Helaena is the kind of cat who may not rush over to greet you, but that doesn't mean she isn't interested in getting to know you. This beautiful 2-year-old has a sweet, quiet personality and the cutest little black spot right on her nose. If you meet Helaena at the Adoption Center, you'll likely find her perched on her favorite cat tree, taking everything in from a comfortable distance. Helaena likes to get to know people on her own terms, and our volunteers have discovered that sometimes the best way to earn her trust is simply to keep showing up. Several volunteers have shared how Helaena used to stay up on her cat tree when they first started volunteering. As they've continued coming in and spending time with her, she's become more comfortable. These days, she’ll come down and sit near people she has deemed worthy of her attention. If you are extra special, she may even reward you with pets, cuddles, and maybe even a little hand-licking. For Helaena, choosing to share your space is her way of saying, "I like having you around." And if you're hoping to win her over, there's one very important piece of information you should know: Churu treats are the key to Helaena's heart. A little patience and a tasty treat can go a long way with this girl. Helaena is also a true cat's cat. She loves the company of other cats and enjoys having feline friends around (especially her BFF Meowth), making her a wonderful choice for someone who already has a confident, cat-friendly companion at home. She’s looking for someone who will let her build trust at her own pace and appreciate the little moments when she decides you're worth getting closer to. Because when Helaena chooses you, it feels pretty special. If you're looking for a gentle companion who will grow alongside you and show her affection in her own unique way, Helaena may be your girl. Submit an Adoption Survey with Al-Van Humane Society at al-van.org/adopt.

Also, don't miss:

Humane Education Day at the Michigan Maritime Museum

Join Al-Van Humane Society and the Michigan Maritime Museum on Sunday, November 1, from 12–3 PM for Humane Education Day!
This free, family-friendly event celebrates kindness and compassion toward animals through hands-on activities that help kids learn about animal welfare and how they can make a difference in their community. Families will also have the opportunity to meet adoptable pets from Al-Van and learn more about adoption, fostering, and ways to help local animals.

Helaena is the kind of cat who may not rush over to greet you, but that doesn't mean she isn't interested in getting to know you. This beautiful 2-year-old has a sweet, quiet personality and the cutest little black spot right on her nose. If you meet Helaena at the Adoption Center, you'll likely find her perched on her favorite cat tree, taking everything in from a comfortable distance. Helaena likes to get to know people on her own terms, and our volunteers have discovered that sometimes the best way to earn her trust is simply to keep showing up. Several volunteers have shared how Helaena used to stay up on her cat tree when they first started volunteering. As they've continued coming in and spending time with her, she's become more comfortable. These days, she&rsquo;ll come down and sit near people she has deemed worthy of her attention. If you are extra special, she may even reward you with pets, cuddles, and maybe even a little hand-licking. For Helaena, choosing to share your space is her way of saying, "I like having you around." And if you're hoping to win her over, there's one very important piece of information you should know: Churu treats are the key to Helaena's heart. A little patience and a tasty treat can go a long way with this girl. Helaena is also a true cat's cat. She loves the company of other cats and enjoys having feline friends around (especially her BFF Meowth), making her a wonderful choice for someone who already has a confident, cat-friendly companion at home. She&rsquo;s looking for someone who will let her build trust at her own pace and appreciate the little moments when she decides you're worth getting closer to. Because when Helaena chooses you, it feels pretty special. If you're looking for a gentle companion who will grow alongside you and show her affection in her own unique way, Helaena may be your girl. Submit an Adoption Survey with Al-Van Humane Society at al-van.org/adopt.
Also, don't miss:
Humane Education Day at the Michigan Maritime Museum
Join Al-Van Humane Society and the Michigan Maritime Museum on Sunday, November 1, from 12&ndash;3 PM for Humane Education Day! This free, family-friendly event celebrates kindness and compassion toward animals through hands-on activities that help kids learn about animal welfare and how they can make a difference in their community. Families will also have the opportunity to meet adoptable pets from Al-Van and learn more about adoption, fostering, and ways to help local animals.

