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Nassau County, Florida

Welcome to beautiful Nassau County, located in the northeast corner of Florida along the Atlantic Ocean and Interstate 95. We are proud to serve as the Eastern Gateway to the Sunshine State. From our historic island, sandy beaches, and championship golf courses to our scenic rivers, green pastures, and majestic timberlands, we truly offer something for everyone.

Jacksonville Pet Adoption Festival

10/22/2025

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10/22/25 @ 12:30 p.m.

​Join Nassau County Animal Services for the Jacksonville Pet Adoption Festival on October 25 & 26, 2025, from 10 AM – 6 PM at the Prime Osborn Convention Center (1000 Water St, Jacksonville, FL).
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Eight amazing local shelters are coming together  with hundreds of adorable dogs, cats, puppies, and kittens, all waiting to find their forever homes.

Festival Highlights:
 - Free adoptions (yes, you read that right!)
 - Free parking
- Convenient downtown location
- Endless tail wags, purrs, and happy hearts

Don’t miss your chance to meet your new best friend!

Please note that the NCAS facility will be closed on October 25 & 26 as personnel will be at the festival helping pets find their people!

-Sabrina Robertson
 Communications Officer

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SETTING THE RECORD STRAIGHT: FALSE ALLEGATIONS AGAINST NASSAU COUNTY ANIMAL SERVICES

10/9/2025

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10/9/25 @ 3:45 p.m.

​Nassau County BOCC staff are aware that a recent social media post has circulated claiming that the vendor who provides mobile veterinary services to Nassau County Animal Services (NCAS) is in breach of their contract with the County. The post originated from the Facebook Page “Nassau Voices for Animals & Shelter Reform” and has been reshared on multiple local pages by a former NCAS volunteer. These allegations are categorically false. The vendor is not in breach of their contract, and there are no “serious discrepancies”, as alleged. Rather, Nassau County’s mobile veterinarian is a valued partner of NCAS in providing necessary surgeries and other medical services to animals at the shelter.

It is necessary that the false allegations against Nassau County and NCAS’s valued partner are addressed directly and clearly as the allegations go beyond misunderstanding the contract. It makes baseless accusations of fraud against Nassau County staff and NCAS’s mobile veterinarian, which we cannot leave uncorrected. Their claims are not accurate, as further substantiated in detail here on our webpage. 

It is extremely disappointing and unfortunate that individuals chose to forgo constructive dialogue with county staff prior to posting false allegations. The details of the contract and the vendor’s services would have been explained and would have quickly dispelled any misunderstandings. Open dialogue helps resolve issues, improve services, and ensure the best outcomes for the animals in NCAS care.

Unfounded inflammatory posts on social media, however, are not productive. They undermine public trust, harm staff morale, and can potentially cause organizations and vendors, like NCAS’s valued mobile veterinarian, to question whether they want to partner with NCAS in the future if they, too, could be defamed online. This in turn impacts the animals that we are all here to support.

Nassau County remains committed to serving this community with integrity and compassion. If you or others would like to better understand NCAS operations, county staff are happy to provide information and answer questions directly.
Thank you for your continued support of Nassau County Animal Services and for keeping the focus where it belongs—on the well-being of the animals.

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NCAS Waives Adoptions Fees Through Sunday

10/9/2025

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10/9/25 @ 2:00 p.m.

​If you’ve been waiting for a sign to add a furry friend to your life , this is it! Kennels are full of wagging tails and heart-melting eyes waiting to meet you!

Whether your looking for a running buddy, a couch snuggler, or a partner-in-crime for weekend adventures, be sure to visit Nassau County Animal Services as they currently have 84 amazing dogs looking for homes, and 9 more that could potentially be available for adoption if not claimed.

Thanks to a generous donation, all adoptions are FREE through 4pm on Sunday October 13th.

Location: 86078 License Road, Fernandina Beach, FL (next to the DMV)

Shelter Hours:
• Tuesday, Thursday–Sunday: 11 AM – 4 PM
• Wednesday: 1 PM – 6 PM
• Closed Mondays & Holidays

Start your adoption application: nassaufl.co/NCASadoptions
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Interested in fostering? Apply here: nassaufl.co/NCASfoster
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Browse available dogs here: nassaucountyfl.com/520/Adoption-Dogs

-Sabrina Robertson
 Communications Officer

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The Dog Program

10/8/2025

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10/8/25 @ 9:00 a.m.

In July 2024, the Nassau County Extension 4-H Program partnered with Nassau County Animal Services (NCAS) to offer "The Dog Program", an 11-week course designed to educate teens ages 15-18 on the importance of responsible dog care, basic training, veterinary science, recordkeeping, and public speaking, all while working to improving the dog's chances of adoption. 

