A love letter to the dogs of Northern Michigan, created to support Little Traverse Bay Humane Society.
Dear Dogs:
Portraits & Stories
Created in partnership with Little Traverse Bay Humane Society, this project brought together dogs from all over Northern Michigan to give back to the animals still waiting for their chance.
1 limited-edition hardcover book
31 Northern Michigan dogs featured
Over $18,000 raised for LTBHS
04 • Weekly mini-contests
Each week, the pet with the most new votes that week wins a prize donated by a local pet-friendly business.
03 • Win big
The 13 pets with the most votes win a professional photo session and a feature in the 2028 Cherryland Humane Society Calendar. The pet with the most votes also snags the coveted cover spot!
02 • Rally the votes
Share your pet's entry and encourage friends and family to vote ($1 per vote) to help your pet climb the leaderboard.
01 • Enter your pet
Upload your favorite photo of your pet for a $5 donation.
Here’s how it works
How it came together
$25 + shipping
The 2027 calendar is here
Twelve months of Northern Michigan's cutest calendar stars, and every purchase supports Cherryland Humane Society. Available to purchase online now.
featured dogs
Meet some of the
Little Traverse Bay Humane Society is a 501(c)(3) organization.
In partnership with Little Traverse Bay Humane Society
All proceeds from book sales and cover contest donations go directly to little traverse bay Humane Society.
Capturing the love and joy pets bring into our lives is at the heart of what I do, and I'm thrilled to partner with Cherryland Humane Society year after year for this fundraiser. I can't wait to see who enters next!
on your walls
One month in the spotlight is just the beginning.
“Amanda Lewis came to our house in June to do a photo shoot of our dog Stella and her supporting cast, our family. Stella doesn’t care to have her picture taken… using her strong skills, Amanda was able to capture the essence of Stella… We are so happy with the stunning collage now sitting on our fireplace mantel!”
"Amanda was able to capture the essence of Stella."
Bonnie
"As part of a photo fundraiser for Cherryland Humane Society, my dog, Daisy got the chance to have a photoshoot with Amanda. Amanda was great to work with and I appreciated her clear communication throughout the planning process! She collected great info up front about Daisy so that the shoot would be a success. On the day of the shoot, she was super prepared and captured many cute moments of Daisy. I was excited to see the photos and appreciate the keepsake print we now have! Thank you!"
"I appreciated her clear communication throughout the planning process!"
Kristina
A few things people ask
Frequently asked questions
Can I enter more than one pet?
Absolutely, but there is a limit of one pet per photo entry. Each pet must be entered individually. People are not allowed in photos, only your pet. Photos that don't follow the rules will be removed and won't be eligible to win, with no opportunity for a refund.
Does my dog have to be a rescue to enter?
All breeds from all backgrounds are welcome and encouraged to enter. Submit your favorite photo of your pet and ask your family and friends to vote!
What can I win?
The top 13 vote-getters win. First place wins the coveted cover spot, and 2nd through 13th place are each featured as a pet of the month. All 13 winners will have their pet professionally photographed for the calendar, with the option to upgrade to a full session and/or purchase artwork afterward. Each week, the pet with the most new votes that week also wins a mini-contest prize from one of our sponsoring businesses.
What is the reserve-a-grid-space option?
Honor your pet or celebrate a gotcha day or birthday by reserving an empty grid space (before or after the numbered squares) for their photo. Choose a favorite photo and a month, and pay. Each month has a limited number of squares, filled on a first come, first served basis.
When and where will sessions take place?
Complimentary calendar sessions are held on pre-determined dates in April at a pre-determined outdoor location. Upgraded sessions are held at select locations around the Grand Traverse area between April and July. Exact details are provided to winners when the contest ends.
How is the money raised used?
All proceeds from contest entries, votes, and calendar sales directly support Cherryland Humane Society in rescuing and re-homing animals in Traverse City and the surrounding areas.
If I win, can I purchase artwork from my session?
Absolutely, and while there is no obligation, many calendar winners choose to! Calendars are not included with the session, but they can be purchased when they become available online. All calendar sale proceeds are donated to Cherryland Humane Society.
For complete rules and eligibility requirements, please review the official Contest Rules.
All-natural treats with a mission-driven heart.
Archie's Dog Co
Pet boutique bridging the gap between quality dog gear and affordable, handmade products.
Contigo Dogs
Northern Michigan's dog-friendly social pub. Drink beer, pet dogs!
K&A Hop Dogs
Fine artist and graphic designer, capturing the spirit of pets through beautiful oil paintings.
Kat Dakota, Fine Artist
Traverse City's indoor/outdoor dog-park cafe and taphouse.
Two Brothers
Michigan's top-rated winery and estate, in the heart of Northern Michigan's Traverse Wine Coast.
Black Star Farms
Northern Michigan's only holistic pet supply store.