How A Minnesota Photographer Helps Displaced Pets

As a volunteer for Secondhand Hounds, Thomas Strand usually helped the Minneapolis rescue organization with animal transit and home inspections-until he offered to pet-sit a fostered bloodhound for five days. "Buford was this big character, so I started doing photos of him. That's how he found his forever home," Thomas says. Now, if a dog or cat isn't attracting adoption applications, Thomas donates a photo shoot. He compares it to helping pets craft a better Tinder profile: "I take them for the afternoon or a few days. We're hanging together, and their personality starts to come through. People can see that in the photos." And as any veteran of online dating knows, a standout profile pic is the first step to finding the perfect match.

Rescue Me

For many at-risk pets, Secondhand Hounds is the last hope. Here's a glimpse of the nonprofit's work.

Fighter Fund Healing abused or injured animals before adoption costs more than $1 million annually in vet bills. Donations make it possible.

Forever loved If an animal is too old or ill for adoption, Secondhand Hounds arranges a hospice foster in a comfy, loving home.

SHH International  This satellite program has helped street dogs from Mexico and hurricane victims from Puerto Rico find homes in Minnesota.