These Shelter Dogs In Rural Kentucky Are Ready For Their Closeup

PIKE COUNTY, KY — Lucy is a pit bull mix with aspirations of being a lapdog. Blinky is missing her left eye but doesn’t let that slow her down. Tiny is a small mixed breed with a big personality.

All three dogs are among the current residents of the Pike County Animal Shelter in rural Appalachia. But with a little help from Maggie Epling, they may soon find their forever families.

Epling, 20, is a hobby photographer who is spending the summer in Pike County with her grandfather and has recently started taking high-quality portraits of shelter pets in need of homes, hoping the photos will draw potential adopters.

“I know the shelter is often overwhelmed,” Epling said, noting there are no spay or neuter laws in Kentucky and the shelter is sometimes at capacity.

In order to capture each animal’s good side, Epling spends 20 minutes outside with a dog before the photo session to help them have a little fun and get rid of any pre-shoot jitters. Once in the studio, she uses treats and toys to keep them engaged.

“I just try to make it really positive,” said Epling, a rising junior at the University of Kentucky who plans to pursue a career in law.

Epling’s pictures are packed with personality. Some are sweet or sensitive, while others are smiley and silly. In one photo, Jake, an energetic mixed breed, trains his eyes on a treat as it flies through the air.

The photos are already getting traction. Since Epling posted her first round of shots on Facebook a few days ago, at least one dog has been adopted by someone who saw their picture on social media, and several people have contacted Epling for more information about the shelter or a specific animal. National Public Radio and Newsweek have published stories about her efforts.

“I’m hoping it will help a lot,” she said.

The cost to adopt from the Pike County Animal Shelter is $25 for dogs and $20 for cats, and there are no geographic restrictions. For more information, visit the shelter's Facebook page.