Every day, thousands of dogs and cats enter shelters across Tampa Bay. They come from all kinds of situations—some are strays, some are surrendered by owners who can no longer care for them, and others are rescued from neglect. But no matter how they arrive, one thing is certain: their very first photo is often the most important factor in whether they get adopted quickly… or get overlooked.
The Problem With Intake Photos
When a pet arrives at a shelter, staff are focused on the essentials—vaccinations, medical checks, paperwork, and getting the pet safely into the system. Photos taken at intake are usually quick snapshots in harsh lighting, inside a kennel, or while the pet is stressed and scared.
- The animal may look fearful, sick, or aggressive when they’re actually not.
- Poor-quality photos don’t stand out in crowded adoption listings.
- Potential adopters scroll right past pets who, in person, are sweet and full of personality.
Sadly, a bad photo can keep a pet waiting weeks or even months longer for a home.
What Second Shot Does
Second Shot gives these pets exactly what the name says—a second shot at being seen for who they really are. Instead of a blurry intake photo, they get a professional portrait session designed to bring out their personality.
- Dogs who looked anxious behind kennel bars get to run in the yard and show off their smiles.
- Cats who seemed shy in a cage are captured lounging in comfort or playing with toys.
- Every photo is crafted to stop someone scrolling and make them say, “That’s my pet!”
Why It Matters
Better photos don’t just look nice—they change outcomes. A single strong portrait can:
- Shorten a pet’s length of stay by helping them get adopted faster.
- Increase exposure through viral social media shares.
- Save lives by freeing up shelter space for the next animal in need.
When people can see a pet’s true spirit, connections happen. Families adopt. Kennels open up. More animals get their own second chance.
Sponsors Make This Possible
Second Shot is powered by partnerships with compassionate brands and community members. For example, NaturVet, a leader in pet supplements, has proudly sponsored Second Shot—helping give countless shelter pets the professional photos they need to find loving homes. Their support not only transforms adoption outcomes but also inspires other companies to step up and make an impact.
How You Can Help
👉 You or your company can sponsor Second Shot for as little as $100 per pet. Sponsors are recognized on social media posts, shelter content, and sometimes even in national press when transformation stories go viral.
Every sponsorship directly helps a pet get adopted—and saves another life by opening up space in the shelter.
📩 Interested in sponsoring Second Shot? Contact adam@agoldphoto.com to get started.
You can see who is still available for adoption at the Humane Society of Tampa Bay.