The Mason Jar Cafe Furry Friend of the Week - Helaena

Gus is a sweet, quick-learning dog who loves fetch and loves meeting new people! He’s about two years old and very friendly – he’s been good with other dogs here in the shelter, and does well on the leash; he learns new tricks and methods very quickly. Like all our adoptable dogs, he’s fixed, microchipped, heartworm tested, and vaccinated for rabies, parvo/distemper, and Bordetella/kennel cough. Gus looks forward to meeting you at Berrien County Animal Services, 1400 South Euclid Avenue, Benton Harbor, MI 49022, Phone 269-927-5648.    

Also, don't miss:
Saturday, October 24th, 2026, 11am-3pm:  Trunk or Treat at Berrien County Animal Services, 1400 South Euclid Avenue, Benton Harbor, MI 49022
Saturday, December 5th, 10am to 2pm:  Free Vaccine & Microchip Clinic at Berrien County Animal Services, 1400 South Euclid Avenue, Benton Harbor, MI 49022 (Last One of 2026!)

Gus is a sweet, quick-learning dog who loves fetch and loves meeting new people! He&rsquo;s about two years old and very friendly &ndash; he&rsquo;s been good with other dogs here in the shelter, and does well on the leash; he learns new tricks and methods very quickly. Like all our adoptable dogs, he&rsquo;s fixed, microchipped, heartworm tested, and vaccinated for rabies, parvo/distemper, and Bordetella/kennel cough. Gus looks&nbsp;forward to meeting you at Berrien County Animal Services, 1400 South Euclid Avenue, Benton Harbor, MI 49022, Phone&nbsp;<a href="tel:(269)%20927-5648">269-927-5648</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Also, don't miss:
<ul>
<li>Saturday, October 24th, 2026, 11am-3pm:&nbsp; Trunk or Treat at Berrien County Animal Services, 1400 South Euclid Avenue, Benton Harbor, MI 49022</li>
<li>Saturday, December 5th, 10am to 2pm:&nbsp; Free Vaccine &amp; Microchip Clinic at Berrien County Animal Services, 1400 South Euclid Avenue, Benton Harbor, MI 49022 (Last One of 2026!)</li>
</ul>

The Mason Jar Cafe Furry Friend of the Week - Gus

Ellie is a 5-year-old female mixed breed. She is spayed and ready to go home. Ellie is the most lovable girl, and just wants affection! She does well with other dogs and kids! She is available with our "Senior to Senior" adoptions.  Contact the Humane Society of Southwestern Michigan at 269-927-3303 to schedule an appointment to meet Ellie and learn more about her.

Also, don't miss:

Volunteer Orientation is October 17th at 10am here in the shelter

Join us for the Subaru Love at Four Winds Casino in New Buffalo on Oct. 25th, 11am-3pm

Ellie is a 5-year-old female mixed breed. She is spayed and ready to go home. Ellie is the most lovable girl, and just wants affection! She does well with other dogs and kids! She is available with our "Senior to Senior" adoptions. &nbsp;Contact the Humane Society of Southwestern Michigan at 269-927-3303 to schedule an appointment to meet Ellie and learn more about her.
Also, don't miss:
Volunteer Orientation is October 17th at 10am here in the shelter
Join us for the Subaru Love at Four Winds Casino in New Buffalo on Oct. 25th, 11am-3pm

The Mason Jar Cafe Furry Friend of the Week - Ellie 

We invite you to take a moment and get to know Chunk. This hunk o' love shows his love complete with drool! Chunk is approximately 4-5 years old and comes with all of his 'bits' attached. But, no worries, we provide you with a spay/neuter certificate to help offset the cost of having those pesky danglies removed! Chunk hasn't been tested with cats or kids, but he has shown he is a friendly gent with our staff and the vet he got to meet for his vaccinations. He knows some basic commands such as 'sit' and 'paw' which he was kind enough to demonstrate without even being asked. (We thought that was pretty cool!) Chunk is a pretty laid-back guy who enjoys naps, but he tends to prefer the floor over his bed. Maybe in time, when he realizes that beds are comfy he will use them, but we aren't forcing him to rush into a decision on that as of yet. He loves pig-ears and chews. He enjoys treats of all kinds and accepts them gently from your hands. We haven't had a lot of time to fully get to know him yet, but so far, we are enjoying our time with him. We think that you will as well if you meet him. He does have a large growth hanging from his back leg, but the vet assures us that a surgery for its removal would be pretty simple. He has such gentle eyes that show a soul looking to be loved. Are you looking for someone to love you as well? Maybe a movie partner? Chunk would love to share late-night movie marathons with you. However, we do suggest that you make him his own bowl of popcorn for movie nights for drool reasons. Chunk  is waiting to meet all potential adopters at Van Buren County Animal Control Shelter at 58040 County Road 681 in Hartford. Our phone number is 269-621-4624.    

