ESCANABA, Mich. (WZMQ) – An Escanaba animal shelter is receiving state funds to better take care of animals in need.
The Delta Animal Shelter is receiving $5,000 from the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD). Shelter manager Tonya Gartland says the funds will be used to upgrade surgical equipment for spaying and neutering procedures.
“To help the overpopulation of animals, every animal is spayed and neutered,” she said. “The amount of medical we put in is not even half of what the adoption fee is, so we’re barely covering the medical cost, but to us it’s very important to make sure that these animals are all spayed and neutered before they leave our building.”
The money is a MDARD 2023 Animal Welfare Fund grant, which comes from taxpayers who chose to donate on their state tax returns.
“Our community in Delta County is great,” said Gartland. “Anytime we ask for anything, they’re so willing and helpful. Every year we save between 1,400 – 1,500 animals. If we didn’t have our support like we do, we wouldn’t be able to do that.”
Supporters of the shelter have several chances to give this spring. On May 4, the 10th Annual “Fur” Raiser will be held at the Island Resort and Casino.
“All the proceeds made from this–this is our biggest fundraiser–goes into taking care of the animals throughout the year,” Gartland said. “Any medical expenses, the lights, everything else we need to pay for. If you’re an animal lover, this is the event you don’t want to miss!”
Tickets for the “Fur” Raiser are $60. Tickets for a table of eight are available for $480. The event will include dinner, games, raffles, and an auction.
The shelter will also host its Wags-a-Tail Rummage Sale toward the end of the month, as well as a side-by-side ride fundraiser with the Menominee Animal Shelter.
Visit the Delta Animal Shelter’s Facebook page for updates on these and future fundraisers. If you are interested in adopting a furry friend, visit deltaanimal.org.
