Cherryland Humane Society needs your help!

The Cherryland Humane Society in Traverse City is struggling with an increase in abandoned pets and cost of supplies as donations are falling. The Northern Express reports that the combination has the agency in danger of closing its doors:

“The CHS is dependent on donations for its very existence,” Cherry said. “Often animal charities are on the lower end of the giving scale,” adding CHS received only 60% of the expected total funds from annual donors in 2010.

Established July 1956, the CHS provides over 25 programs dedicated to spay and neuter awareness, pet education and homeless dog and cat adoption, among other services in the Grand Traverse region. Last year, CHS found homes for 596 puppies and dogs; and 556 kittens and cats.

“Last week we had 18 dogs adopted,” Schwartz said.

Because of the shape of the economy, including job loss and foreclosures, CHS has seen a record increase in animals coming to the shelter, according to Reed.

“People will come to us crying because they can’t find an apartment that will allow dogs or they just can’t afford to keep their pet,” Schwartz sympathizes.

Read more from the Northern Express and click here to donate directly to the Humane Society.

From June 27-July 4 the Leelanau Peninsula Vintners Association wineries below will feature a special wine and donate proceeds to the Cherryland Humane Society.

Wineries and Wines

  • Gill’s Pier and “Ankle Biter”
  • Chateau de Leelanau and “Solem Farm Red”
  • Black Star Farms of Suttons Bay and “Red House Red” with Cherryland Humane Society special custom labels
  • Bel Lago and “Cherry Wine”
  • Good Harbor and “Manitou”
  • Forty Five North and “Forty Five White”
  • L. Mawby and “Green”
  • Cherry Republic and “Abbondanza”
  • Good Neighbor Organics and “Icy Apple Blend”
  • Willow and “Baci Rose”