The Calhoun County Animal Shelter is now caring for dozens of animals rescued from a Bedford Township property.

Approximately 28 dogs and 14 cats were voluntarily surrendered from a home on Woodside Drive as part of an ongoing animal neglect investigation.

The rescue was a joint effort with the Battle Creek Police Department.

Shelter Director Jackie Martens says that while the circumstances are heartbreaking, many of the dogs are showing incredible resilience.

The animals are now undergoing extensive medical and behavioral evaluations, as most lacked proper veterinary records and up-to-date vaccinations.

Two horses were also seized and have been moved to a secure facility.

An official investigation into abuse by neglect is underway, with potential charges depending on the outcome of veterinary reports.

Martens urged residents to seek help early if they feel overwhelmed caring for animals to prevent situations like this from escalating.

Buddy awaits rescue in a stark, abandoned courtyard, longing for warmth and comfort away from cold concrete walls.

All Species Kinship (A.S.K.) is urgently seeking a compassionate foster home in Calhoun County for at least six months to help Buddy transition out of isolation.

Described as friendly and hopeful, Buddy craves human connection and would thrive in a calm setting—ideally with a fenced yard and fewer animals, where he can finally decompress.

The great news: fostering Buddy is entirely free—A.S.K. covers food, vet care, and supplies.

All they ask is for kindness and patience, offering Buddy the chance at a brighter future.

If you’re in Calhoun County and can open your home—and heart—to this loving dog, consider stepping up or sharing his story.

Buddy’s hopeful eyes are counting on your help.

All Species Kinship (A.S.K.), a nonprofit based in Battle Creek, Michigan, is a lifeline for animals struggling to survive frigid Midwestern winters.

Founded by Sophia and Kathe DiPietro in 2001, the group is dedicated to serving neglected “under dogs” and their families, particularly in Battle Creek and Albion.

A.S.K. takes a proactive, nonjudgmental approach, offering straw insulation, sturdy shelters, and direct food deliveries to outdoor dogs—with 90% of cases found through intensive street outreach.

Beyond dogs, A.S.K. also rehabilitates wildlife and rescues abandoned domestic fowl, addressing the special needs these species face in severe cold.

The organization’s winter operations rely entirely on local donations and cost thousands every season, covering everything from spay/neuter surgeries to gasoline for the mobile outreach van.

Through direct action, A.S.K. is not only saving animals but also supporting underserved families, showing that compassion can thrive even in the harshest conditions.

Bring some holiday cheer to local shelter pets with the Humane Society of South Central Michigan’s Angel Tree program.

Visit their lobby to choose a ticket from the festive Angel Tree and fulfill a special wish for a shelter animal. Call ahead to ensure availability before stopping by.

Gifts received will be paired with the pets they help, a touching showcase of the community’s generosity.

Support is also welcome year-round via their Amazon Wishlist, found on the shelter’s Facebook page—each donation helps provide vital care and comfort for the animals.

If you’re thinking about adoption, each dog and cat is fully vetted, altered, and ready for a loving home.

Interested families can apply online and meet their possible new companion by appointment.

Consider fostering a pet for the holidays to make an even bigger difference.

Thank you for supporting shelter animals this season.

Calhoun County Animal Center is calling on the community for urgent winter support.  

This season, the shelter faces rising challenges to keep its animals safe, warm, and cared for.  

One of the most vital needs is pet-friendly ice melt.  

Unlike normal salt, this safe alternative keeps walkways clear and protects the paws of cats and dogs from painful burns and health hazards.  

Donations of chloride-free ice melt are essential for the direct health of every shelter animal.  

The shelter has also shared a wish list, which includes cleaning supplies, cat litter, food, and toys.  

Every donated item, from bleach to durable dog beds, helps maintain a safe and comfortable environment for pets awaiting their forever homes.  

Supplies can be dropped off at 165 Union St. S., Battle Creek, or you can make a monetary donation online.  

Your support this winter truly makes a difference for local animals in need.

The Humane Society of South Central Michigan is overflowing with adoptable cats, from energetic kittens to sweet seniors.

If you’re seeking more love and warmth at home, these pets could be just what you need.

Picture the holidays with a new feline friend curled up by your side, filling your days with joy and laughter.

Cats bring comfort, personality, and a sense of calm, brightening even the coldest winter.

