Today we’d like to introduce you to Victoria Lily Shaffer.
Hi Victoria Lily, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
People are always surprised to hear that I didn’t grow up around a ton of dogs. It wasn’t until I was 12 that I discovered what dog rescue and adoption was and convinced my parents to adopt our first dog. It was such a rewarding experience that six months later, my family adopted our second dog. When I went to college, I missed having dogs around and I adopted my dogs, Rue and Echo, at the age of 19.
Rue came with a lot of trauma whereas Echo was very thin and unhealthy. I rehabilitated them both with very little resources and thought, “I can help more dogs!” I began fostering, which led to becoming a volunteer coordinator at a major rescue, and then finally started my own rescue, Pup Culture Rescue, in October of 2021 and writing my debut publication, “Pup Culture: Stories, Tips, and the Importance of Adopting a Dog” to inspire others to foster and adopt. I wanted to be a resource for first-time adopters or those struggling with their dog and create a personalized experience for people looking to adopt and foster.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Nothing worth doing is easy. Dog rescue is emotionally draining, full of ups and downs. There are many times my team and I lose faith in humanity but then a dog gets a second chance at life with a beautiful family and we are reminded why we do what we do and find the strength to keep rescuing.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
My background is in entertainment. I studied Culture and Media studies and Acting at The New School in NYC. Post-college, I worked in production on many notable TV shows. Since really delving into my passion for dog rescue, I have combined my experience in entertainment with dog rescue. I dream of becoming a TV host one day. In the meantime, I create content that inspires people to adopt and provides tips and tricks to dog owners.
Let’s talk about our city – what do you love? What do you not love?
Likes: Dogs, hiking, traveling, trying new foods, crafting.
Contact Info:
- Website: victorialilyshaffer.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/victorialilyshaffer/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/victorialilyshaffer
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCO71GRsJ3gch3z2JyptjsdQ
Image Credits
Professional photos by Pasha Riger except headshot in yellow turtleneck and photo with 3 dogs on couch with yellow pants are by Meg Meyer
