History

 

In 1979 a group of caring individuals became concerned about the plight of homeless pets in our community. They were horrified when they discovered just how many thousands of animals were euthanized in Berrien County every year and wanted to do something about it. 

Animal Aid was founded with the vision of helping homeless and injured pets in Berrien County. Issues of primary concern were:

1. Over population
2. Lack of funding to care for sick or injured animals.
3. Lack of funding to ensure that pets at the shelters remained healthy until adopted.
4. Lack of education in the community about the value of animals.
5. Lack of education in the community about spaying and neutering.
6. Lack of resources in the community for those who couldn't or wouldn't pay for spaying and neutering.

Once these priorities were identified, organizational work to put in place programs that would address these issues began.

They began fundraising, recruited foster homes, and started a community wide education effort to let people know about the plight of homeless animals in Berrien County. 

When they started almost 20,000 animals were euthanized in Berrien County.  Now, although it’s still too many, the number is down under 7000. 

Spay Neuter programs have been organized with other local animal rescue organizations and have begun focusing specifically on the Spay/Neuter issue. Grant money to help low income pet owners has focused on Spay Neuter assistance.

We are the first responders for injured and abused pets located by local law enforcement.

For 30+ years Animal Aid of Southwestern Michigan has been serving Berrien County. Please join us in building a better support network for caring pet owners, an educational service to teach good pet ownership and a rescue organization for pets in need.