, we would love to welcome you to Hallie Hill to meet them. Sometimes the perfect connection begins with a visit, a wagging tail, or a gentle purr.

To learn more about Sebastian, Aspen, Chunky, Dr. Frank, and all of our adoptable animals, visit HallieHill.com and complete an adoption application. We look forward to helping you find the companion who feels like family.

Affordable Veterinary Care Returns to Hallie Hill on July 16

Jun 29, 2026

At Hallie Hill Animal Sanctuary, we believe every pet deserves access to quality veterinary care. That is why we are so grateful to partner with PETSinc Affordable Mobile Veterinary Unit each month to bring affordable wellness services and surgeries directly to our community.

Thanks to your incredible support, our June clinic was another tremendous success. Together, Hallie Hill and PETSinc provided 31 surgeries and 32 wellness visits, helping dozens of local pets receive the care they need to live healthier, happier lives. We are proud to continue making veterinary care more accessible for families across our community.

Our next clinic will take place on Thursday, July 16, 2026, at Hallie Hill Animal Sanctuary.

Wellness Clinic

11:00 AM to 2:00 PM

No appointment is needed for wellness services, making it easy to stop by for routine preventive care.

Services available include:

Vaccinations for dogs and cats
Heartworm testing
FELV/FIV testing
Microchipping
Flea, tick, and heartworm prevention
Deworming
Bloodwork
Ear cytology
Skin scrapes
Nail trims and ear cleanings
Osteoarthritis injections
Exams and much more

Low Cost Spay and Neuter Surgeries

Spay and neuter appointments are available for pets as young as three months old and must be reserved in advance.

To schedule your pet’s surgery, please sign up here:
https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0945AAAB29A3F8CE9-64557824-hallie

Helping prevent unwanted litters is one of the most effective ways we can work together to reduce pet overpopulation while improving the long-term health of dogs and cats throughout our community.

We are incredibly thankful to the dedicated team at PETSinc for making these monthly clinics possible and for their continued commitment to serving pets and the people who love them. Their partnership allows us to extend our mission beyond the sanctuary and provide affordable veterinary care to families who need it most.

We look forward to seeing you and your pets on Thursday, July 16, at Hallie Hill Animal Sanctuary, located at 5604 New Road in Hollywood, SC. If you have any questions, please call 803-608-3248.

Together, we are building a healthier future for pets across the Lowcountry.

Volunteer Spotlight: Celebrating Dave and Lynn Rosato

Jun 22, 2026

At Hallie Hill Animal Sanctuary, our mission is made possible by the incredible people who give their time, talents, and hearts to the animals in our care. Every volunteer plays an important role, but this month, we are especially honored to recognize two individuals whose impact can be felt across nearly every corner of the Sanctuary: Dave and Lynn Rosato.

Since joining the Hallie Hill family in 2015, Lynn has become one of our most dedicated and recognizable volunteers. Many of our supporters eagerly await the arrival of The Howler each month, but what many may not realize is the tremendous amount of work that happens behind the scenes to bring that newsletter to life. Lynn has been the driving force behind The Howler for years, carefully assembling updates, stories, event information, and animal success stories that keep our community connected to the Sanctuary.

Her commitment extends far beyond the written page.

If you’ve seen Hallie Hill featured on local television, chances are you’ve also seen Lynn. As one of our most enthusiastic ambassadors, she regularly helps introduce adoptable animals to the community, giving them a chance to shine in front of potential adopters. Whether she is sharing their stories on air, helping at community events, or lending a hand wherever needed, Lynn consistently steps forward when Hallie Hill calls.

From setting up tents and tables to baking homemade treats for Sanctuary events, she approaches every task with the same energy, compassion, and dedication that have made her such a valued member of our volunteer family.

Of course, Lynn is only half of a remarkable team.

Behind many of the scenes at Hallie Hill is Dave, whose talents and willingness to tackle any project have helped keep the Sanctuary running smoothly for years. Whether he is repairing equipment, working on facility improvements, maintaining the security system, or putting his carpentry skills to work, Dave is often the person making sure important projects get done.

His practical expertise and can-do attitude have benefited both our staff and our animals in countless ways. If something needs fixing, building, or improving, Dave is usually ready to roll up his sleeves and get to work.

Outside of Hallie Hill, Dave also serves as president of the British Car Club of Charleston and plays a key role in organizing the automobile portion of our annual Animals, Art & Automobiles fundraiser, helping create another meaningful opportunity to support the Sanctuary and the animals who call it home.

As if their volunteer contributions were not enough, Dave and Lynn have also opened their hearts and home to Hallie Hill animals through adoption. Their family includes four beloved Hallie Hill cats: Tinkerbelle, Stono, Zoey, and Finn. Each one is a reminder of the life-changing impact adoption can have, both for animals and for the people who love them.

