Project Research: How to get a dog adopted

For our project I decided to look at the most reliable shelter that I know of. I think that Best Friends animal shelter does a great job caring for and working to provide homes for the pets that need homes. To learn more about what they do to help dogs get adopted I looked at their website listings for animals. 

Here is a random listing that I saw which seemed to follow their formula to adoption: Hazel's Listing

The first thing that stands out is that Hazel appears to be smiling. All of the dogs on Best Friends listings have a similar appearance, The dog is outside smiling at the the viewer

Hazel's Headshot

Source: Hazel's Listing

This photo type helps people to visualize the dog as a part of their family in their backyard. This is why the photos are so important. It helps for those who are looking to adopt and may have a specific dog in mind. 

Second the the description of the animal is very important. For example, I have learned that Hazel has more specific needs than other dogs. Her life has been rough; love and care is something that she really needs. It would not be good to adopt her if you were on your first dog or had other animals in your house. She also requires a more protected home because she is likely to wander. This information is helpful for a potential owner to look at. She is a dog that needs a lot of care that is more likely to be from a more experienced dog owner. 

Along with the more pressing things I have learned that Hazel loves squeaky toys. She also enjoys some dogs. All of this information and the requirement of a stay at the Best Friends Sanctuary helps me to better understand Hazel as a dog. 

These two important aspects of the dog's representation will help me to think about how I can best represent my dog. I should communicate temperament and have a way to visualize that.