Choosing to adopt means years of companionship—playful mornings, purring evenings, and a home that feels happier and more complete.

If your heart is leaning toward adoption, now’s the time to visit the Humane Society.

One of these loving cats could turn out to be the greatest gift of the year—both for you and for them.

This holiday season, three special rescue pets are waiting for a loving home in South Central Michigan.  

Paisley is a gentle, three-year-old female shepherd mix with soulful eyes and a calm nature, hoping for a second chance after a rocky start.  

Parker, a playful six-month-old shepherd mix puppy, is full of energy and always ready to brighten your days with his goofiness and affection.  

Bagel is a resilient, one-year-old tabby cat who overcame injury and now just wants a peaceful place to play and nap, especially suited for older children or life as your only furry friend.  

All three pets are available for adoption at the Humane Society of South Central Michigan.  

Give Paisley, Parker, or Bagel the gift of a forever home, and help make their Christmas wish come true.  

Every pet deserves the magic of finally belonging.

Several dogs have recently been found roaming our community, scared and exhausted, simply hoping to return home.

Unfortunately, every local shelter and rescue group is now overwhelmed after a surge in lost, surrendered, and rescued pets.

Kennels and foster homes are completely full — just as the holidays approach.

While this season is about warmth and family, many of these pups have yet to experience a loving home, a soft blanket, or even a sense of safety.

If you have the space, even for a short time, fostering can offer an animal their first real chance at comfort and hope.

Fostering saves lives. Adoption transforms futures.

This year, let’s make tails wag by helping every lost dog find warmth and care—together, we can ensure every furry friend finds a home.

Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office rescued 68 dogs from a Newton Township home after receiving reports of neglect on October 21.

Deputies responded to the 8000 block of 8½ Mile Road, where the 68-year-old homeowner allowed them to search the residence.

Inside, officials discovered hazardous conditions, including excessive animal waste and the strong odor of urine.

Many dogs and cats appeared to be in poor health, and one deceased dog was found outside.

The homeowner surrendered all animals willingly.

The dogs were transferred to the Calhoun County Animal Shelter for medical care and evaluation.

Adult Protective Services intervened for the homeowner's welfare, while the case remains under investigation.

Felony animal abuse and animal torture charges may be pursued pending review by the Prosecutor’s Office.

Locals can contact authorities with tips or inquire about animal adoption through the shelter.

Michigan’s Court of Appeals has ruled that chimpanzees do not have human rights, upholding the DeYoung Family Zoo’s right to house seven chimpanzees in Wallace.

Judges Matthew Ackerman, Brock Swartzle, and Christopher Trebilcock stressed that current law considers chimpanzees as property, not persons, regardless of intelligence.

The Nonhuman Rights Project, led in court by attorney Jake Davis, had argued for recognizing chimps as autonomous beings, hoping to secure their relocation to a sanctuary.

Backed by primatologist Jane Goodall, the group cited chimps’ sophisticated social lives, but Judge Mary B. Bargland rejected their case in Menominee County before the appeal.

The appellate panel said legal changes must come from the Michigan Supreme Court. Disappointed, Davis announced plans to appeal, underscoring the larger debate over animal rights and legal personhood.

All 68 dogs rescued from a severe hoarding case in Newton Township have found safe new homes, thanks to the unwavering support of multiple local rescue groups and volunteers.

Key organizations like Saving Souls Pet Alliance, West Michigan Humane Society, Harbor Humane, Unleashed Love, and Animal Aid of Branch County led the way in caring for the animals and securing their adoptions.

Special credit goes to Danielle Kolberg for her crucial coordination of transport and placement efforts.

Pawfect Impressions and Michele Manik provided essential grooming, ensuring each dog was ready for a fresh start, while Phyllis Quinn and Evianne DuBois handled support and behavioral assessments.

Community donations of food and funds have been vital, continuing to support rescued animals at local shelters.

The Calhoun County Animal Center staff remain dedicated, welcoming further donations on October 23, 2025, and reflecting the heart of this compassionate community.

Calhoun County Sheriff's deputies rescued 71 dogs from a home in Newton Township after discovering unsanitary conditions and severe neglect on October 21, 2025.

Inside the three-bedroom house, deputies found animals living amid hazardous amounts of feces and urine.