Spencer Hewitt Extension Agent I for 4-H Youth Development stated, "In this program, Officer Marty Pruitt and I 
emphasize that while our goals include helping dogs get adopted and teaching youth fundamental training techniques, our larger mission is to develop life skills. Through this experience, youth participants build resilience, confidence in public speaking, and strong communication abilities. Many youth join the program because of their interest in dog training, and the experience often helps them explore and prepare for future careers. For instance, several participants in this year’s group aspire to become veterinarians or nurses. The Dog Program provides them with hands-on programming, which is the first step to their future career, and connects them back to their community." 

Support Nassau County 4-H Youth at the Adoption Day Contest on Wednesday, October 15, 2025 at 5:30 p.m. at the Northeast Florida Fairgrounds. During this event, 6 youth will showcase their dog's new skills to the community in hopes of helping them find their fur-ever home. As part of the contest, youth will be evaluated in several areas including public speaking, handling skills, and overall knowledge. 


Join us for an evening that celebrates compassion, learning, and community. The Dog Program is not only changing the lives of shelter dogs—it’s shaping the future of Nassau County’s youth. Your presence and support make a lasting difference for both.

-Sabrina Robertson
 Communications Officer

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Nassau Night Out

9/12/2025

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9/12/25 @ 1:00 p.m. 

SAVE THE DATE!

The Nassau County Sheriff's Office is hosting Nassau Night Out on Tuesday, September 30, from 4–6 PM at Hagan Ace Hardware in Callahan!

Bring the family to check out our vehicles, snap photos, and hang out with our deputies and staff.
Meet community partners like Micah's Place, First Coast Crime Stoppers, Nassau County Fire Rescue, Starting Point Behavioral Health, Nassau County Emergency Management, and more!

Nassau County Animal Services will also be there with adoptable pets who can't wait to meet you!

Don’t miss this FREE, fun, family-friendly event! Questions? Email [email protected].

-Sabrina Robertson
 Communications Officer

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NCAS, NCFR, and Local 3101 Partner for Adoption Event

9/7/2025

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9/7/25 @ 8:30 p.m. 

The Board of County Commissioners and Nassau County Animal Services would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the International Association of Firefighters – Local 3101 (Nassau County Fire Rescue) for sponsoring this weekend’s adoption event at Petco in Yulee. Thanks to their generosity, adoption fees of up to $500 were covered, pet beds and supplies were purchased. Member of Nassau County Fire Rescue came out in person to walk dogs, interact with potential adopters, and spread the word about giving shelter pets a second chance.
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Because of their efforts, 10 animals found loving new homes! Partnerships like these make an incredible difference for our community, showing how much can be accomplished when local organizations come together for a shared cause. Local 3101 went above and beyond, not only providing financial support, but also dedicating their time and energy to help our shelter pets. We are truly grateful for their commitment to both public service and animal welfare.

-Sabrina Robertson
 Communications Officer
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Generous Donation from Nassau County Fire Rescue Professionals Local 3101

8/26/2025

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8/26/25 @ 2:15 p.m. 

At the Monday, August 25, 2025 meeting, Nassau County Fire Rescue Professionals Local 3101 made a generous donation to Imagine Nassau to support a new facility for Nassau County Animal Services. 

Imagine Nassau is the Board of County Commissioners’ (BOCC) nonprofit organization created to foster charitable and educational activities through fundraising and grants in four key areas: Nassau County Parks & Recreation, Nassau County Animal Services, Nassau County Fire Rescue, and the Conservation Land Acquisition and Management (CLAM) Program.

In December 2022, a needs assessment was conducted for a new animal shelter. The study analyzed the existing facility, explored potential future use options, and identified long-term funding strategies.  In June 2024, the BOCC closed on a 6.76-acre property on State Road 200, chosen for its central location and high visibility. 

The future new facility will provide a healthier environment for animals and expand capacity to meet future growth. Features will include separate lobbies for intakes and adoptions, adoption galleries, isolation rooms, puppy play yards, walking trails, a cattery, quarantine areas, administrative offices, and even a barn for housing large animals.
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The BOCC extends its deepest appreciation to Local 3101 for their generosity and continued commitment to the community. Their support goes beyond their service as first responders. It reflects a true dedication to improving quality of life for both residents and animals across Nassau County. This donation is an inspiring example of how community partnerships can make lasting impacts.

The future Nassau County Animal Services facility is currently being designed. Stay tuned for details on a capital campaign to support the construction.

-Sabrina Robertson
​ Communications Officer
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NCAS Welcomes New Community Engagement Specialist

8/26/2025

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8/26/25 @ 8:30 a.m.

We are excited to welcome Brad to the Nassau County Animal Services team!


In his new role as Community Engagement Specialist, Brad will oversee our social media presence, manage the NCAS website, and coordinate our volunteer program—bringing fresh energy, creativity, and expertise to each of these important areas.

If Brad looks familiar, you may recognize him from performing as a local musician or his service on the Nassau Arts & Culture Board.

