Little Traverse Bay Humane Society Assists Kalkaska County Animal Control with Large Dog Surrender
HARBOR SPRINGS, MI — Little Traverse Bay Humane Society assisted Kalkaska County Animal Control today with the surrender and removal of a large group of Chihuahuas, helping provide immediate support, transport, medical intake, and shelter resources during a time of urgent need.
Fifteen of the dogs are now safely in the care of LTBHS, where they will receive medical evaluations, ongoing care, and time to decompress in foster and shelter settings.
The collaborative response highlights the importance of partnerships within the animal welfare community — particularly for smaller rural shelters and animal control agencies that may not have the staffing, kennel capacity, or resources to manage large-scale situations on their own.
“When we received the call, our team immediately went into action,” said Executive Director, Elise Ramsey. “Because of the support of our donors and community, we’re able to step in during emergencies, assist our partners, and ensure animals have somewhere safe to go. These situations require trained staff, transport capabilities, medical resources, and foster support — and we’re incredibly proud to be able to provide that help when it’s needed most.”
Credentialed LTBHS staff assisted on scene with handling, documentation and transport coordination. The organization has participated in multiple emergency and crisis-response efforts already this year, continuing its commitment to supporting both local communities and animal welfare partners throughout Michigan.
Many of the dogs involved in the surrender had lived together and are expected to benefit from foster placement and decompression time outside of a shelter environment. LTBHS is currently seeking foster homes, supplies, and monetary donations to support their ongoing care.
“This is what collaboration in animal welfare looks like,” Ramsey added. “No single organization can do this work alone. It takes shelters, animal control officers, foster families, donors, and community members all working together to create better outcomes for animals and the people who love them.”
Those interested in fostering can apply at:
ltbhs.org/foster
To donate toward the dogs’ care, visit:
ltbhs.org/donate
About Little Traverse Bay Humane Society
Little Traverse Bay Humane Society is a nonprofit organization dedicated to sustainably and respectfully serving pets and the people who love them with compassionate, comprehensive, and exemplary care. Since 1951, LTBHS has worked to create a more humane community through animal sheltering, veterinary care, and access-to-care programs.