The elderly homeowner surrendered the dogs, which were then taken to the Calhoun County Animal Shelter.

With resources already stretched thin, shelter staff—under Jackie Martens' guidance—used storage kennels and doubled up dogs to manage the crisis.

Community support, including donations of food and supplies, has been vital.

The Prosecutor’s Office is reviewing animal abuse charges, and Adult Protective Services is assisting the homeowner.

This case highlights the urgent need for community vigilance, ongoing donations, and more volunteers to help local shelters and the animals in their care.

Residents interested in helping can contact the Calhoun County Animal Shelter for more information on donations, volunteering, or adoption.

The Nonhuman Rights Project is seeking to appeal to the Michigan Supreme Court after its bid for the release of six chimpanzees at the DeYoung Family Zoo in the Upper Peninsula was denied by the Michigan Court of Appeals.

The appellate court’s unanimous decision ruled that chimpanzees do not hold the same legal rights as humans, rejecting arguments that the animals deserve habeas corpus protection.

Jake Davis, attorney for the Nonhuman Rights Project, highlighted the close genetic link between chimps and humans, urging for the primates’ relocation to a nature preserve better matching their needs.

Judge Matthew Ackerman wrote that animals, under Michigan law, remain property and not legal persons with protected liberty.

The privately owned zoo in Menominee County has not commented.

The organization hopes the state’s highest court might set a new precedent for animal personhood.

Authorities in Newton Township, Michigan, have rescued 68 dogs from a local home after discovering severe neglect and hazardous living conditions.

Responding to a tip on October 21, 2025, Calhoun County Sheriff's deputies entered the residence of a 68-year-old woman and found an overwhelming odor of urine, animal waste, and multiple pets in poor health.

Tragically, one dog was already deceased in the backyard.

The homeowner agreed to surrender all dogs, now under the care of the Calhoun County Animal Shelter.

Adult Protective Services is assessing her well-being, while possible felony animal abuse charges are under review.

This case highlights the growing issue of pet hoarding, often linked to underlying mental health struggles, seen elsewhere in Michigan recently.

Residents are urged to report suspected neglect and can reach out to the Calhoun County Animal Shelter to help or adopt these rescued animals.

We Are Saints Again Bar & Grill is rallying the local community to support the Calhoun County Animal Shelter after a dramatic rescue of 71 dogs from dire conditions in Newton Township.

Following the discovery of dogs in hazardous environments on 8 1/2 Mile Road, the shelter has been overwhelmed with the sudden influx of animals needing urgent care.

To help meet the critical need for supplies, the bar and grill has launched a pet food drive.

Residents are urged to drop off pet food, blankets, and essential items at the restaurant, where every donation will be delivered directly to the shelter.

Authorities confirm the rescued dogs, many suffering from neglect, are now in safe hands and gradually recovering.

Community involvement is vital—donations and potential adoptions will make a genuine impact on these animals’ futures.

The Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office responded to a troubling report of animal neglect late Tuesday morning in Newton Township’s 8000 block of 8½ Mile Road.

Deputies, after gaining access to the home, found unsanitary and hazardous conditions, including large amounts of animal waste and strong odors throughout the property.

Authorities rescued roughly 68 dogs and several cats in poor health, while also discovering a deceased dog outside.

The 68-year-old homeowner allowed the search and voluntarily surrendered all animals, which were taken to the Calhoun County Animal Shelter for urgent care and evaluation.

Adult Protective Services was notified to check on the homeowner’s welfare.

The investigation is ongoing, with possible felony animal abuse charges pending review by the Calhoun County Prosecutor’s Office.

The community can contact local authorities for tips or learn how to help with rescue efforts.

Louise, affectionately known as Weezie, is a charming Pitbull/Shepherd mix born in May 2018, hoping to find her forever home in the community.

She’s full of spunk, occasionally showcasing playful energy and showing a special fondness for engaging with people.

Louise thrives on human interaction, especially when it comes to butt scratches and affectionate attention.

With an upbeat spirit and big personality, she’s eager for a loving new start.

Louise is kennel trained, likely house trained, and ready for household life, though she may need some leash manners due to her strength.

Best suited for families with older children, she usually wants to be the leader among other dogs and might do best as an only pet or with an older male dog after a proper introduction.

