Fundraiser Underway To Save East Bay Animal Shelter

PLEASANTON (CBS 5) -- Over the past 25 years, it has saved thousands of animals from certain death. Now the Valley Humane Society in Pleasanton needs to do the same for itself.

On Wednesday, the shelter began a month-long fundraiser, with hopes the money will buy them time to regroup and come up with a long-term plan. The goal is to collect $125,000 in 30 days.

The Valley Humane Society saw donations drop amid increasing costs of pet food and supplies. Last year, donations were down 25 percent and 31 percent so far in 2011. The shelter relies almost exclusively on donations.

Since 1987, the Valley Humane Society has been rescuing dogs and cats from euthanasia at overcrowded shelters. Over time, they branched out to offer innovative programs such as "Paws to Read," where children practice reading to dogs.

The services the shelter provides are all in danger of getting cut, and the shelter could eventually close. Beds have been empty for weeks because they can't afford to take on any more animals

Since putting out the call for help, people have been phoning in and dropping off donations. So far, several thousand dollars have been raised.

Information on donating to the shelter can be found at http://valleyhumanesociety.org.

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