One of my favorite quotes, by Gandhi,  is “be the change you want to see in the world”.  However, I had no idea where to start.  Completely stumped.  And frankly, pretty bummed that nothing stuck out to me as a way I could make a change.

Then I had Gigi (my pup) in the studio the other day and it occurred to me to take the skills I’ve honed over the past year and use those to make a difference.  While I’m not going to help any global or national problems, I figured out a way to make a little change.  I’ve started volunteering at Macon County Animal Control & Care Center, in conjunction with Decatur & Macon County Animal Shelter Foundation to photograph the pets currently waiting for homes.  Working closely with them, and volunteer Beth Wallace of Miti Fine Dog Training, we hope to get all the pets (cats & dogs) photographed & blogged.

I’ve spent a few hours out there photographing 24 dogs in desperate need of homes.  I spent the next few hours debating how to bring home 24 dogs.  Dan would divorce me (and probably keep the dogs).  We started with the seniors, added in dogs that have been there long term (6 months or more), and sprinkled in a few volunteer favorites.  It was amazing, exhilarating, therapeutic, and calming.

All of these pets have stories, which brings me to “the change”.  As I photograph them, I’ll also be blogging them, to try to bring awareness to these amazing animals.    What I ask of all of you is to help me.  Please share these links, like their Facebook pages and posts, and consider adopting a shelter pet if you are in a position to do so.

Coming soon, you’ll be seeing a few blog posts about the dogs I met & the volunteers.  In the coming months, you’ll hopefully meet all of the adorable pets that are strays, or sadly, owner surrendered.  There are dozens of dogs in need or homes, and over a hundred cats residing there.  Help me make a change in their lives, and the lives of the people that adopt them.  I have no doubt that change can be made.  Let’s do this!