GERMAN FLATTS, N.Y. (WKTV) - The Herkimer County Humane Society marked its 100th anniversary on Wednesday.

Over the past century, thousands of dogs and cats that have been abandoned, hurt, or lost have been able to get the medical attention and care they need at the shelter before being adopted into a loving home.

"Without this building, our county would be in dire straits and we would be overrun with all these animals because there is nobody taking care of them," said Susan Gokey, President of the Herkimer County Humane Society. "Nobody making sure they spayed and neutered, it would be a great big fiasco."

The Humane Society now houses close to 40 dogs and 40 cats, but that hasn't always been the case.

A century ago the shelter began in a small home on the property that's since been demolished. Over the years, construction of the building and expansions have led to a facility with eight employees and a list of more than 100 volunteers; a list that continues to grow.

As a fundraiser, the Herkimer County Humane Society will be hosting a "100th Birthday Gala" May 10 at the Holland Heights Golf Course in Herkimer. Tickets are $90 per couple. You can call (315) 866-3255 for more information.

For more information on the many animals ready for a loving home, you can visit www.herkhumane.org