Northern Michigan is home to numerous dedicated animal rescue organizations that save and rehome a wide variety of animals, from dogs and cats to horses and alpacas. These nonprofits, many with decades of history, provide critical care, rehabilitation, and adoption services. For example, Cherryland Humane Society in Traverse City has been a no-kill shelter since 1956, housing up to 600 animals annually and sharing heartwarming adoption stories like Ziggy, a dog rescued from a fighting ring who found a loving home after 500 days. Similarly, Little Traverse Bay Humane Society and Great Lakes Humane Society have helped animals with severe medical needs and challenging pasts, such as Evie, who overcame eye deformities, and Waldo, a dog who found a forever home after multiple setbacks.

Other organizations like TC Paw focus on cats, offering unique programs like kitten yoga, while HANDDS to the Rescue specializes in hard-to-place dogs needing extra care. Stories from Wonderland Humane Society and Missaukee Humane Society highlight the compassion extended to senior and special-needs pets, such as Lady, a homeless family’s beloved cat, and Birdie, a diabetic dog thriving in her new home. Help From My Friends Pet Crisis Center supports pets of struggling owners, exemplified by Buddy, a dog who found a family that travels with him seasonally. Even horses receive care through Horse North Rescue, which provides lifelong support for equines like Lilly, an abused Arabian mare who finally found a patient adopter after years of waiting. These stories illustrate the tireless efforts and profound impact of Northern Michigan’s animal rescue community.