Guest Article: Bellwether Celebrates 15 Years

Guest Article: Bellwether Celebrates 15 Years 
By Melanie Baden, Bellwether Harbor Development Coordinator

Bellwether Harbor is proud to be celebrating their 15th Anniversary this spring.

The Bellwether Foundation began in 1994 with a vision of helping the abused, abandoned and neglected animals in Newaygo County. It was soon realized that there were more animals in need in the county and plans were made to build an animal shelter and training center. 

​Bellwether Harbor opened its doors in 2002 and cats and dogs have been filling it ever since. Over the years Bellwether has become a true community resource. We are here to help reunite lost pets with their families, counsel pet owners who may be having difficulties at home and be a safe place for homeless animals. Bellwether also conducts a dog safety and bite prevention program, Pet Pals, to area elementary and pre-schools students.

​Hundreds of dogs and cats in need have passed through our doors on their way to their forever homes. One of the more memorable ones is Charley Pride. He is a 9 year old Plott Hound that was badly injured, malnourished, heartworm positive and running loose in the woods around Whitehall. He was taken...

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...to Pound Buddies in Muskegon but his condition was more severe than they could treat so they asked if Charley could be transferred here for care. If not,Pound Buddies would have made the difficult decision to euthanize the dog.

After months of treatment and surgeries Charley never lost his happy attitude and love for people. On New Year’s Eve Charley got the best gift, he went home with his new family. Now known as Hunter, this dog proudly rides shotgun all over town. This is just one of the hundreds of similar stories of Bellwether animals.

To honor all the supporters, donors, adopters and volunteers that make stories like Charley’s possible Bellwether is hosting a 15th Anniversary Celebration. It will be held May 18th at the Dogwood Center. The evening will begin with a reception to thank our donors, supporters and volunteers. A highlight of the night will be the silent auction filled with one of kind gifts, unique experiences and tasty cuisine.

​A special concert by Singer/Songwriter Kenny White will entertain our guests with songs ranging from heart wrenching to hilarious. Tickets for the event are $40 each and can be purchased at our facility during normal business hours or by visiting www.bellwetherharbor.org