Bullies: Breaking the Stigma
In light of the recent Florida balloting I’d like to note a small, yet meaningful, victory that many might overlook during the chaos that ensues after political elections. Florida Amendment 13, a ban on wagering on dog races (including Greyhounds), was passed amongst the many others and although this may initially seem great- it’s only a happy ending if these now ‘retired’ race dogs (estimated up to 80,000) can find a loving family to go home with.
Sophie Gamand, a photographer who has been advocating for the wellbeing of animals before any amendment was created, has been utilizing her talents behind the lens to create captivating, and oftentimes hysterical, portraits of dogs in shelters nationwide to aid them in finding their forever home.
One of her biggest projects to date is “Flower Power, Pit Bulls of the Revolution”, and addresses the negative (and falsely accused) stigma against not only Pit Bulls, but ‘Bully Breeds’ in general. Through traveling America’s animal shelters and photographing adoptable Pit Bulls with dainty flower crowns, Gamand states, “the portraits celebrate these dogs’ inherent personality, vulnerability, and individuality and have not only led to hundreds of dogs finding loving, forever homes, but have spurred efforts to destigmatize an animal whose reputation for violence says more about us than the characters of the dogs themselves”.
In addition to this, she photographs disabled and elderly dogs and even posts follow-ups on the dogs she’s gotten adopted through her talent and advocacy. Every animal deserves a second chance at love, and people like Sophie Gamand who donate their time and passion make the difference in both the dog, regardless of their age or circumstance, and their new family’s life.
Strike Out,
Writer: Gillian McKendree
Editor: Hali Azpeitia
Tallahassee