Editor’s note: This article was published in Grand Traverse Scene magazine’s Holiday 2026 issue. Pick up a free copy at area hotels, visitors centers, chambers of commerce or at the Record-Eagle building at 1764 Forest Ridge Drive in Traverse City. Click here to read GT Scene in its entirety online.
It’s paw-liday season, time to embrace hope, joy and charity with the pets making our life merry.
From the fun of partying with pets, to the hope of animals waiting in shelters for a forever home to the charity of those who donate to sustain shelters, the season invites us to honor the love and loyalty our cherished animals provide.
Cherryland Humane Society gets tails wagging at December’s A Cause for Paws event sponsored by Sarah and Dereck Dykes. The fundraising festivities include holiday themed activities, raffles, a silent auction and pet photos with Santa.
Cherryland celebrates its first holiday season at its 9,000 square foot building expansion unveiled in September. “The main point of the addition is to create a cat center and community space and to provide more space for meet and greets with dogs.” said Naomi Pobuda, Cherryland’s communications and marketing manager.
The no-kill shelter adopts out 700 to 800 animals every year – pups like Hudson. Hope was kept alive for the beefy pit bull mix who waited a full year for his forever home. Staff cheered when a match was finally made. Hudson can now be seen enjoying walks around town with his new family.
For the party animals in your life, Grand Traverse Mall welcomes pet owners to its professional pet photo shoots and festivities. Pet Parties take place from 4 – 7 p.m. on November 30, December 1, 7, 8, 14 and 15. Photos are printed instantly. Additional prints may be ordered.
Pet Supplies Plus presents its annual Jolly Jubilee in December. Show off your Santa Paws with a portrait perfect for holiday cards. Jubilee photos are donation-based.
Professional photographer Brooke Baker offers tips when bringing dogs to a photo shoot. “It can be very exciting for pets to meet Santa – it’s best to take them on a long walk ahead of time to get some of their jitters and energy out beforehand,” she said. She also advises owners to prepare for the possibility of waiting in line with other animals, and to bring treats.
The Jubilee raises funds and pet food and supply donations for Hoop’s Pet Food Pantry. The pantry hosted by Square Deal Country Store saves struggling families from the heartbreak of surrendering their pet. Hoops furnishes food and supplies for 900 animals every month.
As prices for groceries and services rise, shelters, too, struggle to feed animals in their care. Pet food is not exempt from cost increases. “With costs going up, people need more help, but we also receive less donations,” said Morgan Cerny, Antrim County animal control officer. Antrim County Animal Shelter also offers a pet food pantry.
Benzie County Animal Shelter attendant Rebecca Knapp describes pet food and supply donations as critical to the operation. Knapp explained that some animals require extra costly special dietary needs which places additional pressure on the shelter. Knapp said the boost from Christmas time donations support shelter care for months. Last year holiday charitable donations to the shelter provided 2,011 pounds of dry dog food in addition to dry cat food and wet food for dogs and cats.
The Benzie shelter celebrates the season with a traditional Christmas tree where gifts for the animals accumulate under its wide green arms. This season, hope and joy shine with ornaments featuring photos of animals adopted during 2025 and those currently housed at the shelter.
Pets Naturally Dog Bakery adds its own touch of joy to celebrating with pets. After Thanksgiving, the store erects a seasonal photo backdrop for drop-in DIY pet pictures. “You can bring your pet with props,” said sales assistant Chloe Sniff. “We also provide props like scarves and hats.”
The bakery offers handcrafted dog treats made with wholesome ingredients fresh-baked in holiday-themed shapes and colorfully decorated. Choose from four flavors and four designs sold individually or in packages of four and six for gifting.
Pobuda said while it can be tempting to bring home a shelter dog or cat during the holidays, giving a pet as a gift requires careful consideration. “If the entire family is on board, it’s a lovely idea and something they can do together,” she said.
Check with the individual organizations for updates on event dates and times and the best ways to donate. Most shelters post wish lists on their website, Facebook page or on Amazon. Typically requested items are dog and cat food, cat litter, cleaning supplies, crates, bedding, collars and toys.