Also, don't miss:
Saturday, October 17th, 2026 - 9am to 4pm:  Free Vaccine Clinic by Van Buren County Animal Control Shelter!
MUST be a resident of Van Buren County. 
Free for all Van Buren County residents regardless of income. 
The free vaccinations are provided by our sponsors PetCo Love, BISSELL Pet Foundation, and the Dave and Cherly Duffield Foundation. 
Van Buren County Animal Control Shelter is located at 58040 County Road 681, Hartford, MI 49057 
For further details, follow us on our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/Vanburencountyac

We invite you to take a moment and get to know Chunk. This hunk o' love shows his love complete with drool! Chunk is approximately 4-5 years old and comes with all of his 'bits' attached. But, no worries, we provide you with a spay/neuter certificate to help offset the cost of having those pesky danglies removed! Chunk hasn't been tested with cats or kids, but he has shown he is a friendly gent with our staff and the vet he got to meet for his vaccinations. He knows some basic commands such as 'sit' and 'paw' which he was kind enough to demonstrate without even being asked. (We thought that was pretty cool!)&nbsp;Chunk is a pretty laid-back guy who enjoys naps, but he tends to prefer the floor over his bed. Maybe in time, when he realizes that beds are comfy he will use them, but we aren't forcing him to rush into a decision on that as of yet. He loves pig-ears and chews. He enjoys treats of all kinds&nbsp;and accepts them gently from your hands. We haven't had a lot of time to fully get to know him yet, but so far, we are enjoying our time with him. We think that you will as well if you meet him. He does have a large growth hanging from his back leg, but the vet assures us that a surgery for its removal would be pretty simple. He has such gentle eyes that show a soul looking to be loved. Are you looking for someone to love you as well? Maybe a movie partner? Chunk would love to share late-night movie marathons with you. However, we do suggest that you make him his own bowl of popcorn for movie nights for drool reasons. Chunk&nbsp; is waiting to meet all potential adopters at Van Buren County Animal Control Shelter at 58040 County Road 681 in Hartford.&nbsp;Our phone number is&nbsp;<a href="tel:(269)%20621-4624">269-621-4624</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
Also, don't miss:
<ul>
<li>Saturday, October 17th, 2026 - 9am to 4pm:&nbsp; Free Vaccine Clinic by Van Buren County Animal Control Shelter!</li>
<ul>
<li>MUST be a resident of Van Buren County.&nbsp;</li>
<li>Free for all Van Buren County residents regardless of income.&nbsp;</li>
<li>The free vaccinations are provided by our sponsors PetCo Love, BISSELL Pet Foundation, and the Dave and Cherly Duffield Foundation.&nbsp;</li>
<li>Van Buren County Animal Control Shelter is located at <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/search/58040+County+Road+681,+Hartford,+MI?entry=gmail&amp;source=g">58040 County Road 681, Hartford, MI</a>&nbsp;49057&nbsp;</li>
<li>For further details, follow us on our Facebook page: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Vanburencountyac">https://www.facebook.com/Vanburencountyac</a></li>
</ul>
</ul>

The Mason Jar Cafe Furry Friend of the Week - Chunk

Meet Pickles! Pickles is a medium sized ball of love and playfulness! She is a very chill dog who is always down for some outside time. She loves to explore, smell the outside smells, and take long strolls - she really loves everything! She is snack driven and will sit pretty for them. Her absolute favorite thing is people; she is made to be a lap dog whether invited or not!  If she fits, she sits! She is 50lbs, around 1 years old and up to date on her vaccines. She recently spent the day at Tractor Supply for an adoption event and she did great! She is not afraid of crates and looks at them as her safe space. Her adoption fee is waived, but there still is a $25 spay deposit since she is not yet fixed. She is eagerly waiting to find her forever people to spend her life with! Contact Cass County Animal Control at 269-445-3701 or visit the shelter at 323 M-62, Cassopolis, MI 49031 to learn more about sweet little fuzzy Pickles!

