why I panicked in nyc.

I am so eager to dive right into this post, so I’m just going to go for it (hey, hi, hello, Daylight Savings sucks, how are you?). Okay, cool. So… my friend was turning 30 and wanted to celebrate in NYC. I decided to fly out a day early so that I could do some stuff for Rescue in Style. Luck was on my side because my flight was unaffected by the Nor’easter that had canceled all flights the previous day. With zero delays and an early hotel check-in, I knew it was too good to be true.

I was set to grab coffee with Sarah Bradsky, the founder of Foster Dogs, at noon before heading to the rescue for the photoshoot. While I was on my way to meet Sarah my stomach dropped when I got a message from the (pregnant) photographer telling me she was having back pains and wouldn’t be able to make it. Now, naturally, I freaked the hell out. I’m disappointed that my first reaction wasn’t out of compassion for her and I still feel guilty for that. Unfortunately, knowing no other photographers in the area and having only 45 minutes to figure out a new game plan, I was panicking.

After 2 minutes of feeling sorry for myself, I knew there was only one thing to do, figure it out. I texted Sarah letting her know and we both tried to find alternative photographers. Coming up short, Sarah said she’d simply come with me to take photos of the dogs on my iPhone but we’d have to work quickly. When Sarah had to leave, Amanda, the social media director for Camp Canine, stepped in and was able to finish taking photos.

Ideal? Not at all, but would it work? Of course. Because at the end of the day, it’s not about perfect photography or making sure to get the lighting just right, it’s about the animals. And boy were these animals cute. They were all from Puerto Rico and are here through Lighthouse Animal Rescue. There are more than 250,000 stray animals in  Puerto Rico and each year, Lighthouse helps save more than 800 dogs. The weekend I was there, Lighthouse was scheduled to receive 43 dogs and puppies from the US Territory.  When I asked Tania, the Director of the rescue, where they’d house them all, she responded that they’d keep some at Camp Canine daycare but will be relying heavily on their fosters.

As you may be aware, fosters are a huge asset to any rescue organization. It allows the rescue to continue to save more animals without having to have a physical shelter. However, if you’re interested in fostering, it can be hard to know where to start. That’s where Sarah came up with the brilliant idea to begin a network of foster homes in NYC. By working with dozens of organizations, Foster Dogs matches people with their perfect foster pup. They provide resources, guides, and programs to help make the fostering process smooth for everyone. While currently servicing New York, they are hoping to expand soon and I can only hope they bring their knowledge and program to Chicago.

All in all, I had an amazing time in NYC. Sure, things didn’t go as I had expected, but in the end, it all turned out great. It was a lesson I learned and won’t soon forget. While it’s wonderful to have professional photographers to help me out, this project started with an iPhone and the wanting to help homeless pets. I don’t see why that has to be a setback today.

A huge thank you to Foster Dogs, Animal Lighthouse Rescue, Camp Canine and all the wonderful staff and volunteers who helped make this happen. Be sure to check them out and give them a follow!

Have you ever been in a situation where you felt like everything was ruined? What did you do? Let me know in the comments below!

THE RESCUES:

I had to make the most of my time so I met with three cuties!

Wolfie – If you’re into Game of Thrones, this is your dog. His eyes say white walker but his body is all dire wolf. He’s a very gentle boy who is slow to warm up but has the sweetest heart. You can tell he just wants to be with his person and find his forever home. For more information about Wolfie, click here.

Governor – I was so in love with this little guy… look at him! His head tilt, his ears, he’s crazy eye. He’s the perfect companion and is such a little lover. He’s the classic little dog who thinks he’s a big dog so he needs boundaries and work with his resource guarding. But this spunky little man is the perfect Shih-Tzu looking for love. For more information about Governor, click here.

Bibi – Last but not least we have this happy pup. Can you handle his ears? He is so well-behaved on a leash and enjoys playing with other dogs. We walked with him to Central Park and he was nothing but polite and well-mannered. At only 45 pounds, he’s the perfect size pup for any home! This special boy is perfect, for more information about Bibi, click here.

THE STYLE:

I am SO excited to be shopping again! Spring clothes are out and it’s way more fun! I just picked up this top and I can’t stop wearing it. At less than $100, I couldn’t wait to show it off. I paired it with my Paige jeans and booties. Shop the look below!

xoxo,

Christine

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