After volunteering for a number of hours at the Wake County Animal Center, I have concluded that these animals come from all over. For example, some people find the animals on the streets or near their houses or apartment buildings. Some people bring their animals in because they are unable to care for them any longer. Animal Control finds some of the animals and brings them into the center. Some people bring the animals in because they are moving and cannot take the animal with them and sadly, I know some people bring the animals in because they simply do not want the animal any longer. Whatever the reason, many, many animals come to the Wake County Animal Center. These animals come from all over the Wake County area. It is hard to fathom just how many animals are at the center until you've seen it with your own two eyes. Until this class, I did not know people brought so many animals into the center. For example, when I arrived with my classmates one day, we saw several people dropping off animals. I then realized what an emotional time this can be for those people dropping off animals. One lady was crying as the man with her comforted her that they were doing the right thing. Many people have sad looks on their faces as they bring the animals in and although this is a very sad thing to watch, it is something that I feel as though everyone should see. At first you think, "How could someone get rid of such a cute, loving animal?" There are many reasons and I have learned that you cannot be judgmental. People have many reasons for bringing the animals and some animals are found and brought into the center. I never thought in a million years that my tender heart could handle working at an animal center; however, now, I cannot imagine not having this opportunity. Each day that I go in, I tell myself, "Brittany, your classmates and you are doing a good thing for many animals." It is very hard not to cry; however, I just keep reminding myself that we are doing the greatest good for the greatest number of animals.
This is a photograph of Parson. I am most proud of this picture. I met Parson on May 18th, 2012 when I went alone to the Wake County Animal Center. I was very nervous because I did not know if I would be able to take pictures of the dogs without a partner. Parson is a very sweet, loving, and energetic dog. I was so happy that I caught this expression on Parson's face because this totally sums up Parson's personality. This photograph captures the catch lights, Parson does not look fearful, Parson looks adoptable (in my personal opinion), and Parson has an expression and is looking at the camera. I was very pleased with the way this photograph turned out; most importantly, I was pleased that I caught the dog's personality on camera as this is so important in the adoption process!
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Parson 71536
Photo Courtesy of Brittany Murray
Photo Taken: May 18th, 2012
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I agree with you it is hard sometimes being in the shelter and trying not to cry. I have a hard time not having break downs while I'm there but just like you I tell myself what good myself and the class are doing. But I did have a break down the other day when I got home and again had to remind myself the good I was doing. Just keep strong girl we are all here for each other so if you ever need to talk to someone that is feeling the same as you I am here for you! I love your picture of Parson! You captures his cuteness so well and I love how you got him smiling! A suggestion would be to use the cloning tool we learned about to get his eye gunk off his face and out of his eyes but other than that your image was very successful!
ReplyDeleteIt is extremely hard not to cry but I keep reminding myself (just like you and our other classmates do) that we are doing a good thing. It is nice that we have a support system and can talk with one another about our experiences. I am sorry that you had a breakdown; I too had one in the car just the other day. I am glad you like the picture of Parson. I thought that picture showed his personality off well! I'm glad you said something about the cloning tool. I tried to use the tool but it still would not take this off his face. Thank you for your suggestion!
DeleteI was surprised to find out all the ways an animal could find its way to Wake County Animal Shelter! I think most people think the animals there are unwanted pets that their owners dropped off. The animals could be stray or picked up by animal control because of abuse, neglect, or hoarding.
ReplyDeleteThis picture of Parson is great! His eye stand out and make the viewer focus on his face. You did a great job of capturing his personality! I agree with Kayley about trying to use the cloning tool to get the gunk off of his face! The picture looks really great and makes Parson look very adoptable!
You are so right. Many people do believe they are just unwanted pets; however, we know much more what goes on "behind the scenes" and I'm so glad we have had the opportunity to learn more about the center! I am glad you like the picture of Parson. His personality is truly remarkable. What a sweet dog! I tried to use the cloning tool but I was unsuccessful. I am going to ask for help in class on Wednesday. I am glad that this picture makes Parson look adoptable...this dog is just as sweet and loving as cute!
DeleteBeautiful post. I love the way you phrased "we are doing the greatest good for the greatest number of animals." This is a powerful statement and an excellent reminder of why it is best not to adopt while you are in this class. Thank you for sharing your compassion and empathy—with both humans and other animals. This is a moving post.
ReplyDeleteProfessor Johnstone, thank you! The statement about the greatest good for the greatest number of animals is what I tell myself daily. It's my reminder when I begin to feel sad or upset. This one statement can completely turn my day around! I can definitely understand not adopting while in the class. I love to help not only other humans but animals as well and this is a very fitting class for me! Thank you!
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