Cute, four-legged models strut their stuff at New York Fashion Week
Saving lives never goes out of style!
Inspired by Fashion Week hitting runways throughout New York, the team at Helen Woodward Animal Center decided to show off the swankier-sides of their adoptable friends with a furry fashion photo shoot. The photos, taken by volunteer photographer Ricki Douglas, are meant to display the sweet dispositions of these available pets and encourage potential adopters to see them, not as abandoned animals, but rather, as beloved (and fashionable!) family members.
“There have been numerous reports citing the difference between adoption rates when a great photo is taken of an orphaned animal vs. a photo showing the same animal in less flattering surroundings,” said Jessica Gercke, PR Manager and spokesperson for Helen Woodward Animal Center. “People have a hard time imagining bringing a rescue into their home when they see an image of the animal looking unhappy and behind bars. The fashion photo shoot allowed us to highlight the gentle nature and true beauty in each of these potential pets.”
Ricki Douglas, of Ricki Douglas Photography, jumped at the fashion shoot idea. Her volunteer efforts, taking weekly heart-warming Pet-of-the-Week photos for Helen Woodward Animal Center, have already seen an increase in turn-around time for placing abandoned animals. “The fashion shoot was a wonderful experience,” stated Douglas. “One after another, these amazing animals would come in and just charm us. We laughed and enjoyed them so much. I think the photos really captured their endearing personalities.”
Haute Couture is a thrill on the runway and the latest fashion trend is always in demand, but the true love of a devoted companion is something that will simply never go out of style.
If you are interested in adopting, would like to make a donation, or would like more information, please contact Helen Woodward Animal Center Adoption Department at: 858-756-4117 ext. 313, visit www.animalcenter.org or stop by at 6461 El Apajo Road in Rancho Santa Fe.
WOW, WOW, WOW ! The video and the photos are out and out FANTASTIC ! Makes you want each and every one of these precious souls. I am sharing it on facebook, and e mailing it to two friends whose furry family members have recently passed over the rainbow bridge. These photos motivated me to send them to my friends, and hopefully it will motivate them to come to Helen Woodward and adopt. Bottom line: these photos ARE MOTIVATORS ! Congratulations.
Thanks for the feedback, Luanne! You just might help someone find a new home because you are thoughtful enough to share this! If your friends need any help, please feel free to send them our way. ~Marcie