Calgary’s Pups with Soul Rescue, an organization that has been operating for years and has rescued over 830 dogs, noticed a troubling trend: black dogs were consistently being overlooked for adoption. Co-founder Christina Thomas expressed confusion over this phenomenon, stating that there is a perception that black dogs are not as cute or photogenic as their lighter-colored counterparts. To address this issue, the Black Dog Gala was created in Calgary, with the goal of celebrating the charm of black dogs and highlighting the joy of seeing them find their forever homes.
One volunteer with Pups with Soul Rescue, Theresa Oystreck, often fosters dogs, particularly those with medical needs, providing them with a safe space to recover before they are adopted by loving families. Oystreck shared her experience of witnessing these dogs transform from scared or injured to happy and healthy, emphasizing the overwhelming and amazing journey of seeing them flourish. The Black Dog Gala, set to take place on May 11, is already sold out, but the message behind the event remains potent: every dog, regardless of coat color, deserves a loving home.
With 60 dogs currently waiting to be adopted, Pups with Soul Rescue is always in need of volunteers and fosters to help support their cause. The organization is dedicated to finding loving homes for all dogs in their care, emphasizing the importance of looking beyond superficial factors like coat color when considering adoption. The Black Dog Gala serves as a platform to raise awareness about Black Dog Syndrome, a global phenomenon that affects shelters and rescues around the world, and to promote the adoption of black dogs who are often unfairly overlooked in the adoption process.
Through events like the Black Dog Gala and the ongoing efforts of Pups with Soul Rescue, the hope is to change perceptions and attitudes towards black dogs and encourage more people to consider adopting these often marginalized animals. The gala not only celebrates the unique charm of black dogs but also highlights the joy that comes from watching them find loving homes. By sharing stories of transformation and showcasing the beauty of black dogs, the organization hopes to inspire more individuals to open their hearts and homes to these deserving animals, ultimately reducing the stigma associated with Black Dog Syndrome.
As the Black Dog Gala approaches, the excitement and anticipation are palpable, with supporters and volunteers eager to celebrate the beauty and resilience of black dogs. The event serves as a reminder of the importance of giving every dog a chance at a happy and fulfilling life, regardless of their appearance. By coming together to support Pups with Soul Rescue and their mission to find forever homes for all dogs, attendees of the gala are making a meaningful difference in the lives of these deserving animals, helping to dispel the misconceptions and biases that have long plagued black dogs in the adoption process.
