Ban ignorance, not breeds

I spent several hours shooting with Chris and our friend Blue for the Greater Akron Humane Society yesterday. And here's what struck me: Pit bulls. Dozens of them.


A humane society volunteer gets some love from a beautiful female pit bull


A boxer pouts behind its cage

And more pit bulls...



And more pit bulls...



And more pit bulls...



And of course...a husky.



I shake my head as I type. So many dogs in the world go to homes of people who do not understand the breed. Or, as is the case with pit bulls, they blatantly abuse an entire breed for their own greed, with dog fighting, etc. So many shelters are full of the same types of breeds: pit bulls (confiscated, misunderstood, abused, or the remains of a life "off track"), beagles (notorious runners), huskies (notorious runners and escape artists).

And cats.



Beautiful cats, discarded.



Cats, all eyes.



Cats, waiting for us humans to get it right.



Please, ban pet stores: adopt a shelter animal. And don't discriminate based on breed.

The Heart of a Dog
If only we all had the heart of a dog, we would learn stuff like

When loved ones come home, always run to greet them.

Never pass up the opportunity to go for a joyride.

Allow the experience of fresh air and the wind in your face to be pure ecstasy.

When it's in your best interest - practice obedience.

Let others know when they've invaded your territory.

Take naps and stretch before rising.

Run, romp, and play daily.

Thrive on attention and let people touch you.

Avoid biting, when a simple growl will do.

On warm days, stop to lie on your back on the grass.

On hot days, drink lots of water and lay under a shady tree.

When you're happy, dance around and wag your entire body.

No matter how often you're scolded, don't buy into the guilt thing and pout run right back and make friends.

Delight in the simple joy of a long walk.

Eat with gusto and enthusiasm. Stop when you have had enough.

Be loyal.

Never pretend to be something you're not.

If what you want lies buried, dig until you find it.

When someone is having a bad day, be silent, sit close by and nuzzle them gently.

This piece was taken from Canine Crusaders