Participating in Blog The Change for Animals is something I look forward to. I try to find the perfect story each time. When I saw Norah Levine’s Lifelines Project on The Huffington Post, I knew it was the one to share. As someone who cherishes the bond between humans and their dogs, this project struck a chord with me. Norah shot this amazing series showing the love between humans and their canine (and feline) companions. While the people in these photos are homeless, the love for their pets is undeniable. With help from 4PAWS these pets are healthy and well taken care of.
The 4PAWS program is For People and Animals Without Shelter (4PAWS). This project provides free sterilization services, vaccinations, and veterinary services to the pets of the homeless citizens of Central Texas. 4PAWS is one of the programs run by Animal Trustees of Austin. Inspired by 4Paws, Norah began the Lifelines Project. The Lifelines Project documents and honors the unique relationship between members of the homeless community and their pets.
Pictures are worth 1000 words, but I also really enjoyed listening to what the participants had to say about their pets. Too often people are quick to judge and make assumptions about another person’s lifestyle and ability to care for their pets.
It is common to hear “my dog rescued me.” After looking at these photos and listening to the audio clips, I realize that “Lifelines” is the perfect name for this project.
Follow Norah Levine Photography on Facebook to see more of her work.
About Norah Levine Photography, LLC: Norah is a professional portrait photographer located in Austin, Texas available in Santa Fe, New Mexico by appointment. Norah specializes in portraits of children and pets in their homes and on location. She and her husband have a dog and 3 cats.
Better to be loved and homeless than to be put down in a shelter. These dogs are better loved than some celebrity dogs.
What an awesome project! Many people try to ignore the homeless. But when they have dogs, it appears that more people try to engage them. Dogs help to form a connection with other people.
I’ve also observed that the dogs with homeless people are very centered and calm. Although living on the street is very hard for humans, it’s an awesome way to socialize a dog to a variety of situations and people.
Thanks for introducing me to lifelines. This was fabulous.
Oh wow these photos are so touching. And what an amazing project. I’m so glad to learn about it.
Great to meet you through BTC!
I love read BTC and seeing the various ways people can make a difference.
I’ve seen this and read about it… and love it! Great post!
Even though I know a lot of people have probably seen it, I am so happy to share it. It is an amazing project that truly shows the connection people have with their pets.
You’ve chosen a beautiful subject! Such a talented photographer, such beautiful and touching pictures, such heartwarming stories… the love shared between people and their pets knows no boundaries, and has nor requirements. And that includes housing.
Thank you for introducing us to 4PAWS and Norah’s Lifeline Project!
And thank you for blogging the change for animals,
KimT
btc4animals.com
I’d seen those photos but didn’t know about the project. That’s great. It must be such a comfort to those people to have the love of their pooches. Great post!
Thank you so very much for posting this, I loved the photos and was truly moved by your story. Incredible project/program.
How did I not know this existed in Austin?! Amazing and I love it! We have a large homeless population here, and I do see a lot of homeless people with their pets. So glad they have help caring for them. ATA is awesome 🙂
Such a beautiful organization. I love how she sums it up at the end – to make people think, and realize the bond between humans and animals is universal. So true. This one really got to me, what an amazing project.
SUCH lovely and moving photos. x
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