Rico was surrendered to Valley Dogs rescue group by his owner because she could not afford to care for him anymore. He has special needs that require much time and money to support. He developed eye problems about a year ago and had to have one of them removed. While caring for his eyes, he was also tested for Valley Fever and the results came back positive.
Rico is a pure breed with papers that his prior owner purchased from a dog broker, not knowing what these types of “breed for profit” organizations are all about. A while after purchaing Rico, she wanted to learn more about the breeder so she contacted her, only to find her selling puppies to buy a new air conditioner unit for her home.
With the help of Circle L Ranch Rescue in their assistance with fostering and placement of Rico, he is now in a very loving home with his new dad, Terry. They drove all the way from Tuscon to my Phoenix studio for his photo session. On the way, they stopped at Valley Dogs to pick up some clothes that they had for him. Rico loves to get dressed up but I think he looks smashing in a plain black tee..
As you can probably tell, he get’s a little chilly and maybe a bit bashful when he is naked…
Valley Dogs is a 501(c)(3) non-profit, no-kill animal rescue organization who’s mission is to rescue dogs that have been abandoned, neglected, or otherwise placed in harm’s way. Our rescue dogs are cared for in foster homes until they are adopted to approved permanent homes. Since 2003, Valley Dogs has rescued and rehomed over 1000 dogs.
You can reach Valley Dogs by phone at 480-898-DOGS, by email at mwest@valleydogs.org or you can visit their website at www.valleydogs.org
by adogslifephoto
2 comments
Christine - all the way from Tucson? if I had a dog, I would drive all the way from D.C. for you to photograph her!!! seriously. I’m not even a dog person and you’ve singlehandedly made me fall in love time and again with dogs, their stories, they gaze, their warmth. that sweater is priceless. man, Rico is one cool dog, and Terry is one cool and happy Dad. bless them both.
fantastic photos!
Michael West - Rico is a perfect example of a great pup that has found his way in life. His previous mom loved him and loved him enough to know when it was time to let him go to another home that could provide what she could not due to financial constraints. These pictures are of a dog that has battled back to find a home of great love. Thank you Susan for capturing him at his best. Thank you Terry for opening your home to him.