Tuesday, October 05, 2010

our cover stars represent

And our cover for the 2011 My Dog is Family Calendar goes too ...



... Tozi, the lovely senior brindle photographed by Anna Patterson of Gainesville Florida!

It was nearly impossible to pick just one photo. Our heads were spinning with all the winning shots that came in, including, a handful of sweet naked baby shots (gah!), flower sniffing dogs, arty shots, cuddle shots, action shots and a phethora of sofa surfing shots.

We kept coming back to Tozi's image though - in part because the photo has such beautifully rich color and crisp focus ... But it was the warmth and comfort of the boy & dog's relationship that bowled us over. They embody the theme of our contest: My Dog is Family. These two are all that.

Tozi's story sealed the deal...
Anna wrote, "Tozi is the perfect family dog. She was left at our county shelter nursing four puppies and missing a few teeth. When she and our then three year old son Rafael met, it was love at first sight. Now she is a Canine Good Citizen and a library reading dog. Mostly she is Rafael's best friend."

And all this, in Florida .. where dog owners bust butt each and every year to push back BSL threats and keep their dogs safe.

We'll announce the sale of the calendar in about 2-3 weeks (depending on how quick the design fairies pull the twelve images together into a sweet design). So hold tight. And thank you Anna Peterson, Rafael and Tozi for representing everything that makes us so proud to call these dogs family.

12 comments:

Dianne said...

This is one of my favorites, too. Thanks for picking it.

Connie said...

Wonderful picture and story!

Jenn said...

I love it.

Anonymous said...

Nothin like a senior and a child to warm your heart first thing in the morning! Wonderful picture!

Lynn in N. Cal

Anonymous said...

Love it, over the last 10 years all 4 of my pit babies have come from the shelter in Gainesville, FL. Tozi represents them well!

Jen said...

What a gorgeous shot, and a great story. Can't wait to buy the calendar!

Anonymous said...

Wonderful picture, can't wait to buy and see the whole calendar....

Lisa in NorCal...

Lin S. said...

Saw the cover photo and had to try to keep from crying at my desk at work, so I'd say you've made a good choice. There were so many wonderful photos, but I agree that this shows the beautiful bond between Rafael and Tozi. An iconic image of "family." Photo color and composition are also really good.

Linda said...

I'm so glad you picked that photo! I just love it.

Kudos to everyone who submitted photos to the contest. They are ALL winners!

jonzak said...

Paws up to your choice of cover models! Great story. Luvs you all!

dati g said...

Dogs and a child can be great friends, I like the picture here and i will soon come back.

Bumpers Mommy said...

We are so excited to see the finished product!!! Thanks Donna, Bad Rap, and EVERYONE who voted and raised so much money for such a great cause! I am certain that the sale of these calendars will raise even more money for the amazing dogs in need!!!
We found out that our "last minute angels" voting for Bumper were the staff at the local animal shelter where we volunteer. They wanted their "hero" to be in the calendar - representing bravery and love!