The initiative aims to provide a virtual makeover to dogs that are most in need, such as those who have been residing in shelters for extended periods, older dogs with health issues or disabilities, medium or large dogs, dogs with dark coats, and breeds with lower adoption rates like Pitbulls, Labrador Retrievers, and German Shepherds.
Since the program launched in mid-November, the Pixel Pawtraits team has been present at shelters in San Diego, New York, and Atlanta, with plans to visit more in the upcoming weeks. Shelters are chosen based on several criteria, including their mission, nonprofit status, and most importantly whether they are no-kill shelters, meaning healthy or treatable animals are not euthanized due to time limits or capacity.
Lauren, who manages The Animal Pad’s social media pages, explains, “When a dog’s personality shines through in a photo and someone can truly connect with them, that’s what paves the way for their rescue. And that can make all the difference.”