Benzie County Animal Control & Shelter

06/04/2026

🐾 BIG NEWS FOR BENZIE COUNTY ANIMAL LOVERS! 🐾

We are thrilled to announce that the Benzie County Animal Control and Shelter is now officially on Petfinder! 🐶🐱

Finding your next furry family member just got a whole lot easier. Our new Petfinder page allows you to browse all of our currently available dogs and cats from the comfort of your couch. You can view photos, read about their unique personalities, and see who is waiting to meet you!

✨ Why this is a game-changer:
Real-Time Updates: As new pets arrive and become available for adoption, you’ll see them online right away.

Shareable Profiles: You can easily share our adoptable pets' profiles with friends and family to help us spread the word and find homes faster!
Detailed Search: Looking for a specific energy level, size, or age? You can filter your search to find the perfect match for your lifestyle.

Our mission is to connect amazing pets with incredible homes, and we are so excited to use this tool to bring more families together.

👉 Check out our page and view our current adoptable pets here: https://www.petfinder.com/member/us/mi/beulah/benzie-county-animal-control-and-shelter-mi466/

Please give this post a SHARE to help our shelter animals find their forever homes!

With more adoptable pets than ever, we have an urgent need for pet adopters. Search for dogs, cats, and other available pets for adoption near you.

06/02/2026

Welcome to Benzie County, Joe! 🐾

We are thrilled to officially welcome Joe Duncan as our new Animal Control and Shelter Director! Joe brings a wealth of passion and experience to our community, and we can’t wait to see the positive impact he’ll make for our local pets and residents.
If you see him out and about or at the shelter, please give him a warm Benzie County welcome! 🐶🐱

Stay tuned for more exciting changes coming to Animal Control and the Shelter!

05/07/2026

We have some wonderful updates to share as we work toward a bright future for Benzie County Animal Control and the animals in our care.

Big things are happening behind the scenes:
• Website Redesign: We’re building a more user-friendly site to better connect you with our pets. In the meantime, be sure to bookmark www.benzieco.gov/animalcontrol to keep track of all the wonderful pets currently looking for their forever homes!
• Policy and Practice Updates: We are thoughtfully reviewing our practices to ensure the highest standards of care, including exploring the use of outside pet adoption services.
• New Leadership: Recruitment is officially underway for our next Animal Control Director.
• Facility Upgrades: Thanks to a recently awarded grant, our inside dog kennels are getting a much-needed facelift to improve the comfort of our canine residents.

Benzie County Animal Control is a vital safety net for the community’s most vulnerable pets, and it takes a village to support them. If you’d like to give back, please stop by the County Administration office to sign up as a volunteer! We’re always looking for volunteers to help with cleaning the shelter and kennel yard or to provide additional social time for the animals.

Thank you for your patience during this time. It takes a community with good intentions to make this work possible.

Stay tuned for more updates and don't forget to check out our website - we have some great dogs and a special kitty still waiting for their forever families! 🐶🐱

04/06/2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Benzie County Provides Information on Recent Animal Shelter Operations

BENZIE COUNTY, MI — Benzie County is sharing the following information to help the community better understand recent administrative actions and animal welfare decisions related to the Benzie County Animal Shelter.

Volunteer Documentation:
Earlier this year, at the request of the County’s Animal Control Officer, County Administration working in conjunction with the County’s insurance provider, reviewed the shelter’s volunteer documentation to ensure it clearly reflected current operational and risk management recommendations. As part of this process, updated forms were prepared and reviewed by the Michigan Municipal Risk Management Authority (MMRMA). These materials are now in use to support consistent procedures and to help protect both volunteers and the County.

All individual volunteers at the shelter are asked to complete the updated forms so records accurately reflect current standards.

Animal Intake and Public Safety Considerations:
The County also wishes to provide general context regarding a recent animal intake that has received public attention. In late February 2026, a dog was surrendered to the shelter following a reported biting incident. In accordance with Michigan law, the animal was placed under quarantine.

