“In a gentle way, you can shake the world.”
The Roxy Project is a multi-part photo series documenting dogs who’ve been adopted from shelters and rescue organizations. It's about the luck and kismet that binds people to their chosen furry companions and the enduring reciprocity of love.
Jones, adopted from The Bully Project.
The Beginning
Late last year, I came across a video of a sweet faced pitty named Roxy on my Instagram feed. According to the post, Roxy was being held at a local kill shelter and was scheduled to be euthanized later that day. To be honest, I wished I hadn’t seen it – my heart could’t take the thought of time running out on a dog who could potentially add so much to the right person’s life. But unfortunately it happens every day.
Lucy, adopted from The Shiba Inu Rescue Network.
I quickly tried to figure out what I could do to save her. Since I was unfamiliar with New York's foster/adoption process, what followed was a frustrating maze of unsuccessful attempts to talk to someone. I felt absolutely powerless. Thankfully, in the end, Roxy was “pulled” (taken off of the euthanasia list ) and placed into a forever home. The whole experience left me emotionally exhausted, and I started to think of ways that I could help. It also inspired me to take a more intimate look at foster/rescue pets and the impact that these four legged companions have on their owners. Shortly thereafter, the Roxy Project was born.
Photo: Emily Havens
My hope is that more people will consider fostering and adopting through shelters and rescue organizations. Or if taking on a pet isn’t possible, donating time or a few dollars is also a great way to help shelters save at-risk animals. Please have a look at the organizations listed in the "Friends" section. It's always a good day to help save a life.
Michelle Layne Lawson
Stevie (my dog), adopted from Waggytail Rescue.