Lesson 5 Representation in Practice: Do you want this dog?

 The thought of adopting a dog has become very popular too many people in the past decade. The days of custom ordered purebreds are not behind us but not in the lamp light either. There are many popular sayings you will see  all manners of merchandise and over social media like "adopt not shop" and "who rescued who?" (I am not going to comment on these saying because I may have a hot take or two.) Because of this change in trend the depiction of animals is important. This is especially prevent for "problematic dogs."  

The most "problematic" breed that is in shelters are pit bulls. This is mainly because of the perception that they are dangerous and aggressive dogs. There are many breeds that fall under the pitbull umbrella. 

The many good dogs that are pitbulls

Source: Here

There are somethings that shelters can do to help people see these dogs as the newest member of their family. The depiction of the dog is key. Two very similar dogs can be depicted rather differently based on the lighting, environment, and who is in the picture. For example these two pictures have a similar looking Pitbull. 

Source: Here

Source: Here

The ways these pictures make you feel and perceive the dogs differently. This is why shelters need to be wise about how they depict "problematic" dogs. 

There are many ways to help these dogs find their forever homes. Firstly if possible labeling these dogs as "mixes" instead of pitbulls can help. It is common for many dogs in shelters to be a mix of breeds so this way of labeling the dogs helps people to think there is something other than the pitbull that they see on the outside. 

The picture on the dog's profile will also effect their adaptability. It is important to create the glamor shot but additionally for our "problematic" puppies picturing them with a child or older person helps. The main thing to avoid with pitfalls expecially is to avoid any large muscular and tattooed men. He may be a sweat heart who volunteers at the shelter weekly but his presence will only hinder these dogs from getting adopted. 

Lastly if possible adding a video of the dog interacting with other people will help them to be adopted. Walking or playing are helpful to show that the dog is well trained or kind and playful.

Hopefully once all of these changes have been applied to the dogs profile they will find a happy home.