Animal shelter in Pleasanton may have to close

PLEASANTON, Calif. (KGO) -- An East Bay animal shelter that has assisted cats and dogs for more than two decades is on the brink of closing. The Valley Humane Society said it needs to raise $125,000 in the next 30 days, or it might have to cut employees, programs and close its shelter in Pleasanton.

"Right now we are dealing with a really tough financial situation," said Valley Humane Society Executive Dir. Melanie Sadek.

The shelter has seen its financial situation go from serious to dire -- which has prompted an appeal to the public for help.

"If you don't get significant help, what will you be forced to do?" asked ABC7's Nick Smith.

"We will be forced to close the doors," said Sadek.

The society has a $500,000 operating budget per year of which 98 percent comes from public donations, which are down this year by more than 31 percent.

"And unfortunately we just can't compensate on our own anymore. We really need help," said Sadek.

In an effort to reduce costs, VHS has lowered the number of animals that they care for. The non-profit only staffs two full-time employees and relies on more than 250 volunteers. It is the only no-kill shelter in Pleasanton.

"We would love $1. Any amount would help us. If everyone would give us a $1, even in the Tri-Valley alone we would be absolutely set," said Sadek.

All donations to the shelter, even those at $1, are tax deductable.

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