To capture beautiful portraits of adoptable dogs and their unique personalities, Badass Animal Rescue teamed up with photographer Jen Hillenga of @thewaysofthedog for a series of professional photoshoots at the Wythe Hotel in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. Using the hotel's chic backdrops and stunning views of the skyline, the portraits help potential adopters connect with the dogs and visualize an ideal future together. The initiative was recently featured on CBS News, bringing widespread attention to the critical role high-quality photos play in the dog adoption process.

“All the shelters that I know, everybody that I’m trying to help, are overrun with dogs. It’s a crisis,” says Jen, who donated her time and talent. “The photos for rescue dogs really matter. A photo, if it’s done well, can show off the personality, can show off a happy dog. It helps to get them adopted.”

“When a dog is in a shelter, you don’t see their true personality at all because it’s a really stressful environment. A lot of times they’re shut down and they look very unhappy. That can intimidate a lot of people,” explains Maria Reask, Marketing Communications Manager at Badass Animal Rescue. “These photos show them living the lux life and what life can be—that’s what we want for all these dogs.”

Take a look at just some of the photos from the shoot below. If you think one of these Badasses could be the perfect fit for your family, apply to adopt.

Freddie Mercury

Meet Freddie Mercury, a one-year-old, 43-pound pup whose personality shines as brightly as his namesake. He’s a sweet soul who showers everyone with affection—humans, dogs, and cats alike. Originally from Selma, Alabama, and known as a class clown, Freddie is goofy, entertaining, and delightfully clumsy. He enjoys walks and playtime with his favorite toys. At a moderate energy level, he’s flexible and ready for any adventure. His foster family describes him as “a great dog and will be a wonderful companion.” APPLY TO ADOPT FREDDIE MERCURY

Gemini

Meet Gemini, a 1.5-year-old, 48-pound hound mix who loves to learn. He has two distinct sides: silly and playful, and smart and studious. Gemini is very bright and learns commands quickly, making training a joy. He would love nothing more than practicing commands and then going outside for a game of fetch. Originally from Georgia, Gemini has likely lived in a home previously as evidenced by his impressive behavior and leash skills. At a high energy level, Gemini makes an excellent running buddy and is good with other dogs and kids. His foster family describes him as “very outgoing and a fast learner, picking up commands like 'sit' in just 24 hours!” APPLY TO ADOPT GEMINI

Mavis Staples

Meet Mavis Staples, a 3-year-old hound mix from Georgia. Mavis is the perfect blend of “The Worker,” “The Empath,” and “The Family Dog.” With moderate energy, she enjoys learning and training and has adapted well to crate and potty training. Her foster family describes her as outgoing and very responsive, quickly picking up commands. Mavis can be a bit needy, often nudging your hand for more pets, which is adorable but something her foster family is working on. She loves affection and is great with kids and other dogs. Mavis is ready to bring joy to her forever home. APPLY TO ADOPT MAVIS STAPLES

Pluto

Meet Pluto, a 4-year-old, 45-pound pup with a playful personality. Originally from Georgia, this affectionate and outgoing guy loves to greet everyone he meets. Pluto is good with other dogs and has a moderate energy level. His foster family says: “Pluto is so eager to please. He's a tail thumper and loves belly rubs!” Pluto has tested positive for heartworm disease, a serious but very treatable medical condition common among dogs rescued from the South. He is currently finishing up treatment and will be ready for adoption soon. Are you ready to make Pluto the center of your universe? APPLY TO ADOPT PLUTO

Ruby Rose

Ruby Rose is a sweet retriever mix who was recently adopted! Originally from Selma, Alabama, Ruby initially tested positive for heartworm. Now fully recovered, Ruby is enjoying a wonderful life with her new family.

Siouxsie Sioux

Never heard of this Rock ‘n Roll legend? Get ready to meet Siouxsie Sioux! She’s a fierce frontwoman who’s sick of being on tour. She’s ready to settle into her forever home. She is 2-year-old pitbull mix with a moderate energy level. She is crate trained, leash trained, and gets along well with other dogs. Siouxsie enjoys plenty of walks and has a friendly disposition, making her a wonderful family dog. The rock star life can’t last forever, Siouxsie is ready to be your family’s dog. Spellbound by this girl? APPLY TO ADOPT SIOUXSIE SIOUX

Treasure Chest

Meet Treasure Chest, an 11-month-old, 36-pound boy who is friendly, affectionate, loyal, and playful. Originally from the U.S. Virgin Islands, Treasure Chest was kept in a crate outside the main hallway at a shelter that was over capacity. A true hidden gem, he waited patiently and always greeted visitors with a curious head tilt. At a higher energy level, he makes a perfect running buddy and gets along well with other dogs and children. His foster family notes: “His most favorite thing to do is dig in the toy bin and take turns with every item.” Treasure Chest lives up to his name and is ready to bring endless joy to his new home. APPLY TO ADOPT TREASURE CHEST

Whitney Chase

Last but not least is Whitney Chase, who you may recognize from a viral Instagram reel where Whitney stole the hearts of hundreds of thousands! Whitney is a 1-year-old, 49-pound affectionate and friendly pup. She is smart and commands are a breeze for her. Originally from Selma, Alabama, she was stepped on by a bull at just six weeks old, causing damage to her hind legs. After going through physical therapy and having her left leg amputated, Whitney has made a miraculous recovery, and life as a tripod doesn’t hold her back. She is great with other dogs, cats, and children, making her an ideal family dog. At a moderate energy level, she is flexible and adapting well to city life. Her foster family describes her as sweet, lovable, and perfect for any home willing to continue her physical therapy. APPLY TO ADOPT WHITNEY CHASE

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