It was an epic day for the dogs and cats and the people who love them.
For the first time in county shelter history, every single adoptable dog and cat at both the East and West Valley Animal Care Center got out of their kennel on the same day for both a walk and a glamor photo.
The national nonprofit organization HeARTs Speak helped execute the first Seen=Saved event in Los Angeles this past July, and was brought in to help run the endeavor by sponsors Community Canine Project and Two Pups Wellness Fund on Feb. 29
Organizers estimate more than 500 dogs and cats from both shelters were highlighted by some 40 photographers and more than 60 staff and volunteers.
“Creating an opportunity to not only get every adoptable animal out of their kennel in one day, but also to have beautiful photos taken of each to help showcase these animals is something we are truly” grateful to do, said Nancy Silver of Two Pups Wellness Fund.
Photographers created profiles of every pet through photos, video clips or even short descriptions in some cases. Those photos and videos will be available for potential adopters and used to market the dogs. The images also will be used during a special March 14 adoption event at both shelters facilities. The adoption fees of dogs more than 20 pounds will be sponsored by Two Pups and Community Canine Project.
“It’s undeniable that great photos help pets get adopted faster,” said Lisa Prince Fishler, Executive Director of the HeARTs Speak.
Mary Martin, the shelter’s director, said it was a privilege to have the groups chose Maricopa County for the event. “These volunteer photographers are true artists whose passion is shown through their dedication to our homeless animals. We are honored to have the team here at our community shelters.”
To see a gallery of the photos, please visit https://heartsspeak.smugmug.com/SeenSavedPhoenix/