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Shelter animal photographs worth 1,000 words and then some

ST. CLAIRSVILLE — Every shelter dog and cat has a story, and St. Clairsville residents Aaron and Jodi Apitzsch aim to tell those stories to help get the future pets adopted into new homes.

For the past five years, the couple has been using their time and talents to take beautiful, candid photographs of dogs and cats at the Belmont County Animal Shelter in the hopes of finding the animals loving forever homes.

Most of the photos taken by Aaron, which are posted on the shelter’s Facebook page, are accompanied by a story written by the couple about that particular animal. They also include video slideshows of the canines and felines.

After living in Dayton, Ohio, the couple moved back to St. Clairsville about 10 years ago, and Jodi started volunteering at the shelter, helping to clean kennels, walk dogs and more.

“She inspired me to become involved approximately five years ago. We do whatever we can to help, from cleaning kennels, socializing the dogs, or helping find the right fit for adoptions. Shelter work is not easy, and the staff has many responsibilities. There are many gears in motion in this environment, and everyone at the shelter has a role,” Aaron said. “The director, Angela Hatfield, saw the need to increase the social media presence of the shelter for the sake of increased exposure for animals that may never have had the chance before.”

Aaron said they typically visit the animals on a Saturday and take the photographs in a nearby wooded area or at the shelter itself. Though he is not a photographer by trade, Aaron, who works as a union sheet metal worker, said he has been taking photos as a hobby for 30 years. And while the finished products look pristine, Aaron said depending on the dog or cat it can take dozens of tries to get that perfect shot.

Jodi gathers information about the animals, including their histories and likes and dislikes for their stories. They also get to know the animals’ personalities and try to convey that as well.

Following is a sample story by the couple about a dog named Peaches:

“Peaches is the perfect lady. A sweetheart in every way, she walks proudly beside you and is excellent on a lead. Always wanting to please, if you crouch or stop walking she will huddle close and show you all the affection you can handle. If you want her paw, she’ll give you two. Not a jumper either, Peaches wants to please you and impress in every way. She is a 5-year-old pit bull mix and weighs about 45 pounds. Very reminiscent of another famous girl that was recently homed from the shelter. This poor girl has endured the passing of her owner, the separation of her packmates, and a lifestyle change in such a short amount of time and yet remains steadfast and poised. She is good with most dogs and seems interested in cats, but we’re not sure of her history with them. Regardless, it’s always best if they meet first. Peaches has many outstanding qualities of a lap dog that would love and appreciate some company and a new home. If you, or someone you know is looking for an affectionate, adorable girl, please let them know. Peaches could be the one.”

Aaron said since putting the dogs and cats on social media, shelter adoptions have increased.

“We have seen our share of dogs and cats come and go. It amazes us how many different situations can come about for them to find themselves at the shelter. Many times dogs are brought in as strays and never claimed,” Aaron said.

“They have a story and we need to piece it together. Many times a photo will capture a reaction, a hint of sorrow, or glimmer of hope in a dog’s eyes. We spend time with them all. We learn about their behavior, their tendencies, and what we need to work on to give them a better chance to adapt to a new home.

“Every dog and cat has something to say, and we try our best to understand what that something is. Dogs and cats are like snowflakes in a way. There are no two alike. When dogs come in together, through surrender, owner death or as strays, the shelter tries their best to keep them together and many times it works out beautifully.”

Aaron said the photographs and stories have attracted potential adoptees from as far away as Vietnam and the United Kingdom.

The couple’s own dogs came from the shelter as well: a black labrador named Midnight and a beagle mix named Finnick.

“One of our dogs (Midnight) was there on a court case, on a court hold. I grew to love him. … They’re wonderful,” he said of his dogs.

“Adopt before you shop,” Aaron added, referring to shelter dogs versus dogs sold by breeder. “If you check the local shelter, 25 percent of the dogs that come in are purebreds. … Chances are the perfect dog is awaiting for you.”

In addition to getting to help the animals, Aaron said the volunteer work simply is rewarding.

“Many people say they just can’t do it. We blame Sarah McLachlan and those ASPCA commercials,” Aaron quipped. “No, in reality, we say we don’t know how you couldn’t get involved. The need for education about animals, training, adoption, spay/neuter programs or volunteering is at an all-time high right now.