Meet Pickles!&nbsp;Pickles is a medium sized ball of love and playfulness! She is a very chill dog who is always down for some outside time. She loves to explore, smell the outside smells, and take long strolls - she really loves everything! She is snack driven and will sit pretty for them. Her absolute favorite thing is people; she is made to be a lap dog whether invited or not!&nbsp; If she fits, she sits! She is 50lbs, around 1 years old and up to date on her vaccines. She recently spent the day at Tractor Supply for an adoption event and she did great! She is not afraid of crates and looks at them as her safe space. Her adoption fee is waived, but there still is a $25 spay deposit since she is not yet fixed. She is eagerly waiting to find her forever people to spend her life with!&nbsp;Contact Cass County Animal Control at <a href="tel:(269)%20445-3701">269-445-3701</a> or visit the shelter at 323 M-62, Cassopolis, MI 49031 to learn more about sweet little fuzzy Pickles!

The Mason Jar Cafe Furry Friend of the Week - Pickles

Meet Bruno! He is a super lovable Belgian Malinois about 5 years old neutered male. He would love an active family as his new forever home. He is on daily medication for seizures but is very manageable. He loves to explore and meet other furry friends, all while watching the counter for snacks and curling up for a good cuddle. Bruno and all of Animal Aid of Southwestern Michigan's 200+ dogs and cats are available for adoption at animalaidswmi.org, or call 269-934-7729 for more information.  

Also, don't miss:

-9/20 we are joining the humane society for Pups and Pinot at the Boardwalk in St Joseph

-10/3 we are also joining the Humane Society for Doggie Hayrides at Stovers farm in Berrien Springs. 

-10/17 we will be at the Hidden Acres Artisan Market in Dowagiac

-10/24 we will be part of the Berrien Animal Services Trunk-or-Treat

-12/12 we will be hosting our Annual Open House and Silent Auction at the Lincoln Township Library in Stevensville. PS Santa will be here!!!!!

-12/19 Signature Dealer Group in Benton Harbor will be hosting our Christmas Adoption Blowout with as many cats and dogs as possible up for adoption. 

-FuzzyButz Pet Bakery in downtown St Joe every Sunday 1-3pm

Meet Bruno! He is a super lovable Belgian Malinois about 5 years old neutered male. He would love an active family as his new forever home. He is on daily medication for seizures but is very manageable. He loves to explore and meet other furry friends, all while watching the counter for snacks and curling up for a good cuddle.&nbsp;Bruno and all of Animal Aid of Southwestern Michigan's 200+ dogs and cats are available for adoption at&nbsp;<a href="http://animalaidswmi.org/">animalaidswmi.org</a>,&nbsp;or call&nbsp;<a href="tel:(269)%20934-7729">269-934-7729</a>&nbsp;for more information.&nbsp;&nbsp;
Also, don't miss:
-9/20 we are joining the humane society for Pups and Pinot at the Boardwalk in St Joseph
-10/3 we are also joining the Humane Society for Doggie Hayrides at Stovers farm in Berrien Springs.&nbsp;
-10/17 we will be at the Hidden Acres Artisan Market in Dowagiac
-10/24 we will be part of the Berrien Animal Services Trunk-or-Treat
-12/12 we will be hosting our Annual Open House and Silent Auction at the Lincoln Township Library in Stevensville. PS Santa will be here!!!!!
-12/19 Signature Dealer Group in Benton Harbor will be hosting our Christmas Adoption Blowout with as many cats and dogs as possible up for adoption.&nbsp;
-FuzzyButz Pet Bakery in downtown St Joe every Sunday 1-3pm

The Mason Jar Cafe Furry Friend of the Week - Bruno

Fanta is an absolute angel of a dog! He sits politely for treats, likes to relax when he's hanging out in the house, enjoys fetch but also loves playing with other dogs, is usually good on a leash walk, and is so thoroughly house-trained that he comes over to tug gently on the sleeve of the person taking care of him when he needs to go out. He is a two-year-old Boxer-mix, dark brindle and gorgeous! He would do great in a family with kids or other dogs. Fanta is waiting for you at Berrien County Animal Services, 1400 South Euclid Avenue, Benton Harbor, MI 49022, Phone 269-927-5648.

