Forwarded message - please reply to bumpy723@aol.com

How to get a black dog/cat adopted faster

I came across this site today and wanted to share. May be of help when
trying to get the black dogs (and cats, too) adopted out, since they are
least likely to be saved. ;-(

Link 1:
http://www.startseeingblackdogs.com/

Link 2:
http://www.blackpearldogs.com/

Photo Tips
Photographing Black Dogs 101

Having trouble getting glamour shots of your black dogs? Prospective
adopters love photos. Are your black dogs looking their best? Follow
these easy tips to improve your photos, get your black dogs noticed
and help increase adoptions. If your dogs look so good that they get
agents and develop super model attitudes, donÕt blame us!

*All tips assume that you are using a basic point and shoot camera with
automatic settings.

Outdoor Tips
*Take your pictures in the morning or early evening for best light; from
sunrise to about 3 hours after sunrise and from 3 hours before sunset to
sunset.

*Shoot on a cloudy day. The light is soft and your subject will be evenly lit.

*Face the sun, then turn 90 degrees to your right or left. This is where you
should place your subject.

*Use direct lighting if no other lighting choice is available. Stand with
your back to the sun, then move slightly left or right so the sun is shining
just over your shoulder. Place the subject directly in front of you.

*Use a large white object such as foam core, paper, or a white wall to add
extra light. Just place the white object as close to the dog as you can without
getting it in the shot.

Indoor Tips

*Use natural light if possible. Photograph your subject near large windows
with plenty of sunlight.

*For a little extra light, place your subject next to something white such
as a white wall or a large white piece of paper.

*Shine a utility light flashlight at the white wall your subject is standing
next to to bounce light off the subject.

Avoid having other people, animals, or unsightly objects in the background
that may take attention away from your subject.

General Tips

*Do not use the flash on your camera if you can help it. It causes the human
equivalent of "red eye" and is very unflattering to your subject.

*Do not photograph the subject from above. Get down to the dogs level for
a more natural look. This may mean lying on the floor or setting a small dog
on a table.

*Do not photograph dogs outside in mid afternoon when the sun is directly
overhead. This causes unflattering, harsh shadows.

*Make sure your own shadow and those of other people or dogs are not in
the photograph.

*Get a few other people to help; someone to hold the leash and another to
get the dog's attention.

*Reward good behavior with treats! Tiny, soft "training treats" are best for
an immediate reward without interrupting your photography session.

Make them visible - Bedazzle Your Black Dogs

We often hear that because of their color, black dogs are less visible in
kennels or crates. So how can you ÒbedazzleÓ your black dogs to make
sure they get noticed by potential adopters?

* Have a volunteer sew sequins or applique's on bandanas for the dogs
to wear.

* Make simple vests for your black pooches to wear. Bring on the "bling"
by adding glitter glue, sequins, or stenciling.

* Stencil "Adopt Me!" on the back of dog vests, bandanas or t-shirts along
with your rescue group's name. Foster parents can dress up their foster
dogs when they visit public places. You never know when you might run
into a potential adopter on your afternoon walk!

* Ask a local business to sponsor your foster dogs by paying to have
"Adopt Me" vests made. In exchange for their sponsorship. Offer to include
the business logo on the vests; list the business as a supporter on your
website; put their business cards at your adoption day table and give their
brochure to new dog parents. Adopters and volunteers
love to support businesses that support your rescue organization.

* Make sure that the easily overlooked black dogs have a visible place
at all adoption days where potential adopters can easily see them.
"Bedazzle" their crates and the dog's "information sheet" with glitter,
colorful paper and fun photos. Put the dogÕs information sheets
inside clear plastic sleeves and tie them with bright ribbons to the kennel.

* Ask your volunteers to share their ideas for showing off your wonderful
black dogs. Have fun with it!

Posted on SHARE Yahoo group - Aug. 12, 2009