The St. Louis Ballet is celebrating its annual “Muttcracker” event to help “Dancers and Dogs” find homes for strays, and this holiday season the organization is saving its 50,000th dog.
According to People Magazine, “Muttcracker” is a photo series designed to give homeless dogs and even some cats more press so they can find their forever home.
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Dancers and Dogs founder Kelly Pratt said, “It is so special to know that our work might bring more attention to dogs and cats that deserve a second chance at a happy and comfortable life.”
“And if we can bring a smile to people’s faces at the same time, all the better!” she added.
The dogs featured come from a nearby charity, Stray Rescue of Saint Louis.
Stray Rescue CEO Cassady Caldwell said, “We can’t think of a more beautiful way to showcase their personalities.”
This year marks the 25th anniversary of Dancers and Dogs and is saving the cause’s 50,000th dog.
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People Magazine reported that one of the dogs who will be saved this year is a special needs pooch by the name of Owen.
His story, like those of many rescue dogs, is one of resilience through pain.
Stray Rescue chief of clinic administration Julia Gabbert noted, “We got him in, and he had all this damage to his feet and legs because he had just been dragging himself around.”
“We took X-rays, and he had tons of bullet fragments still in his back and spine,” she added.
Owen recovered from his injuries, but his back legs are now paralyzed. Despite this, the Australian cattle dog is determined to get out and move around.
Owen has a wheelchair and loves being active. Gabbard noted, “He’s super snuggly, loves attention, loves people. He’s just a really good boy,” she continued.
Owen uses a diaper and needs a family who can help him with his wheelchair, but Gabbard could not stress enough how wonderful he is.
She said, “He loves people. He’s really good with children, he’s really good with other dogs. He is just a really, really good dog.”
“Whoever adopts this dog is just going to be so happy,” she concluded.
