Local photographer focuses new gallery on former mill dogs

The life-changing experiences of people adopting former puppy mill dogs is being shared by a local photographer.

On Nov. 10, a multimedia gallery called the Mill Dog Gala will be held at Fixed Gear Brewery at 20 Alma St. The event will have photos of former puppy mill dogs on display and show a video about the dogs behind the photos. There will also be a silent auction and other activities to raise money for rescue organizations involved in the film. While there is no admission fee, donations are encouraged.

"What I'm really hoping is that folks walk away learning a little bit more about the reality of puppy mill dogs and that mills are out there and are still active," said Laura Wombwell, the owner of Laura Wombwell Photograpy, and the photographer behind Mill Dog Gala.

Wombwell, who specializes in pet photography, began her business after she started taking photos of her former puppy mill dog, Stella. A previous article in GuelphToday notes her business supports animal shelters and rescue organizations locally and in the surrounding area in Stella's memory.

"I wanted to go a step further and really dig into some of the stories of these incredibly special dogs," Wombwell said about her inspiration for this new project.

Wombwell interviewed a mix of six rescue dog owners and people who work with former mill dogs in Guelph, Hamilton, Kitchener and other places in southwestern Ontario. The video also includes one story of a woman who has helped foster over 300 dogs. 

"It's been amazing for me to see there are other owners out there with these mill dogs, going through the same issues, having the same challenges, but also having the same life-altering love that you develop with these dogs," said Wombwell. 

Experimenting with video for the first time, Wombwell said she is excited to be doing something different to help rescue dogs. Leading up to night of the gallery, short trailers will tease the different dog stories.

"I think it's going to be fabulous," she said.

The gallery also aims to raise awareness about puppy mills and encourage new pet owners to do their research when considering a new pet.

"Even though we don't have dogs being sold in pet store's anymore, all of that has just moved to the internet," said Wombwell, "so raising some education about how you can find a reputable breeder, a reputable rescue organization, is really important in getting that message out there."

If people are thinking about adopting a rescue dog, Wombwell said they shouldn't overlook the shy, shutdown mill dogs.

"All they need is love and structure and patience and they will absolutely change your life."