Volunteers are the heartbeat of Hallie Hill. From hands-on animal care and facility maintenance to events, fundraising, transportation, and community outreach, volunteers help ensure every animal receives the love, attention, and support they deserve.

Dave and Lynn embody the very best of what volunteerism means. They give generously of their time, share their talents without hesitation, and continually advocate for animals in need. Their contributions have helped strengthen Hallie Hill’s mission and improve the lives of countless dogs and cats over the years.

To Dave and Lynn, thank you. Thank you for your compassion, your dedication, your hard work, and your unwavering commitment to the animals of Hallie Hill. We are deeply grateful for everything you do, and we are proud to celebrate you as this month’s Volunteer Spotlight.

If you have ever considered volunteering at Hallie Hill, we encourage you to get involved. Every hour donated, every skill shared, and every act of kindness helps create brighter futures for the animals who depend on us.

Interested in becoming a volunteer? Learn more about volunteer opportunities at Hallie Hill and discover how you can make a difference in the lives of our animals

More Than a Cozy Spot: Why Cats Need Daily Enrichment

Jun 15, 2026

This article was inspired by and adapted from “Thriving, Not Surviving: Why Every Cat Needs Daily Enrichment” by the team at Asheville Humane Society. We are grateful for their thoughtful insights and encourage readers to explore the full article here: https://www.ashevillehumane.org/thriving-not-surviving-why-every-cat-needs-daily-enrichment/

At Hallie Hill Animal Sanctuary, we believe every animal deserves more than just the basics. Food, water, shelter, and veterinary care are essential, but true well-being goes beyond meeting physical needs. For cats especially, enrichment plays a vital role in helping them live happy, healthy, and fulfilling lives.

Cats are natural hunters, climbers, explorers, and problem-solvers. Even the most relaxed house cat still carries those instincts. When cats do not have opportunities to engage their minds and bodies, boredom and frustration can begin to affect both their behavior and overall health.

Why Enrichment Matters

Many behaviors that people view as “bad habits” can actually be signs that a cat is under-stimulated. Excessive scratching, nighttime vocalization, overgrooming, or withdrawing from family interactions may all indicate that a cat needs more opportunities for engagement and activity.

Just like people, cats benefit from mental challenges, physical exercise, and environmental variety. Enrichment helps reduce stress, builds confidence, and allows cats to express natural behaviors in healthy ways.

Simple Ways to Enrich Your Cat’s Life

The good news is that enrichment does not have to be complicated or expensive. Small changes can make a big difference.

Create Vertical Space

Cats love to observe their surroundings from above. Cat trees, shelves, window perches, and climbing structures allow them to satisfy their natural desire to climb and survey their environment.

Make Playtime Interactive

A few minutes of interactive play each day can go a long way. Wand toys, feather toys, and other activities that mimic hunting help keep cats physically active while strengthening their bond with their people.

Keep Things Fresh

Rotating toys every few days can make old favorites feel new again. Novelty helps prevent boredom and keeps curious minds engaged.

Turn Meals Into Adventures

Puzzle feeders and treat-dispensing toys encourage cats to problem-solve while tapping into their natural hunting instincts. Mealtime becomes both rewarding and mentally stimulating.

Engage Their Senses

Catnip, silvervine, new textures, and safe window views can provide valuable sensory experiences that enrich a cat’s daily routine.

Offer Safe Outdoor Experiences

Secure catios, screened porches, or window perches can allow cats to safely observe birds, insects, and the outdoors without the risks associated with free roaming.

Helping Newly Adopted Cats Feel at Home

Enrichment can be especially important for cats transitioning into a new home. New sights, sounds, smells, and routines can feel overwhelming at first.

Providing hiding spaces, climbing opportunities, interactive toys, and predictable play sessions can help newly adopted cats build confidence and feel more secure in their surroundings. These simple tools often make the adjustment process smoother and less stressful for both cats and their families.

Small Changes, Big Impact

One of the greatest gifts we can give our feline companions is the opportunity to thrive. Enrichment supports their mental health, encourages physical activity, reduces stress, and helps create a more rewarding life.

Whether you’ve shared your home with a cat for years or recently welcomed a new feline friend, taking a few extra steps to enrich their environment can have a lasting impact on their well-being.

We are grateful to Asheville Humane Society for sharing this important information with animal lovers everywhere. To read their full article and explore additional enrichment ideas, please visit: https://www.ashevillehumane.org/thriving-not-surviving-why-every-cat-needs-daily-enrichment/

At Hallie Hill, we are passionate about helping animals not only survive, but truly thrive.