Beth Alexander Owner and Photographer at Unleash Pet Photography is spreading joy in her community with giant 4-foot banners of funny dog faces. She is using images created from her CATCH-A-TREAT™ fundraising events to try and spread joy through laughter.
The 50 feet long art display is located by Barkleys’ the general store on the main street of Avonmore and will be there over the course of the winter months (December, January, February).
Why the Winter Months? Depression is a leading cause of disability worldwide and is a major contributor to the overall global burden of disease. Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that comes and goes in a seasonal pattern. SAD is sometimes known as “winter depression” because the symptoms are usually more apparent and more severe during the winter.
In modern society, fierce competition and socioeconomic interaction stress the quality of life, causing a negative influence on a person’s mental health. Laughter is a positive sensation, and seems to be a useful and healthy way to overcome stress and depression.
So what is the solution to feeling cheerful in the winter months? Looking at funny, silly dog pictures of course!
The project is also fundraising for Equi-Soul’s Community Wellness Group which offers a subsidized program. Equi-Soul is dedicated to helping by using horses and Equine Assisted Learning certified coaches as communication tools to reach people and support their mental wellness recovery. Their sessions are designed to support those struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, confidence building, goal setting, relationship conflicts, and more.
