Not Left Behind by Best Friends Animal Society
Not Left Behind: Rescuing the Pets of New Orleans
by Best Friends Animal Society
I came across this book on one of my lists at the library tonight and had to read it. It's filled with amazing photos and short, easy-to-read stories about pets who were rescued from the post-Katrina floods by the Best Friends Animal Society volunteers. There are beautiful stories of animals who had been stranded on top of vehicles for days who nuzzled their rescuers once pulled onto the boat, of volunteers moving hundreds of heavy bags of dog food, of figuring out hos to rescue scared little cats, of dogs nursed back to health, of volunteers who expertly washed and groomed animals covered in mud and oil, of inspiring people who dropped everything to take care of these animals who were stranded and couldn't help themselves.
I teared up during the first cat rescue, and then again when one citizen was reunited with her dog, Baby.
The rescuers spent more time rescuing instead of recording and photographing. But there are still some absolutely moving photos. These photos are powerful, beautiful, and amazingly artistic. And there is just enough explanation for each to let you know the story behind each. More than 3,200 pets were rescued after Katrina, and only a few handfuls made it into the book. But they are a great representation of the heart and the hard work of the many volunteers. I found it inspiring and heartwarming.