Also, don't miss:
Saturday, September 12th, 2026, 10am-2pm:  Canine-Only Vaccination Clinic at Benton Harbor Fire Department, 200 East Wall Street, Benton Harbor, MI 49022
Sunday, September 20th, 2026, 3pm-7pm:  Puppies & Pinot at The Boardwalk, 1100 Diller Road, Benton Harbor, MI 49022
Saturday, September 26th, 2026, 10am-2pm:  Open House at Berrien County Animal Services, 1400 South Euclid Avenue, Benton Harbor, MI 49022 -- Inviting Current and Interested Volunteers and Fosters.
Saturday, October 24th, 2026, 11am-3pm:  Trunk or Treat at Berrien County Animal Services, 1400 South Euclid Avenue, Benton Harbor, MI 49022

Fanta is an absolute angel of a dog! He sits politely for treats, likes to relax when he's hanging out in the house, enjoys fetch but also loves playing with other dogs, is usually good on a leash walk, and is so thoroughly house-trained that he comes over to tug gently on the sleeve of the person taking care of him when he needs to go out. He is a two-year-old Boxer-mix, dark brindle and gorgeous! He would do great in a family with kids or other dogs. Fanta&nbsp;is waiting for you at Berrien County Animal Services, 1400 South Euclid Avenue, Benton Harbor, MI 49022, Phone&nbsp;<a href="tel:(269)%20927-5648">269-927-5648</a>.
Also, don't miss:
<ul>
<li>Saturday, September 12th, 2026, 10am-2pm:&nbsp; Canine-Only Vaccination Clinic at Benton Harbor Fire Department, 200 East Wall Street, Benton Harbor, MI 49022</li>
<li>Sunday, September 20th, 2026, 3pm-7pm:&nbsp; Puppies &amp; Pinot at The Boardwalk, 1100 Diller Road, Benton Harbor, MI 49022</li>
<li>Saturday, September 26th, 2026, 10am-2pm:&nbsp; Open House at Berrien County Animal Services, 1400 South Euclid Avenue, Benton Harbor, MI 49022 -- Inviting Current and Interested Volunteers and Fosters.</li>
<li>Saturday, October 24th, 2026, 11am-3pm:&nbsp; Trunk or Treat at Berrien County Animal Services, 1400 South Euclid Avenue, Benton Harbor, MI 49022</li>
</ul>

The Mason Jar Cafe Furry Friend of the Week - Fanta

Toby is a 2 1/2-year-old mixed breed dog weighing 53 lbs. He is up to date on all vaccines, microchipped, neutered, and ready to go home! He loves playing with toys and running around the yard. Toby would do best as the only dog in his household. Contact the Humane Society of Southwestern Michigan at 269-927-3303 to schedule an appointment to meet Toby and learn more about him.

Toby is a 2 1/2-year-old mixed breed dog weighing 53 lbs. He is up to date on all vaccines, microchipped, neutered, and ready to go home! He loves playing with toys and running around the yard. Toby would do best as the only dog in his household.&nbsp;Contact the Humane Society of Southwestern Michigan at&nbsp;<a href="tel:(269)%20927-3303">269-927-3303</a>&nbsp;to schedule an appointment to meet Toby and learn more about him.

