DAHG BLAHG: 2008

6.10.2008

STREET DOGS

These are portraits of dogs from the book STREET DOGS by Traer Scott.

Traer Scott travelled to Puerto Rico and Mexico to capture remarkable and soulful photographs of dogs living alone or in packs on city streets. Since many street dogs were formerly pets, they are often friendly, approachable and eager to be adopted into new homes. The small island of Puerto Rico is estimated to have between 200,000 and 300,000 dogs roaming the streets.

Some of the saddest parts of the book take place at Dead Dog Beach. Dogs are dumped there daily and the atrocities range from abandonment to severe abuse and torture: a litter of puppies and their mother had been run over purposely by teenagers, a male dog had hot oil thrown over him, another dog hacked with a machete!!

The book made me cry! It is full of stories of sad dogs that have been neglected, beaten, abused, ignored, tortured. Why?! They are perfect examples of unconditional love! They will keep coming back, forgiving and loving--needing love and having so much to give. There are also BEAUTIFUL and wonderful stories in the book too about kindness and compassion.

I picked up the book because I saw it was about dogs and I wanted to draw them, but, once I got into it, I knew I could help in my way too! :)

ANYWAY---if you are interested in purchasing a hand painted printout---send $50 with your name and address to my paypal account

xoxine@gmail.com

I will include shipping in the $50-and the rest will go right to the foundation.

Traer Scott says : Although there is some practical truth in the saying "first the people, then the animals," if followed blindly, it becomes a mantra of apathy and avoidance. Compassion is a key element of being human and it does not dictate that you should choose between feeding your child or feeding your dog, nor does it condone violence or abuse from the abused and beaten...a global synergy is taking place. All over the world, geographically scattered but ethically united rescuers and educators are ushering in a new era of compassion and kindness toward the animals with whom we share our lives. This is true grassroots activism in its purest form and should serve to inspire anyone who thinks that one person cannot make a difference."

Oh yeah! Go Traer! :)