The Southern Animal Foundation in New Orleans is a very special new addition to the Tour for Life. Not only do they find homes for cats and dogs, they are also a veterinary clinic and a staple for animal care in the community. Joined by four other groups, there was more of a selection of dogs then you could imagine! From Jackie, a tall and gorgeous 10 year-old Afghan mix, to Muffin, a little 5 year-old Yorkshire terrier mix, there were dogs of all shapes and sizes available – and let’s not forget all the cute puppies! There were some kitties available too, including my little feisty friend, the cutest seven week-old Tabby kitten.

We’re often asked, “How do you measure a successful event? Is it simply a large number of adoptions?” Not at all! Success is measured in the joy that even just one adoption can bring to a group, or from seeing the smile on a new parent’s face when they leave the event with their new baby. For a community and a group that has been through so much already, those smiles mean the world.

-Christina & Hank