As a result of the fabulous photos, an American bulldog mix named Tilley was adopted by a family in Minneapolis and a boxer mix named Courage adopted by a family in Ocala.  There has been an outpouring of gratitude concerning the change to portraits according to Urgent Dogs of Miami page on Facebook, run by Kerry Palmieri and other online volunteers.

These photos also motivated a new adopter to come to the shelter and adopt an adorable six month old kitten approximately two weeks ago.  The new owner had seen the pictures online and came to the shelter with no particular kitten in mind, but when she approached the one she adopted, she recognized it from one of the pictures she had seen.  The proud new owner is happy with her new addition to her family.

Adoption Requirements:  Interested adopters must be at least 18 years old.  Adoption fees apply, including a $50 refundable deposit if pet is not yet spayed or neutered.  Only Miami-Dade County residents may adopt pets under the spay/neuter agreement.

Call or Email for dates/times the photographer will be taking portraits at the Shelter

Interviews with adopters who were attracted by the portraits are also available. 

Animal Services is responsible for enforcing Chapter 5 of the Miami-Dade County Code, as well as Florida Statute 828, which deals primarily with animal cruelty issues.  Unlike private shelters that have limitations on the number of pets they accept, Animal Services accepts all dogs and cats. Each year, the shelter impounds 36,000 pets.  The goal at Animal Services is to reunite lost pets with their families or find life-long homes for as many animals as possible.