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For the last two years, I have been photographing dogs wearing costumes that I made from post-consumer recycled materials - discarded newspaper, beer boxes, paper plates, plastic cups, etc. - as part of a pet portrait series called Paper Hats.

The goal of Paper Hats is to show that all anyone or anything needs to shine is a second chance. Whether it’s a foster dog who was dealt a rough start or a newspaper circular printed only to be never read, that with a little love, patience, and creativity it could be something amazing.

When we started the series, we were initially working exclusively with fostered and homed dogs from an organization called Bella's Bully Buddies. Bella's is a 501c all volunteer operated nonprofit rescue and foster group that specializes in finding homes for American Pit Bull Terriers, Staffordshire Terriers, Bull Terriers, American Bulldogs, and other blockheaded pups.

Many of whom are sprung from high kill shelters and shelters located in municipalities that do not allow "bully breeds" to be adopted out. While the series has since expanded to include other breeds, we remain committed to helping these poor pups find homes.

Proceeds from all Paper Hats print sales benefit Bella's Bully Buddies. Prints are available for purchase at the link below.

More info: k9rt.com | puptrait.com

#1

I Make Cute Hats For Dogs Out Of Trash To Prove That All Shelter Pets Deserve A Second Chance (26 Puppy Pics)

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sharron lynn parsons
Community Member
6 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This is an interesting shot, I do like it, however, I would prefer the shots to be outdoors in nature, I applaud you for your help, we know there are too many dogs and kittens in need of a home, bless you for your dedication for an important cause !!!

Dodger
Community Member
6 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

i adopted a pit/lab mix and hes my little baby. just because hes a pit doesnt mean i love him any less. PLEASE ADOPT SOME OF THOSE POOR PITS.

Eagle Girl
Community Member
6 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

To be or not to be...going home with you today, where I will love you & kiss you forever

Allison Covet
Community Member
6 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

“Methinks I look rather fetching in this!”

Waxier Cereal Ai
Community Member
6 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This is beside the point, but these photos are amazing!

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    #3

    I Make Cute Hats For Dogs Out Of Trash To Prove That All Shelter Pets Deserve A Second Chance (26 Puppy Pics)

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    Alex Craig
    Community Member
    6 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Oh my goodness... He is adorable.

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    #5

    I Make Cute Hats For Dogs Out Of Trash To Prove That All Shelter Pets Deserve A Second Chance (26 Puppy Pics)

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    Eagle Girl
    Community Member
    6 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Wanted: Friend to go on long walks, to local pub, while wearing matching fedoras

    Community Member
    6 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    This guy always reminded me of Kid Rock. There's something about the trilby and ears coming together, the likeness is uncanny.

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    ChinchillaCheekLover
    Community Member
    6 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    That dog looks just likes me except Im a human not a dog and not wearing a hat! So super close! Uncanning actually! Please check out my SoundCloud! Sometimes my dog spits bars on there!!!! Awoooooo!!!! Sometimes just look outside and you can see the dogs! Amirite??? Pinkies if I am! Gotta go! Chao!!! MWAAAAAA!!!

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    #6

    I Make Cute Hats For Dogs Out Of Trash To Prove That All Shelter Pets Deserve A Second Chance (26 Puppy Pics)

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    Community Member
    6 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Me too, mostly because the little paper sailor is also wearing a tiny paper hat. It somehow feels more detailed and thoughtful, but in all actuality the opposite is true. Each of the paper mache hats and ruff collars all took days to assemble. But I knocked out this little fella in the boat in under 15 minutes, while I was killing time waiting for a client who was running a bit late for their appointment. Which is a good thing, as this hat was destroyed within 5 minutes of it being put to use

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    #8

    I Make Cute Hats For Dogs Out Of Trash To Prove That All Shelter Pets Deserve A Second Chance (26 Puppy Pics)

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    Eagle Girl
    Community Member
    6 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I'm ready for my close up Mr Demille (and to be a chick magnet)

    Roy Phillips
    Community Member
    6 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Lee Marvin from "Paint Your Wagon"...

    Allison Covet
    Community Member
    6 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    He just needs a bow tie & will charm all the ladies

    ANDREA SERRANO MORALES
    Community Member
    6 years ago (edited) Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    may i have some tea with a hint of sugar

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    #11

    I Make Cute Hats For Dogs Out Of Trash To Prove That All Shelter Pets Deserve A Second Chance (26 Puppy Pics)

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    Elaine Dodge
    Community Member
    6 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    So funny how some of them as as pleased as punch and others are 'are we done yet?'

    ✎Kinda_Scarlett
    Community Member
    6 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Reminds me of W***y Wonka for some reason ;)

    #12

    I Make Cute Hats For Dogs Out Of Trash To Prove That All Shelter Pets Deserve A Second Chance (26 Puppy Pics)

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    ChinchillaCheekLover
    Community Member
    6 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    this looks like my teenage son joshua! He barks alot too, my fellow moms know what its like. Coming home to your son barkin at you lol I think its just a phase. I just showed this to Joshua to show him how much he looked like the dog and you know what he does throws my ipad out the window! Lol hes soooooo fiesty!!!

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    #13

    I Make Cute Hats For Dogs Out Of Trash To Prove That All Shelter Pets Deserve A Second Chance (26 Puppy Pics)

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    I Make Cute Hats For Dogs Out Of Trash To Prove That All Shelter Pets Deserve A Second Chance (26 Puppy Pics)

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    #19

    I Make Cute Hats For Dogs Out Of Trash To Prove That All Shelter Pets Deserve A Second Chance (26 Puppy Pics)

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    Allison Covet
    Community Member
    6 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Life & fashion are a balancing act

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    #20

    I Make Cute Hats For Dogs Out Of Trash To Prove That All Shelter Pets Deserve A Second Chance (26 Puppy Pics)

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    Flame Phoenix
    Community Member
    6 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    "We have gathered here today to celebrate hoomans, and the num nums they give us. "

    Allison Covet
    Community Member
    6 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I will wear this ridiculous hat, but you WILL give me chompies

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    #23

    I Make Cute Hats For Dogs Out Of Trash To Prove That All Shelter Pets Deserve A Second Chance (26 Puppy Pics)

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    SHYLAH CAFFERY
    Community Member
    6 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    he looks like he's trying to catch a treat or somthing

    #24

    I Make Cute Hats For Dogs Out Of Trash To Prove That All Shelter Pets Deserve A Second Chance (26 Puppy Pics)

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