I must take this opportunity to wag my own tail and toot my own horn …just a little bit! I was super excited to find out that I have been chosen as the SPCA of Texas Volunteer of the Month. I was asked to write a short paragraph as to why I choose to volunteer at the SPCA and that really got me thinking about my time spent at the shelter. I started looking back through all of the photos of shelter animals that I’ve taken, and began remembering each animal. I couldn’t believe how many cats, dogs, and rabbits I had met while volunteering – I was surprised to find out that I have photographed over 850 shelter animals to date here in Dallas. As I went through the old photos I started picking out a couple of my favorites and decided to put together a little tribute to all the shelter animals. It brings me such happiness to know that each of these critters has found their forever, loving home.
I want to share with you the paragraph that was sent out in the SPCA newsletter that I feel really sums up my response to the question: Why do you choose to volunteer at animal shelters?
Hello, I’m Allison – a Dallas based pet photographer. I absolutely love what I do for a living and am so lucky to be given the opportunity to capture the spirit and personality of so many different animals. I volunteer at the SPCA because it brings such joy to me knowing that I might have had a hand in finding an animal their forever home. Pets, no matter how big or small, are always ready to give you their unconditional love, loyalty, and trust. It is only fair that we give them our unconditional love in return. I am committed to helping shelter animals in any way possible – after all they are the best of the best, and most of the time love you even more because they know they have been given a second chance at life. I adore my rescue dog – a one eyed blue heeler mutt, who is the most handsome dog in Texas… it’s true! I even named my business after him: Blue Mutt Photography – he is definitely living the life he deserved to have. Since starting at the SPCA of Texas I have photographed over 850 animals is hopes of helping them along their journey. Believe me it has been hard to not take them all home with me, but I have loved every minute of it!
On a side note: this article went out just a few days before we adopted Layla, so that is why she is not mentioned in my bio. However, I have big plans for Layla’s involvement in my business – don’t you worry. Willie isn’t the only one who will hold sole naming rights to my business. I’ll keep you posted and an update on Layla is coming soon!
