When I started volunteering at the Animal Rescue Fund (ARF) as their photographer, I was fully aware the one or two of these dogs would become our new family members. Never did I realize the impact those dogs would have on my life.
My heart immediately fell for my sweet Sadie, but it wasn't until I actually met Kuma (formerly Tiger) that I realized why he was so loved at the shelter. The owner of the shelter found Kuma, scared, tired, starving, and at the brink of giving up. Was he abused? Was he neglected? Did he ever have a family? Whatever he was... he was saved, and instantly he found himself around people who cared about him. Several people who worked at the shelter were the ones that nursed Kuma back to health and everyone there loved him. But, they all questioned weather or not Kuma's fate was to live and die at the shelter. Volunteers often pasted over him to walk the fluffy, "cute" dogs, or to hang with the puppies. Kuma looked "mean"..... when in fact he was exactly the opposite. The day I photographed Kuma at the shelter was the day I fell in love with him. Kuma and I never took too many photos, instead the two of us laid in the grass and cuddled. Kuma practically laid on top of me and cuddled so close to me I could hear his heart beat. The shelter had set such a good foundation of love for this pup, but I realized at that moment that this dog needed so much more love then even the shelter could give. I knew he needed a home....my home.
Take a look at Kuma's eyes the day they found him. He was so close to giving up. The sadness in those eyes still pains me today even though I know Kuma is safe, with a fully belly, and a new toy... sitting at my feet. I'm so thankful the shelter took care of him before I ever knew I would love him. I'm so grateful for the hard work and dedication of all those that work at ARF. Thank you ARF! You cared enough to help my Kuma... and now, I can love him forever.
I'm crying. Happy crying, but still. You have a beautiful family of 4.
ReplyDeleteThank you for loving Kuma and giving him the chance he deserves
ReplyDeleteKuma is beautiful & so are you for bringing him into your family and showing him what love feels like =)
ReplyDeleteLisa, NY
Beautiful story. Thank you for sharing and for loving Kuma. (I do not know how to "select profile" other than anonymous). Anne Lamb
ReplyDeleteWhat a wonderful story. My heart is full that you have taken Kumba and given him love and a wonderful home. God loves those who love his helpless creatures.
ReplyDeleteAll it takes is for a person to take the time to really look at these animals, to see their worth. But so few people take that time. I've found two of our furry family members at shelters- what joy they have brought to our lives! And I fell in love with them in the beginning because of their pictures. Thank you for what you do to share these beautiful souls with the public!!!
ReplyDeleteI went to vote for ARF today. Then sent out invitations for friends on fb to vote as well. I used Kuma's story to show how wonderful ARF is. And you for bringing him home! Seriously, I am ready to cry. I went through all the photos on ARF...my heart breaks that people would gas chamber some of these adorable creatures (read about Theo). Thanks, Sarah, for introducing us to ARF.
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