Rita Earl Blackwell is a caring individual whose innovative concept is significantly transforming the lives of senior shelter dogs.
A gifted photographer, Rita has embraced the potential of her camera to produce enchanting photographs and videos of elderly dogs residing in shelters, effectively becoming their advocate and rescuer.
Thanks to her remarkable efforts, numerous deserving dogs have discovered hope and gained opportunities for a renewed existence.
This is the narrative of a life-saving photographer.
How It All Began
It’s often said that a photograph conveys a multitude of words… yet, in this instance, a photograph rescues lives.
Rita, a celebrated photographer, employs her ability to salvage the lives of innumerable rescue animals, offering her services entirely pro-bono.
“Each week, I visit various shelters, documenting dogs through videos and photographs, hoping they can be seen and rescued,” Rita shared with GeoBeats Animals.
Originally from Staten Island, New York, she has resided in California for more than 25 years.
Her enthusiasm for photography dates back as far as she can recall, but it was only when she adopted her first rescue dog that she developed a profound affinity for rescue animals and committed herself to advocating for them.
While departing the animal shelter with her new pet, she couldn’t shake the thoughts of all the other dogs left behind.
Though she wasn’t able to contribute financially, she had her camera, prompting her to think, “What if I could return and assist these dogs by capturing them in beautiful photographs, allowing people to see them from a new perspective?”
Thus, the journey commenced nearly a decade ago.
Currently, Rita collaborates tirelessly with over ten rescue shelters and organizations in Los Angeles, California, in addition to visiting local city and county shelters.
Preserving Life Through Photography
“At first, I was anxious about visiting the shelter. I feared my heart would be shattered repeatedly, but then I realized that it’s their hearts that break daily. These animals are longing for someone to take them for a walk, to show them a bit of love, or to be comforted for missing their families or being lonely in the shelter,” Rita explained.
With her photography, Rita aims to portray as many adoptable pets as achievable, ensuring they receive an opportunity to discover their forever home.
The chief challenge faced by her and the shelters is overcrowding. The influx of animals necessitates an equal number to be rehomed.
Otherwise, difficult decisions must be made.
Regrettably, numerous dogs are still euthanized due to space issues, and Rita endeavors to capture the true essence of each animal in hopes of enhancing their chances of adoption.
She spends time with the dogs in their kennels, interacts with them, showers them with affection, and aims to help them unwind, capturing their best sides in her images.
A few years post-adoption of her first rescue dog, she felt compelled to take in a pair of large, senior female dogs.
When no one came forward to adopt them after the photoshoot, she returned to the shelter to bring them home.
Thanks to her exceptional work, countless shelter dogs have successfully found their forever homes.
Giving Back
Camp Cocker Rescue mentioned, “She has independently aided in the rescue of numerous dogs simply by showcasing their stories, personalities, characteristics, and stunning faces all within a single image. She focuses on the dogs often overlooked by the public, including seniors and those facing medical challenges.”
It’s heart-wrenching to witness the plight of shelter dogs, but their hearts are already in repair. A small gesture of kindness can help heal their spirits, and Rita embodies that truth.
“She artfully captures the personality of each dog in every shot. Recently, one of our dogs found a home after someone spotted a photograph she took. Her images reflect the dogs’ essence and narrate their story,” Little Diva Rescue remarked.
To explore more of her impressive work, visit her website: Rita Earl Photography, and her Instagram page.