Each month, I host a Foster Photo Day as a free resource to help local fosters and rescues have access to professional imagery to help their pups be seen (and hopefully) adopted.

The goal is to give harder to adopt pups, such as the ones listed below, an edge in standing out among the millions of animals available for adoption.

These dogs are usually, but not always:

Older (usually 3 years of age or older)
Might have medical needs
Potentially have some kind of behavioral issues, like reactivity or needing to be the only pet
Are a restricted breed, like bully breeds
Are black in color (Black dogs are much less likely to get adopted in the shelter in a very common phenomenon called Black Dog Syndrome)
Or have just been overlooked for one reason or another
Have been in foster for a significant period of time; typically months, if not, years

Since the inception of this program back in October of 2021, we’ve photographed well over 300+ pups in foster across the Triangle through multiple rescues.

If you’d like to learn more about Foster Photo Day or register your own foster, you can do so here. This initiative is open to any and all rescues across the Triangle that have dogs in foster that need professional imagery at no cost.

If you want to learn more about our Mission to help reduce animal overpopulation and homelessness in our state, read more about that here.

You can also support our Rescue Photography with a monetary contribution or pick up something for the pups off of our Rescue Photography Wishlist!

Without further ado, here are the adorable pups I had the pleasure to meet and photograph as part of our April Foster Photo Day! Feel free to share their profile or this post with anyone you know that might be looking to adopt.

Want to give more visibility to your business and help dogs in need? Consider becoming a Rescue Lens Collective Business Sponsor. Learn more about our new rescue sponsorship program here.y-sponsorship

COURAGE - WAKEGOV PETS

Courage is a sweet and gentle little girl with a heart full of potential. While she’s still a bit shy around people and not overly affectionate at first, she has a quiet way of showing love—especially when you’re sleeping, as that’s when she’ll snuggle in close.

She absolutely adores her foster brothers and would thrive in a home with other dogs—she’s truly a dog’s dog! Courage also enjoys the presence of people and finds comfort in having them nearby. When left alone, she can get a little curious and chew on things, so she’s crate trained and does very well with it. She’s also fully potty trained and coexists peacefully with the resident cat—she’s totally unbothered by feline friends.

Courage is very food motivated, which makes training a breeze and helps build trust and confidence. She has the most beautiful, expressive eyes and ears as big as her heart—you can’t help but fall in love with her sweet, soulful look.

If you're looking for a loyal companion for your current pup, or if you appreciate a more independent dog who still enjoys your company in her own quiet way, Courage might just be the perfect match.

MEET COURAGE

THEO - WAKEGOV PETS

Theo is a loving pup who absolutely adores being around people! He thrives on companionship and is happiest when he’s close by, sharing affection. Eager to please and highly food motivated, Theo is a quick learner who responds well to positive reinforcement.

He’s still working on his housetraining, so his future family will need to be patient and consistent as he continues to improve. In return, Theo will offer unwavering loyalty and a protective heart. He’s generally a friendly guy, though he can be a little hesitant around new people—greeting them with a cautious wag and a bark to let them know he’s keeping an eye out.

Theo does occasionally get carsick, so travel might take a bit of extra planning. But his favorite things more than make up for it—he’s a big fan of squeaky toys, cozy snuggles, and peaceful walks in the woods.

If you're looking for a loyal companion with a big heart and even bigger potential, Theo might just be the one for you!

MEET THEO

MAX - NESHAMA RESCUE

Sasha is a sweet, loving 5-year-old 45lb dog, who is looking for a forever home where she can feel safe and loved. She started her life living outside, but now she’s come a long way and is thriving indoors. Sasha is fully house-trained and working hard to get comfortable in her crate.

This beautiful girl absolutely loves the company of other dogs and will make the perfect companion for your furry friend. She bonds deeply with her humans and is known for her affectionate nature. Whether it's cuddles on the couch or a walk in the park, Sasha will be by your side, showering you with love.

She lived outside for most of her life. She is looking to find her person.

MEET MAX

DESMOND - WAKEGOV PETS

During playgroups, Desmond was a riot! From the first minute in the yard, he let it be known that he was there to ROCK OUT! He ran, chased, wrestled, and seemed to love interacting with the other dogs. He played with females and males, and he seemed to believe that he was King for the Day! He had an absolute blast.

Desmond is a 4-year-old male dog with a calm, friendly personality and a love for the outdoors. Though he gets excited to head outside, he settles quickly and is easy to leash. He has no problem walking past other dogs and enjoys sniffing and exploring his surroundings. Out on walks, Desmond is happy and social, often wanting to greet other dogs he encounters. Not particularly food-motivated, he does accept treats once he's back in his kennel. Desmond is currently on Omega fish oil to support his skin health (not contagious) as he needs a bit of extra nourishment. He's a fantastic walker, making him an ideal choice for anyone who enjoys daily walks and would like a loyal companion by their side.

Desmond also enjoys playing with toys! Whether he is rolling round with this favorite toy (check out the video section) or just army crawling around with it (https://youtube.com/shorts/sQnVFXLSs1k?feature=share), he can definitely keep himself entertained!

Although he is heartworm positive, it is treatable and not contagious. Friends of Wake County Animal Center has provided a $600 sponsorship to help cover the cost of treatment.

Desmond is up to date on vaccinations, flea/tick, and heartworm prevention, is microchipped, and will be neutered prior to going home. If you have dogs or cats, we recommend slow introductions over time. If you have children in your home, we recommend supervision between animals and children at all times.

MEET DESMOND

PUMPKIN PATRICK - WAKEGOV PETS

Pumpkin Patrick is a 2-year-old, 71-pound male dog with a big personality and even bigger heart! This handsome stray has medium energy and gets excited when it's time to leash up, occasionally reacting to other dogs as he heads outside. Pumpkin Patrick already knows commands like "sit" and "down" and takes treats with a gentle mouth, showing he's a quick learner.

During his second playgroup session, Pumpkin Patrick did not get along well with the male dog but did get along with the female. His best home would be one where he is the only dog in the home or a playful female.

This big, good-looking boy would be a great match for an active family or a jogging partner who can help him channel his energy in positive ways. During his outing to the park with our volunteer, it was noted that even though he wanted to say HI to every dog he met, he was easily redirected with a treat. Being treat motivated will make him easy to train. They also mentioned that watching him get into a car for the first time was a bit like watching a toddler learning to walk - awkward in the most adorable way. But now he's got the hang of it and he can't wait to go on his next adventure! Check him out, cruising with our volunteer: https://youtube.com/shorts/7Avvcpf39uk?feature=share. If you're looking for a fun, loving companion ready for adventure, come meet Pumpkin Patrick!

Although he is heartworm positive, it is treatable and not contagious. Friends of Wake County Animal Center has provided a $600 sponsorship to help cover the cost of treatment.

Pumpkin Patrick is up to date on vaccinations, flea/tick, and heartworm prevention, is microchipped, and will be neutered prior to going home. If you have dogs or cats, we recommend slow introductions over time. If you have children in your home, we recommend supervision between animals and children at all times.

MEET PATRICK