Adopt-a-Pet: Sophie
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Our own Craig Nakano reported recently on the ‘black dog bias’ of potential pet adopters, a phenomenon noted by shelter workers and rescue groups. An excerpt:
‘It definitely exists,’ said Madeline Bernstein, president of the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Los Angeles. She cited many causes, not the least of which is a misperception that black dogs are mean. ‘It’s that old thing of light is good and dark is evil. The light-versus-dark thing is so ingrained in our consciousness in books and movies. It transfers subliminally in picking out a dog.’
One victim of this bias is Sophie (ID# A0936867) here -- a sweet Labrador Retriever mix at the West L.A. shelter who’s been waiting patiently for months for a new home.
Riley Buehler, a volunteer at the shelter, describes Sophie as intelligent, loyal and eager to please. ‘She is an active dog, so she would be fantastic for someone who likes to walk, jog or hike,’ Riley says. ‘In fact, we have tried some very basic agility skills with her, and she seemed to really enjoy it and performed very well.’
Sophie is medium-sized and loves people and squeaky toys, which, Riley says, ‘are her greatest joy in life.’ She’s about 3 years old and is already spayed. Meet her in person at the West L.A. shelter, 11361 West Pico Blvd. (near the intersection of Pico and Sawtelle), or call 888-4LAPET1 with her ID number for more information.
Interested in learning more about black dog bias? Check out Craig’s story and the accompanying photo gallery of black dogs up for adoption through local shelters and rescue groups.
-- Lindsay Barnett