Dogs of the Triangle: Book of stylish local pets will save homeless animals

The beautiful coffee table book is a "pet project" of photographer Renee Sprink, who will spend her summer taking photos of more than 100 local dogs.

The portraits will fill the book, and book sales and portrait donations will go straight to Second Chance Pet Adoptions.

"I've always grown up with dogs," Sprink said. "It's just part of who I am.We have two rescue dogs at home. It's astounding how many dogs and cats there are that are just abandoned and abused and neglected and that's just something I want to help alleviate in any way I can."

According to Rachel Cronmiller with Second Chance Pet Adoptions, the rescue is the oldest "no kill" program in the Triangle.

"What we do is champion homeless cats and dogs and their quest to find a forever home," Cronmiller said.

Mary Ann Poole is excited for Sprink to take photos of Baxter, her 8-year-old dog that still has a lot of "puppy" still inside.

"I've got lots of pictures from my camera, but I always thought it would be fun to have a professional photograph," said Poole, adding that Baxter is "very photogenic."

Another dog owner, Rene Misenheimer, rescued Thomas, one of an unexpected litter of puppies born to her sister-in-law's dog.

"We weren't looking for another dog in our family -- but we can't imagine now not having Thomas," Misenheimer said.

Sprink's hope is that the project will help more families discover the love they are missing in a pet.

"Animals are much more than just animals -- they are part of the family," Cronmiller said. "They have a place in our daily lives."

Sprink will continue scheduling dog portraits until the end of summer. A publish date for the book has not been annouced.