WINNSBORO – Every day, dogs and cats in Fairfield County find themselves in need of care, compassion, and a second chance. Hearts Unleashed, a new 501(c)(3) nonprofit based in Winnsboro, was created to provide exactly that.

Founded to support the Fairfield County Animal Control and Adoption Center, the organization works side by side with county staff and rescue partners to increase adoptions, expand rescue pulls, provide transport when needed, recruit volunteers, build a stronger foster network, raise essential funds, maintain the shelter’s Amazon Wish List, increase community engagement, and improve daily living conditions and outcomes for animals in the shelter’s care.

From coordinating rescue placements and medical treatment to organizing fundraisers and volunteer initiatives, Hearts Unleashed has one goal: to ensure that every animal in Fairfield County is given the opportunity for a better life.

As part of this effort, the organization recently launched an exciting new program called Doggie Daycation.

This initiative allows volunteers and members of the public to pick up a shelter dog for a few hours—or even for an overnight stay. It gives the dog a much-needed break from the shelter environment, time to decompress, and one-on-one human interaction.

In return, participants – both the dog and the person – enjoy a wonderful adventure. It’s a great time to capture photos and videos of the dogs enjoying everyday life, helping potential adopters see their true personalities outside the kennel.

Hearts Unleashed was recently awarded a $1,000 grant from the Petfinder Foundation to support the Doggie Daycation program. Funds will be used to outfit dogs with “Adopt Me” vests, collars, leashes, and safety equipment like travel crates and seatbelt tethers.

Each participant will also receive supplies including treats, food, and toys for their Daycation companion—whether the outing involves a walk downtown, a car ride in the country, or quiet snuggles at home.

“Our mission is simple,” says Founder and President Heather Feltner, who also serves as Volunteer Rescue Coordinator for the Fairfield County Animal Control and Adoption Center. “We’re here to fully support the shelter, the shelter team of employees, and most importantly, the animals in their care. Every donation, every volunteer hour, every transport, every foster, and every adoption makes a difference.”

Formally approved as a nonprofit organization on August 13, 2025, Hearts Unleashed has already made an impressive impact. In just two and a half months, the group has assisted the shelter team with 20 adoptions and facilitated the transfer of 234 animals to rescue partners.

The organization has also collaborated with the shelter to host the “Paws for a Cause” fundraiser, collecting over $3,000 for enrichment projects benefiting shelter animals and resulted in adoptions. They have participated in community events such as Pig on the Ridge and will participate in the upcoming Winnsboro Christmas Parade.

Hearts Unleashed also advocates for improved county animal ordinances, shelter conditions, and expanded support for spay/neuter programs, low-cost vaccinations, and heartworm treatment — vital steps toward reducing overpopulation and improving animal health countywide.

To learn more, become a foster or volunteer, or make a donation, visit www.heartsunleashed.org, email info@heartsunleashed.org, or call (803) 571-4623. Tax-deductible donations can also be made securely through the Zeffy platform.