Give Louise the quiet, caring home she deserves—reach out to the local shelter to meet your new best friend.

The community has come together with heartfelt support for Midnight, a stray puppy just 3-4 months old, after he faced a critical fight against parvovirus.

Found alone on the streets, Midnight was rushed to Dickman Road Veterinary Clinic on October 13, where he received lifesaving treatment for the dangerous infection.

Sabrina’s Light, a local rescue, quickly organized his follow-up care and arranged a safe foster home, knowing parvo can linger and threaten other animals.

Community member Gayle Swanson stepped in, providing round-the-clock care and affection in her own home.

With help from the clinic, Sabrina’s Light, and compassionate residents, Midnight is now on his way to a joyful recovery.

His journey highlights the powerful role of community in saving vulnerable animals and proves that every act of kindness truly matters.

The Humane Society of South Central Michigan has refreshed its gallery, sharing updated photos and detailed profiles of pets ready for adoption, inviting Battle Creek residents to discover their next furry friend.

Every animal receives attentive care, including essential spaying or neutering, microchips, and up-to-date vaccines. Cats are screened for FIV and FeLV, while dogs older than six months are tested for heartworm and receive monthly heartworm and flea protection.

To begin the adoption journey, potential pet parents are urged to fill out an application found under the adoptions tab on the shelter’s website. Once reviewed, appointments are set to meet adoptable pets in person.

HSSCM also takes part in community campaigns, including the annual Empty the Shelters event, which helps lower adoption costs and brings more pets into loving homes.

Bringing home a pet from HSSCM means supporting dedicated animal welfare in Battle Creek.

Michigan’s microbreweries and small wineries could soon welcome dogs indoors, as lawmakers consider changes to current regulations.

House Bill 4204, led by Representative Natalie Price, proposes allowing canine companions inside venues like tasting rooms and small wineries that lack commercial kitchens.

Business owners would decide whether to allow dogs, provided strict hygiene and safety rules are followed.

Requirements involve keeping dogs leashed and out of seating and food prep areas, while ensuring spaces stay clean and free of dog hair and waste.

Supporters say the change would attract more visitors, especially during Michigan’s cold months, and boost local business by meeting demand for pet-friendly places.

The bill awaits review by the House Regulatory Reform Committee and, if approved, would signal a major shift in the state’s approach to pets in social spaces.

All Species Kinship (A.S.K.) celebrated a heartwarming success with its OzzyStrong Puppy Shower, where the community came together to raise more than $6,000 for local animal welfare efforts.

Thanks to affordable $6 tickets and approachable activities—like t-shirts, stickers, and keychains—the event drew wide participation.

The funds directly support weekly free spay and neuter services, as well as ongoing medical care for animals under A.S.K.'s guidance.

High costs come with caring for senior and special-needs dogs, which include prescription diets and hospice care for several residents.

Attendees’ generosity went beyond financial gifts, filling a van with supplies even when asked not to bring donations.

A.S.K. expressed deep gratitude, highlighting the compassion and unity of the local community.

The event was made possible by Squirrel Hollow Golf Course, whose support was invaluable to the day’s success.

The Calhoun County Animal Center is currently over capacity, with dogs and cats in need of loving families.

While some pets await reunification with their owners, many are hoping for a forever home.

Life in a shelter can be tough for any animal.

These pets dream of soft beds, caring hands, and the warmth of a dedicated family.

Though staff and volunteers offer heartfelt care, nothing compares to the comfort of a true home.

With the holidays approaching, there’s never been a better moment to open your heart.

Whether you seek a playful kitten, a loyal dog, or a gentle senior companion, the center has a perfect match waiting for you.

If adoption has ever crossed your mind, now is the time to make a life-changing difference—for both you and a deserving pet.

If you care about animals in Battle Creek, Cereal City Animal Alliance offers a chance to make a real difference in our community.

The group’s simple mission is to help pets in need and bring together neighbors who want to support local animals.

Subscribe to stay in the loop on lost or found pets, local adoptions, and volunteer opportunities that uplift Battle Creek’s animals.

Whether you’re a longtime rescue advocate or just looking to do good, joining the Alliance ensures you never miss a way to lend a paw.

Together, we can create a kinder, safer home for every pet—making Battle Creek a place where animals have a real chance to thrive.

