Shop and Adopt: Photographing the Grand Opening of Thrift Shop Berkeley Humane in South Berkeley
I recently saw the following comic shared in my local dog park group. It made me laugh—but it also gave me a surprising sense of clarity.
I’d been wrestling with a bigger question: In a world filled with such hardship—homophobia, racism, political turmoil, and the list goes on—why do so many of us focus on “saving” animals?
I volunteer my photography for Berkeley Humane, and I’m just one of hundreds of people who show up every week to care for animals and help them find homes. And while yes, I care deeply for the dogs and cats I photograph, my sense of purpose comes from what I believe animals provide for humans.
They are our emotional support, our companions, our comic relief. They help us cope with everything else. So no, helping animals isn’t more important than human rights. But it is connected. When we care for animals, we care for ourselves. We foster compassion, connection, and healing.
Most of my volunteer work with Berkeley Humane takes place in a studio: a simple stage, a bright backdrop, and a few squeaky toys to grab attention. But recently, I had the joy of stepping out of the studio to photograph something special: the grand opening of the second Thrift Shop Berkeley Humane—a bright, welcoming new space on Ashby Avenue in South Berkeley.
The celebration was filled with warmth. Sunlight poured in through the tall front windows as neighbors, volunteers, and curious shoppers wandered through vintage racks, sipped complimentary drinks, and snuck dog treats to the furry guests of honor. There was a ribbon-cutting ceremony, cheerful chatter, and of course—a few adoptable animals looking for love.
The shop itself is a delight. Run entirely by friendly volunteers, it offers everything from high end vintage fashion and home décor to dog outfits and treats. But more than that, it’s a space infused with purpose. Every item purchased supports Berkeley Humane’s mission to care for and rehome animals. It’s a place where vintage finds meet fresh starts.
Photographing the event, I witnessed joy in so many forms: kids mingling with animals, pets in their thrifted attire, volunteers greeting shoppers like old friends.
This day was a reminder that even small, local efforts can create ripples of compassion—and that by helping animals, we’re not ignoring the world’s problems. We’re making space for kindness in the middle of it all.