After the quarantine period and subsequent evaluation, the dog was adopted. The animal was later returned to the shelter following another reported biting incident. County staff then explored placement options, including outreach to rescue organizations with experience handling higher‑risk animals. Unfortunately, placement alternatives were not available.

Following careful review and with public safety as the primary consideration, the County made the difficult decision to humanely euthanize the animal. Such decisions are never taken lightly and are considered only after other reasonable options have been evaluated.

Community Engagement:
Benzie County recognizes the strong community interest in animal welfare issues and appreciates the public’s concern and engagement. The County remains committed to transparency, professionalism, and the safety of residents, staff, and volunteers.
For additional questions about shelter operations, residents are encouraged to contact County officials directly so inquiries can be addressed as accurately and constructively as possible.

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Contact:
Benzie County Board of Commissioners
Art Jeannot, Chairperson
[email protected]
Benzie County Administration Office
[email protected]

04/06/2026

UPDATE: Bunny’s family has been found! We’ve learned this morning that Bunny is a senior dog dealing with the physical toll that comes with old age, and his family has been by his side through it. While he looked a bit weathered when he was found, it’s clear he is a cherished member of a home. We’re so glad he’s back where he belongs and thank everyone for their concern!

FOUND DOG – EASTER SUNDAY

We’re trying to find this boy’s family.

On Easter Sunday, a stray male dog was found alone and called in, here in Benzie County. Because he arrived on a holiday, our team gave him a gentle, hopeful name — “Bunny.” He has the sweetest face and the softest soul, the kind of dog who leans into kindness even when life hasn’t been kind to him.

Bunny is in rough shape. It’s clear he’s been struggling for longer than just a day or two, and we want to be honest about that while still giving space for the possibility that someone, somewhere, may be looking for him. What we can say is this:
There is no way this boy just slipped out of a yard over the weekend.
He needs care, and he needs it now.

With no Animal Control Officer currently in place, our quick acting Sheriff Deputies brought Bunny to our shelter, where County Administration staff then stepped in personally to make sure Bunny wasn’t left without help. They transported him to an emergency veterinary clinic on Easter Sunday so he could be examined, treated, and kept safe. It was an unexpected holiday call, but no one hesitated — because he deserved that, and needed that.

Right now, our focus is simple and heartfelt:
If Bunny has a family out there, we want to find them. And if he doesn’t, we want to make sure he finally gets the care and love he’s been missing.

If you recognize him, or if you have any information about where he may have come from, please contact Benzie County Animal Control and Shelter. Even a small detail could help. 231.882.9095

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❤️ A note to our community

What we hope you see in Bunny’s story is the truth of our work:
Every animal who comes through our doors is met with compassion, dignity, and the hope of a safe outcome.
Even without an ACO, people stepped up — on a holiday — because that’s what this work demands. Bunny received all the special love and care he needed from the professional and caring staff at Bay Area Pet Hospital who have given us a thorough update on his health and detailed caregiving instructions.

Bunny is safe for the night, cozied up with some snuggles, food, water and medication to treat his ailments and relieve his discomfort.

Thank you to everyone who continues to support the shelter, our staff, and the animals who rely on us. Your kindness helps us keep going.

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04/04/2026

Meet Charlie!
Age: 5 Years Old

Breed: Catahoula Leopard Dog

Personality: Loving, Playful, and People-Oriented

If you are looking for a loyal companion with a striking look and a heart of gold, look no further than Charlie. This handsome 5-year-old Catahoula is the perfect blend of adventure and affection, ready to find his forever home.

Why You’ll Love Charlie-

Charlie is a true "people person." He thrives on human connection and has never met a stranger he didn't like. Whether it's playing in the backyard or curling up after a long day, Charlie just wants to be part of the action.

Kid-Friendly: Charlie is wonderful with children, making him a fantastic choice for a family looking for a gentle and playful protector.

Playful Spirit: At five years old, he has moved past the frantic puppy stage but still has plenty of energy for walks, hikes, and games of fetch.

Affectionate: He is a world-class snuggler who isn't afraid to show his appreciation with leans and tail wags.