Conny Wissenback is transforming animal rescue in Las Vegas with her unique blend of compassion and creativity.

Known as a talented hairdresser and a devoted mom, Conny’s passion for animal welfare led her to launch “Save the Doggie” through her West Valley Shoutouts publication.

What began as a small newsletter feature has grown into SaveTheDoggie.com, a dedicated hub celebrating adoptable pets and the heroes behind animal rescue.

Her efforts have inspired a national ripple effect—local newsletters, including Battle Creek’s Cereal City Animal Alliance, now amplify animal adoption and shelter support in their own communities.

Driven by Conny’s example, Battle Creek residents can get involved by subscribing, volunteering, or donating.

Her story proves one person’s big idea can spark a movement—giving shelter animals hope and inspiring cities like Battle Creek to make a difference.

Bertha, a gentle dog from the Calhoun County Animal Shelter, brought pure joy during a stroll along Battle Creek’s Linear Path this week.

The sunshine and fresh air, paired with Bertha’s nonstop tail wags, made for an uplifting experience and a reminder of the happiness animals can bring.

It’s easy to make a difference at the local shelter—volunteers are always welcome to walk the dogs, offering companionship and simple pleasures that mean the world to these animals.

If you’re unable to have pets at home, walking shelter dogs is an ideal way to enjoy “puppy therapy” while providing exercise and care to animals like Bertha.

Bertha is currently available for adoption at Calhoun County Animal Shelter, hoping her next walk could be with a loving new friend.

Cereal City Animal Alliance shines a spotlight on local adoptable pets every week, hoping to connect these deserving animals with loving families.

This week’s featured friends come from the Humane Society of South Central Michigan, offering a variety of personalities from energetic puppies to gentle older pets.

Each photo below leads to their adoption story, helping future owners learn more about their ideal match and the unique needs these animals have.

Adopting means transforming lives: not just for the pet you bring home, but for those who will be rescued in the space you help create.

Open your heart, browse the adorable faces, and discover which local companion might be the perfect addition to your family.

Ozzy, a resilient puppy, has captured Battle Creek’s heart after surviving being abandoned on the roadside inside a garbage bag.

Rescued at just six weeks old in critical condition, Ozzy’s journey from trauma to recovery has inspired the entire community.

Though still partially blind and deaf, his indomitable spirit shines through every day.

Support for Ozzy extends beyond the OzzyStrong Puppy Shower—each donation fuels vital care for all animals under A.S.K. and sustains free local services like spay/neuter surgeries.

Your gifts truly offer second chances to the most vulnerable creatures.

Celebrate in person at the OzzyStrong Puppy Shower, or give through trusted platforms to help more tales like Ozzy’s end in hope.

All Species Kinship (A.S.K.) is a powerful force for animal advocacy in Southwest Michigan, renowned for its tireless rescue efforts.

From retrieving abandoned geese in traffic to finding sanctuary for neglected dogs, A.S.K. steps in where others fall short.

Recently, a domestic Chinese goose and an injured Canada goose were found begging for food along Kalamazoo’s bustling streets, their flightless state leaving them vulnerable.

Thanks to quick action by a compassionate local, both birds were rescued—one now thriving in A.S.K.’s flock, and the other rehabilitated and released back to the wild.

Stories like these underscore Michigan’s problem of domestic bird abandonment, yet outreach from A.S.K. has sharply reduced cases in Calhoun County.

Among their most inspiring survivors is Ozzy, a puppy left for dead but revived through A.S.K.’s unwavering dedication, embodying the group’s 25-year commitment to compassion and resilience.

Cereal City Animal Alliance has officially launched, bringing a new hub for Battle Creek animal lovers.

Created by the team behind Cereal City Buzz, the newsletter and group focus on connecting local shelter pets with forever homes.

Each edition spotlights adoptable animals, shares heartwarming adoption success stories, and offers tips for pet care, fostering, and volunteering.

Working closely with All Species Kinship (A.S.K.), Calhoun County Animal Shelter, and the Humane Society of South Central Michigan, the Alliance aims to support these crucial organizations.

All newsletter sponsorship profits go directly to helping local pets—every ad or sponsor contribution brings more hope for animals in need.

If you want to support or adopt, Cereal City Animal Alliance is your gateway to making a difference and possibly finding your next furry friend.