Book shows the joys of pets from shelters

October 9, 2008

As a gesture of thanks for hard work during Hurricanes Gustav and Ike, the CEO of the Louisiana SPCA, Ana Zorrilla, recently gave staff members a copy of the book "Mutts, Shelter Stories: Love Guaranteed" by cartoonist Patrick McDonnell. I hesitated before reading the book because I didn't want to be reminded of the painful parts of working at an animal shelter, where so many animals need homes and some never find one.

The book includes comic strip panels depicting thoughts that McDonnell imagines shelter pets must have while waiting to find a home. The panels are interspersed with photographs and stories about companion animals that have been adopted from shelters across the country.

When I finally opened the book, it was an epiphany. I realized my fear of being sad is not unlike the fear I've heard folks share about entering an animal shelter. I realized that such fear is unfounded, because when I opened the book I felt joy and peace at seeing some of the most wonderful, beautiful, happy and amazing animal companions. It was especially heartwarming to see former LA/SPCA alumni Guffy featured in the book. Guffy was adopted from the shelter in November 2006 after being found neglected in one of the worst Katrina-damaged areas.

When you visit an animal shelter, you will have the opportunity to adopt an amazing four-legged friend. You'll find yourself feeling lucky, blessed and honored that this creature picked you.

Timing is everything. My epiphany coincides with October being Adopt a Shelter Dog Month, and I can't think of any better reason for everyone to visit an animal shelter and bring home an amazing companion for life. When you enter a shelter you'll be amazed, but when you walk out the doors with your new best friend you'll feel a joy that's nothing short of euphoria.

- Gloria Dauphin

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