Charlie’s Ideal Home-

While Charlie loves humans of all sizes, he is a bit of a "solo star" when it comes to other animals. To ensure he remains his happiest, most confident self, Charlie requires to be the only dog in the household! He wants to be the sole recipient of your treats, belly rubs, and attention—and in return, he’ll give you a lifetime of undivided devotion.

Ready to add a splash of color and a lot of love to your life? Charlie is waiting to meet you! Come see why this stunning leopard dog is the missing piece to your family puzzle.

Applications will be reviewed, and a decision will be made at a later time.

03/30/2026

***Adopted 4/5/26 Congrats to Teddy and Dana!!****

Teddy is back at the Benzie County Animal Shelter due to no fault of his own. He is a friendly, and affectionate 1yr old male, who enjoys the company of people and cats alike. Teddy is neutered, fully up to date on vaccinations, and is ready to find his forever family.

If you’re looking for a sweet, social companion, Teddy may be your guy.

Stop by the Benzie County Animal Shelter to meet Teddy!

03/27/2026

We are streamlining how you can get involved at the Benzie County Animal Shelter! To make the process smoother for everyone, we have officially updated our application paperwork.

What’s Changed?
In the past, our Volunteer and Community Service applications were combined into a single document. We recognize that this often caused confusion regarding requirements and next steps. To provide better clarity for the public, we have separated these into two distinct forms:

Volunteer Application: For those looking to donate their time long-term to help with animal care, enrichment, and shelter operations.

Community Service Application: For individuals seeking to fulfill specific court-ordered or school-required service hours.

Why the Update?
By separating these forms, we can ensure that every applicant receives the correct information, safety waivers, and scheduling instructions relevant to their specific type of service. Our goal is to get you through the administrative side faster so we can focus on what matters most—the animals!

How to Apply
New digital and physical copies of these forms are available starting today. You can pick them up at the County Administration Office during normal business hours or find them on our website.

Thank you for your continued support and for helping us make Benzie County a great place for our four-legged friends!

2026 Volunteer form: https://cms1files.revize.com/benzienew/Final%20Volunteer%20Application%20Form_ACO.pdf?t=202603271500340&t=202603271500340

2026 Community Service Application form:
https://cms1files.revize.com/benzienew/Community%20Service%20Application%20Form%20(2).pdf?t=202603271526090&t=202603271526090

If you have any questions, please contact the Benzie County Animal Control and Shelter at 231-882-9505 M-F 8-4 or Sat. and Sun. 10-3. Thanks!

03/27/2026

*outdated post* see later post.

We are streamlining how you can get involved at the Benzie County Animal Shelter! To make the process smoother for everyone, we have officially updated our application paperwork.

What’s Changed?
In the past, our Volunteer and Community Service applications were combined into a single document. We recognize that this often caused confusion regarding requirements and next steps. To provide better clarity for the public, we have separated these into two distinct forms:

Volunteer Application: For those looking to donate their time long-term to help with animal care, enrichment, and shelter operations.

Community Service Application: For individuals seeking to fulfill specific court-ordered or school-required service hours.

Why the Update?
By separating these forms, we can ensure that every applicant receives the correct information, safety waivers, and scheduling instructions relevant to their specific type of service. Our goal is to get you through the administrative side faster so we can focus on what matters most—the animals!

How to Apply
New digital and physical copies of these forms are available starting today. You can pick them up at the shelter during normal business hours or find them on our website.

Thank you for your continued support and for helping us make Benzie County a great place for our four-legged friends!

2026 Volunteer form: https://cms1files.revize.com/benzienew/Final%20Volunteer%20Application%20Form_ACO.pdf?t=202603271500340&t=202603271500340

2026 Community Service Application form:
https://cms1files.revize.com/benzienew/Community%20Service%20Application%20Form%20(2).pdf?t=202603271526090&t=202603271526090

If you have any questions, please contact the Benzie County Animal Control and Shelter at 231-882-9505 M-F 8-4 or Sat. and Sun. 10-3. Thanks!