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.

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About Helen Woodward Animal Center : Helen Woodward Animal Center is a private, non-profit organization where “people help animals and animals help people.” Founded in 1972 in Rancho Santa Fe, Calif., the Center provides services for more than 57,000 people and thousands of animals annually through adoptions, educational and therapeutic programs both onsite and throughout the community. Helen Woodward Animal Center is also the creator of the international Home 4 the Holidays pet adoption drive and the Animal Center Education Services program, teaching the business of saving lives to animal welfare leaders from around the world.