The Mason Jar Cafe Furry Friend of the Week - Toby

Meet Summer! This beautiful 2-year-old girl has recently come to us after a 2-month stay with her last adopter. Now, don't let this scare you off! This girl is an absolute joy and it is due to personal extenuating circumstances that her owner has been unable to keep her. She is wonderful with children and people of all ages. She gets along very well with other dogs but we are unsure about her friendliness towards cats. She is crate trained and potty trained and is definitely snuggle trained. When it is time to go out she will let you know with some firm barks. Summer absolutely loves to play ball and spend time with humans getting cuddles. With her young age she is very active and will definitely need a fenced yard to play. She likes to take herself on walks that have not been authorized by her humans so she needs to be closely watched. On her ventures she is friendly and greets everybody with a wagging tail. However, we all know puppy dogs cannot do that and stay safe. We are looking for a home for Summer so that she continues to experience family life with as little time in the shelter as possible. Her only downfall is that she does get some separation anxiety when her humans leave, which can lead to destruction of some items she's not allowed to play with. With firm training and some patience from her humans this should be something that can be overcome easily. Summer is excited to meet all potential adopters who visit her at the Van Buren County Animal Control Shelter at 58040 County Road 681 in Hartford. Our phone number is 269-621-4624.

Meet Summer! This beautiful 2-year-old girl has recently come to us after a 2-month stay with her last adopter. Now, don't let this scare you off! This girl is an absolute joy and it is due to personal extenuating circumstances that her owner has been unable to keep her. She is wonderful with children and people of all ages. She gets along very well with other dogs but we are unsure about her friendliness towards cats. She is crate trained and potty trained and is definitely snuggle trained. When it is time to go out she will let you know with some firm barks.&nbsp;Summer absolutely loves to play ball and spend time with humans getting cuddles. With her young age she is very active and will definitely need a fenced yard to play. She likes to take herself on walks that have not been authorized by her humans so she needs to be closely watched. On her ventures she is friendly and greets everybody with a wagging tail. However, we all know puppy dogs cannot do that and stay safe.&nbsp;We are looking for a home for Summer so that she continues to experience family life with as little time in the shelter as possible. Her only downfall is that she does get some separation anxiety when her humans leave, which can lead to destruction of some items she's not allowed to play with. With firm training and some patience from her humans this should be something that can be overcome easily.&nbsp;Summer is excited to meet all potential adopters who visit her at the Van Buren County Animal Control Shelter at 58040 County Road 681 in Hartford.&nbsp;Our phone number is&nbsp;269-621-4624.

The Mason Jar Cafe Furry Friend of the Week - Summer

JAILBREAK! Meet Kevin, the 5yr old Labrador/Shar-pei mix who just busted out of prison. Kevin has spent the last 10 weeks in a prison training program learning all sorts of new tricks. He knows a great number of commands such as sit, shake, down, heel, high five, and roll over. He loves to play with other dogs and even gets along with cats. He is described as a 'people person'; he did not find anyone he didn't love and would make a great family dog. Kevin would make a great cuddle buddy, and don't let his age scare you because he has the activity level of a 1yr old! Kevin has a long report card of him being the best boy ever. He has so many great qualities that you just have to see in person. All he needs is to find a home to call his own and bust out of jail for a second time. Since he is already neutered his adoption fee is waived! Come to the shelter and meet 'Big Kev' and see what kind of love he can bring into your home. Contact Cass County Animal Control at 269-445-3701 or visit the shelter at 323 M-62, Cassopolis, MI 49031 to learn more about Kevin!

JAILBREAK! Meet Kevin, the 5yr old Labrador/Shar-pei mix who just busted out of prison. Kevin has spent the last 10 weeks in a prison training program learning all sorts of new tricks. He knows a great number of commands such as sit, shake, down, heel, high five, and roll over. He loves to play with other dogs and even gets along with cats. He is described as a 'people person'; he did not find anyone he didn't love and would make a great family dog. Kevin would make a great cuddle buddy, and don't let his age scare you because he has the activity level of a 1yr old! Kevin has a long report card of him being the best boy ever. He has so many great qualities that you just have to see in person. All he needs is to find a home to call his own and bust out of jail for a second time. Since he is already neutered his adoption fee is waived! Come to the shelter and meet 'Big Kev' and see what kind of love he can bring into your home.&nbsp;Contact Cass County Animal Control at 269-445-3701 or visit the shelter at 323 M-62, Cassopolis, MI 49031 to learn more about Kevin!

The Mason Jar Cafe Furry Friend of the Week - Kevin

Every Friday morning, we feature adoptable animals on our Mid-West Family stations and podcasts!

Every Friday morning, we feature adoptable animals on our Mid-West Family stations and podcasts!

Furry Friends Friday

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