"Junkyard Dog," Lori Fusaro

Out on a daily run, award-winning photographer and dog lover Lori Fusaro stumbled across a young pup, filthy and depressed, chained in a junkyard. Fusaro just couldn't keep running past. She had to do something. So she took heart-tugging photos of this imprisoned dog, hoping to get her noticed. Fusaro, a dog rescue volunteer, then partnered with local Orange County rescue group Barks of Love to get the word out. Within two weeks, "Junkyard Dog" found a  new name and new home here in Orange County.

That wasn't the first time Fusaro used her photography talent to help get homeless dogs adopted. Check out her blog post ("Yes, I Am a Crazy Dog Lady") about one of the first dogs she helped find happiness. Fusaro's photographic work captures the souls of these dogs, who in every other picture might have appeared blurry, scared or unapproachable. She knows that many times, people browse websites first when looking for their next dog, and an attention-grabbing picture on those sites can work wonders.

"Originally, I donated my time photographing the dogs available for adoption," Fusaro said. "I wanted to give the dogs the best opportunity to get seen, and a good photo makes such a difference.  More than once, someone has told me that my photographs were the reason they came to meet a certain dog.  I can't tell you what an amazing feeling that is."

This Saturday, Oct. 10, Fusaro is reuniting with Barks of Love for a holiday-themed fundraiser in Laguna Hills. Dogs and their owners will be photographed at Pumpkin City's Pumpkin Farm (24155, Laguna Hills Mall, by Sears), from 10 a.m. until 8 p.m. 

"Since the holidays are right around the corner, I thought photographing dogs and their humans at a pumpkin patch would be a great way to let the larger community participate," Fusaro said. "It will also bring more awareness to Barks Of Love and their dogs, and hopefully get more dogs adopted."

For every donation given, half of the money goes to Barks of Love, and the other half goes back to you in the form of a photo credit enabling you to buy your pictures. Bring in a dog toy and receive another $25 credit print card. All dogs and people are welcome; you can have photos taken of just people, just dogs, or everyone together.  Sessions are limited and are first come first serve, so book your session early to make sure you get a spot. Be sure to include your preferred time slot when booking.

For more information, check out Barks of Love or Fusaro Photography. Don't forget to view some of Lori's photographs!