it struck me

last night that i've been working at the shelter since the beginning of May.  Not quite 3 months.  Not quite three months!  Good Lord.

This isn't the same life, since i've been going there.  I've changed my thinking about so many things...become aware of so much.  It's a genuine experience of helplessness...fighting a tide of tragedy.  but it's also a learning experience and one of increasingly frequent joy.  the little core of dedicated volunteers is growing.  more dogs are getting out for walks more frequently.  we're able to focus extra attention on the most needy.  adoptions are at an all time high because of increasing awareness in the community.

i've been careful not to identify myself or the shelter or even the state where all this has happened.  it's a universal issue.  i want it to feel like it's your back yard, cause, trust me, it is.  but i want to tell you about a program here that's making a difference.  maybe you'll want to try something like it.

two concerned women formed a non-profit whose work it is to change the way that shelter animals are perceived.  they take "glamor shots" of the animals as they come up for adoption.  bathed and brushed and wearing bow ties or pearl necklaces, seated on wicker chairs or outside on the lawn, they're photographed by professionals who donate their time and efforts for the cause.  there's a facebook page where the animals are featured and it's updated with the good news as adoptions occur.  and of course the exposure increases exponentially as viewers "like" the site or share the photos on their own pages.  the shelter uses the same photos on their website, so instead of the usual cowering-in-the-corner black and white pictures you're used to seeing, there are these charming, tongue-lolling, sweet looking critters that are easy to imagine curled up on your couch or playing with your kids.

maybe it sounds like a small thing, but like i said, adoptions are at an all time high.  it takes dedication and effort.  it takes volunteer support.  and it works.

if you'd like more information, contact me by using the "comment" button below.
i'll be happy to tell you more.