The Thumb Animal Shelter, established in 1996, is located in a quiet country setting in the farming community of Elkton, Michigan. It is a small, county subsidized, dog only shelter consisting of 12 runs. The shelter is owned and operated by Deen Forster.
It was founded by Deen and her late husband, Ron Forster. Together they shared over 40 years experience with dogs in breeding, showing and training along with operating a boarding kennel for many years. Their son, Mike, is involved at the shelter as well, making it still a family endeavor. 
Harboring a lifetime passion for dogs, they are dedicated to saving the lives of as many of the homeless dogs in Huron County as they can. This experience enables them to expertly evaluate each dog for health, temperament, and trainability, helping to assure that each adoption is successful.