Press Release
By Nassau County Board of County Commissioners
8/21/25
Nassau County, Florida, August 21, 2025 – The Board of County Commissioners is
pleased to announce that Best Friends Animal Society has recognized Nassau
County Animal Services (NCAS) as a no-kill shelter for 2024. Shelters receiving this
recognition saved more than 90% of the dogs and cats in their care. NCAS has
maintained its no-kill status for ten years and while it has received recognition from
the Best Friends Animal Society at various times over the past decade, 2024 marks
the second consecutive year NCAS has been recognized for the No-Kill Shelter
Award.
Best Friends Animal Society, a leading national animal welfare organization
dedicated to ending the killing of dogs and cats in America’s shelters, commended
NCAS for achieving results that can inspire shelters across the state.
“This accomplishment represents so much more than a number. It reflects a culture
of caring and compassion. It represents a dedicated staff, committed volunteers, and
motivated supporters. It showcases innovative, thoughtful programs and
extraordinary leadership, both within the organization and throughout the broader
animal welfare movement,” stated Julie Castle, Chief Executive Officer for Best
Friends Animal Society.
NCAS uses a variety of strategies to maintain its no-kill status. Efforts include
collaborating with animal rescue groups and reuniting pets with their owners,
whenever possible. NCAS also goes and beyond to showcase adoptable animals at
adoption events throughout Northeast Florida. These events are crucial as they significantly increase the chances of finding permanent homes for animals, reducing
overcrowding and promoting the benefits of adopting. The events also create a sense
of community among animal lovers and offer opportunities for participating shelters to
educate the public about responsible pet ownership.
During Fiscal Year 2023/2024, NCAS successfully adopted 1,698 animals into loving
homes, transferred 109 animals to rescue partners, and reunited 478 pets with their
owners. NCAS also located foster families for 952 pets, providing them with a warm,
safe home while they were waiting to be adopted.
NCAS Director Tim Maguire stated, “I am incredibly proud of our employees who
work tirelessly to care for animals in need. From cleaning kennels to feeding, walking,
and bathing, these individuals give each pet the love and attention it deserves while
in our care. I also appreciate our outstanding volunteers who dedicate their time to
supporting NCAS staff and helping us achieve our mission.”
Volunteers are especially important to shelters because they assist in providing
essential care, socialization and enrichment of each pet, ultimately increasing their
adoptability. Last year, volunteers dedicated nearly 4,500 hours to NCAS. Their
efforts included walking, feeding, watering and bathing pets, washing linens, cleaning
kennels, and fostering pets that are too young to be adopted. Volunteers are the
backbone of the shelter and are critical to the success of NCAS so we greatly
appreciate them and all they do!
If you’re looking for your next pet, be sure to check out NCAS. They have pets in all
sizes, colors, and personalities. You’re sure to find the perfect match for your family!
The shelter is located at 86078 License Road in Yulee. Shelter visiting hours are
Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 11am-4pm; Wednesday from 1pm-6pm; and
Saturday and Sunday from 11am-4pm.
If you’re unable to adopt at this time but still want to make a difference, NCAS
welcomes volunteers! Visit www.nassaufl.co/NCASVolunteers today to fill out a
volunteer application and make a positive impact for the animals in our community.