“Pet over-population is real and it takes an army to make a dent. Approximately 30 percent of animals in U.S. shelters are purebreds and over 3 million dogs and cats are euthanized in American shelters every year. Statistics also show that only 1 in 10 dogs born ever find a permanent home. The numbers are staggering. I also can’t stress enough how my wife and I are just one spoke on a large wheel. There are many other volunteers who do a tremendous amount of work. We have felt welcome at the Belmont County Animal Shelter, and honored to be accepted as part of the team.”

Following are some more shelter animal stories:

∫ Peanut the dog:

“Let’s say you needed to remove a stubborn tree stump, or your dump truck was stuck in the mud. If there was one dog at the shelter that could help you, we’d send Peanut. Many of his attributes are associated with power. His build is unmatched and the look in his eyes may make you change your direction of travel. But there is more to Peanut than what a casual visitor would be able to pick up on in a single visit. When you get to know him, there are certain things that may surprise you. He’ll stare you in all the way until you reach him, then, when you think he’s about to eat you, he’ll reach up, put his paws on you and most of the time, give a big stretch and yawn. He loves to soak up your affection and show you his playful side. He loves treats and will hide them quickly, only to return to you for more ear rubs. Peanut is a 6-year-old pit bull/black mouth cur mix, about 65-70 pounds, that came in with two other dogs that have since been adopted. He’s not fond of all dogs however, and should be in a house without cats. With a dog of this stature comes added responsibility. Peanut needs a strong, confident and experienced owner to reach his maximum potential. When handled correctly, he understands quickly who the boss is. And he needs to know, it isn’t him. He doesn’t pull on a leash like you might expect, but keeps a steady pace once you get started. There is a good dog here that needs to be able to live his life being able to run, play hard and to sleep soundly on a warm floor (bed). Stop in and let us know that you’d like to meet Peanut. You may find in him just what you were looking for and he may approve of you as well.”

∫ Neci the dog:

“This mellow foxhound mix is Neci. She’s a medium-sized stray female between 3-5years old. Not one to carry on or be involved in any drama, she’d rather take it easy and let the day flow by. She loves people, gets along fine with other dogs and you could probably put a cat on her back if you wanted to. Please don’t put a cat on her back. Neci did jump right into the driver’s seat of a volunteers car last week. She seemed to have plans elsewhere that day, but got back out reluctantly when asked to. It was worth a try. Leash manners are fine but she is a hound so expect to be patient while she sniffs her way slowly down the trail. What’s the big hurry anyhow? Neci girl could use a few walks a day to trim five pounds but she’s adorable all the same. Waiting, like many others to be welcomed into a family and become a permanent fixture in a household of her own. She would be a solid bet to win you over once she was there.”

∫ Cierra the dog:

” CIERRA WON’T GIVE UP. Somewhat of a celebrity of sorts at the shelter. CeCe, as she’s known by many, is a fun dog. She can often be seen tossing toys up into the air, romping around her kennel or trying to lure you to play. If she has a playmate, she’ll likely wear them out (just ask Jack Frost). Where does she get her spirit? It’s hard to tell. But it is NEVER broken. This fabulous girl, as you may know, came to us when her owner that she adored passed away and her elderly parents could not keep up with her needs. Cierra is full of life and full of love. We don’t know why this precious girl has been overlooked for so long. Maybe she doesn’t stand out like some of the other dogs or maybe her features are unremarkable, but we think Cierra’s story isn’t over, and that this girl is meant to change more lives with her unwavering enthusiasm. Nothing would impact HER life more than to be able to have a new beginning, to have some space, and to be able to be the wonderful dog she is, in a home of her own, once again. Until that day, she will never give up.”

∫ Diego the dog:

“We were asked to re-post this lovable guy Moo Cow (AKA: Diego) from some of the people he met last weekend at an off-site adoption. They just fell in love with him and have provided a discount on dog obedience training to his new adopter. We wanted to make sure everyone knows he is still up for adoption and looking for his forever home. He has had a rough start in life as he was surrendered to the shelter by an owner who kept him alone in a chicken coop unwilling to take the time to understand him or have the patience to develop a relationship. He was on the shy side but was then adopted and has become a very loving boy but in his new environment was protective of his new owner so he was returned. He’s a is medium-sized pup weighing about 40-50 lbs. and approximately 3 years old. He is neutered, housetrained and up to date on shots. He loves to be petted and leans into you to get as close as possible. He deserves a great home. Please consider giving this wonderful animal an indoor home he can call his own. He could very well become a lasting,loving part of your life.”

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