SUMMERVILLE, S.C. (WCBD) — Dorchester Paws leaders announced plans Tuesday for a new $12 million animal shelter, citing overcrowding and outdated conditions at their current 53-year-old facility.

The existing shelter was built to hold about 180 animals, but staff and volunteers are now caring for nearly 500. Executive Director April Howard said the building can no longer sustain that demand.

“Our programs are growing tremendously, but we just don’t have the space,” Howard said ahead of Tuesday’s press conference. “It is an old building that cannot keep up with the animals coming in.”

At the event, leaders revealed a construction timeline. Permits are expected to be finalized by the end of this year, with a groundbreaking in February 2026. The new facility is scheduled to be completed by

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