Art to the Rescue

In 2024, I started the Rescue Dog Project art and advocacy campaign as a way to get the message out that rescues and rescuers are strained. We hear about rescuing the dogs, but rescuers are drowning in overcrowded facilities with little to no support. And the problems run even deeper.

My publishing background motivates me to create a hub for information – not just about adoption, but about every facet of rescue. The parts that are celebrated, and the parts that are often overlooked, but require attention to create change!

Rescue isn't just adoption stories and happy endings. It's:

• overcrowded shelter challenges

• the emotional toll on rescuers and volunteers

• difficult, misunderstood decisions like euthanasia

• the psychological realities, including burnout and hoarding situations

• and the ongoing struggle to find fosters, adopters, and volunteers

I know this because I was one of those volunteers, and met other volunteers, and too many people that couldn't even volunteer because of how sad it is! This project was built to hold all of that truth in one place – clearly, honestly – and responsibly – to encourage people to change their minds, and even get involved in the change! When you know what to expect, you can arm yourself!

Art & Advocacy

As a graphic artist, this is where I knew I could try to help. Creating images that are intentionally uncomfortable, and bold, to force reflection on the problem. Share them.

I love art and creating, but the intention was always to include other artists. I wanted to build a space that highlights creatives who are using their work to support rescue dogs, raise awareness, and in many cases, give back through donations or partnerships.

We will be:

• Featuring artists who create dog-focused work, or donate proceeds to rescues

• Having contests for kids that want to create artwork that advocates for pets, including chances to earn community rescue donations, have their artwork printed on a poster, and a chance to show-off their original, creative artwork in upcoming rescue campaigns to lawmakers and community leaders.

Artwork will not only be celebrated—it will help carry important messages forward.

If you’re an artist, a writer, a volunteer, or someone who cares about this space and can answer a call to inform, inspire or move someone to act, this is for you!

Every piece of art, and every contribution will play a role in shaping how people understand rescue.

That responsibility matters.

Do you have something you'd like to submit that will help inform, inspire, or move someone toward helping end the pet crisis? ​Please email: Info@therescuedogproject.com

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Your voice can help shift perspectives, encourage people to adopt successfully, volunteer confidently, advocate freely, inform rationally, and collaborate openly to help end the pet crisis in our own communities.