About Us
Our Mission
The Lenoir County SPCA (Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) is a 501c(3) nonprofit organization in Kinston, NC. We are not affiliated with nor do we receive funding from the ASPCA.
We are one of only a handful of animal shelters in NC which are run by a non-profit organization instead of that county's animal control department. We are an open-door shelter and annually accept approximately 2,500 stray, neglected, abused or surrendered animals from Lenoir County, NC. We do not limit intake based on health, temperament or age.
We receive only partial funding for shelter operations from Kinston/Lenoir County, leaving us with a significant deficit every month. The remaining expenses are paid by private donors and profit earned from our Second Chances Thrift Store.
Our staff and volunteers work tirelessly to place animals in loving homes through adoption, and reputable rescue partners.
Our small shelter receives an average of 7 new homeless pets every day. Please spay & neuter!
Our Philosophy
We are an open-door shelter and annually accept approximately 2,500 stray, neglected or surrendered animals from Lenoir County, North Carolina. We do not limit this intake based on health, temperament or age. This means that at any given time we have an in-shelter/in-foster dog population of 40 to 60 dogs and a combination in-shelter/in-foster cat population of 50-75 cats. Each of these animals is treated with respect, kindness and compassion throughout their stay with us.
The health of an animal is determined by both its physical and mental state, and therefore we subscribe to the philosophy that good animal welfare involves both physical fitness and a sense of well-being. Companion animals depend on us for their care, and it is our responsibility as intelligent, compassionate human beings to prevent unnecessary suffering for the creatures in our society which cannot care for themselves. We believe in the Five Freedoms, created by the UK Farm Animal Welfare Council and adopted by reputable animal welfare organizations world-wide.
The Five Freedoms
Freedom from hunger or thirst by ready access to fresh water and a diet to maintain full health and vigour.
Freedom from discomfort by providing an appropriate environment including shelter and a comfortable resting area.
Freedom from pain, injury or disease by prevention or rapid diagnosis and treatment.
Freedom to express (most) normal behavior by providing sufficient space, proper facilities and company of the animal's own kind.
Freedom from fear and distress by ensuring conditions and treatment which avoid mental suffering.
Lenoir County SPCA