With more than 16 years of experience managing radio stations nationwide, Brad brings a strong background in event planning, fundraising, media relations, and community engagement. His skills and experience will be instrumental in helping NCAS strengthen connections with our community and expand our impact.

Please join us in giving Brad a warm welcome as he helps advance our mission of serving animals and the people who love them!

-Sabrina Robertson
​ Communications Officer

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NCAS Maintains No-Kill Status in 2024

8/21/2025

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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.

-Sabrina Robertson 
​ Communications Officer
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NCAS Boutique Adoption Program

8/19/2025

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8/19/25 @ 3:45 p.m.

​At Nassau County Animal Services (NCAS), we’re rolling out the red carpet for our most unforgettable pups and kitties. The Boutique Adoption Program is curated for pets with big personalities, endearing quirks, and one-of-a-kind charm.

 
These are not your average adoptable pets. They’re the kind of companions that turn heads — full of personality, heart, and a little extra spark. Whether they’ve been overlooked, need a bit more TLC, or simply march to their own beat, each one is a truly unforgettable and original.
 
Adopting from the Boutique Adoption Program is like walking into a party knowing that no one else shares your style. It’s one-of-a-kind companionship — instant icon status.

-Sabrina Robertson
 Communications Officer
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Introducing the NCAS Boutique Adoption Program

8/7/2025

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At Nassau County Animal Services (NCAS), we’re rolling out the red carpet for our most unforgettable pups and kitties. The Boutique Adoption Program is curated for pets with big personalities, endearing quirks, and one-of-a-kind charm.
 
These are not your average adoptable pets. They’re the kind of companions that turn heads — full of personality, heart, and a little extra spark. Whether they’ve been overlooked, need a bit more TLC, or simply march to their own beat, each one is a truly unforgettable and original.
 
Adopting from the Boutique Adoption Program is like walking into a party knowing that no one else shares your style. It’s one-of-a-kind companionship — instant icon status.

-Sabrina Robertson
​ Communications Officer


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Rescuers for Rescues

7/22/2025

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7/22/25 @ 3:45 p.m. - Nassau County Fire Rescue and Nassau County Animal Services have teamed up to raise awareness about the wonderful pets waiting for their forever homes. Today, NCAS visited NCFR Station 10, where firefighters were all smiles as they spent time playing with adoptable dogs and cats. Partnerships like this highlight our County's commitment to caring for animals in need. 

We appreciate the efforts of NCAS for caring for animals at the shelter and doing all they can to find them safe, happy homes. We are also grateful to NCFR for showing these pets so much love today and for helping spread the word about local animals in search of their forever families.

-Sabrina Robertson
​ Communications Officer


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The Dog Program

7/15/2025

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7/15/25 @ 7:00 p.m.

​In July 2024, the County Extension and Nassau County Animal Services (NCAS) partnered to offer “The Dog Program”, a course designed to educate teens ages 15-18 years old on basic dog training and caring skills, in hopes of helping more shelter pets get adopted.  

A new session of The Dog Program will begin in August 2025 and participants will learn about animal wellness, hands-on vet science, the adoption process and proper care. Participants will also train rescue dogs along side of professional trainers and complete a project book showcasing their learning and service hours. Lastly, each will participate in an Adoption Day Competition at the Fairgrounds in October 2025. 

If you're ready to make a difference in a dog's life and grow your skills, be sure to sign up for this program. The deadline to apply is July 17, 2025. Register here. 

-Sabrina Robertson
 Communications Officer
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Adopt a Shelter Pet Day

4/29/2025

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4/29/25 @ 7:00 p.m.

Wednesday, April 30, 2025 is NATIONAL ADOPT A SHELTER PET DAY!

If you're considering a pet, please don't forget the wonderful cats and dogs at Nassau County Animal Services that are waiting for their forever homes.

All pets come spayed/neutered, fully vaccinated and are microchipped. And in recognition of National Adopt a Pet Month (recognized annually in April), all pet adoptions are FREE!

Nassau County Animal Services 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.

-Sabrina Robertson
 Communications Officer

#Adoptashelterpetday
#adoptdontshop
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I Found a Kitten Outside. Now What?

4/23/2025

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4/23/25 @ 9:30 a.m. 

Kitten season refers to the time of year when many litters of kittens are born. The exact time depends of the region and climate but most places experience kitten season between April and November. 

According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), kittens are one of the most vulnerable populations and that many end up there due to well-meaning animal lovers. So what do you do if you find a kitten? First, know that removing kittens from their current environment may not be the right answer as the mom could be nearby getting food or hiding from you. No one can care for a kitten like its mother. 

Before picking up kittens, access the scenario using the CASA method. Consider the following 4 factors: Condition, Age, Situation and Abilities. Use the below graphic to guide you in this initial assessment. 

-Sabrina Robertson
​ Communications Officer
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