Giving Back -- Why Volunteer?

I have loved animals since I was very young. Animal Planet was one of the the only things I watched on TV, and I constantly was borrowing books from the library about dogs -- my favorite animal to study. By the time I was 13, I could identify the breed of nearly every dog I met. I had absolutely no fear of any dog I encountered, always bending down and greeting any canine that made it's way to me. My parents and friends always said I had a way with dogs. I liked to think they were right.


A few years later, I picked up photography. Immediately, I fell in love with the way I could capture beauty in even the simplest of things. A tree. A flower. A dog.


Upon visiting our local Humane Society, I realized that was where I should be. I offered my photography abilities and after a few pictures I was asked to continue. I now take pictures of available dogs, cats, and shelter events I attend.

Nothing brings me more joy than catching the perky, cute sides of the animals I photograph. My hope is that I can help bring positive attention to these homeless animals and that through my photography, I can increase their chances of finding a loving home.

I've been asked several times why I do something so often that I never get paid for. My answer?
I do get paid; in slobbery kisses and happy animals. And that's enough payment for me.