Jonathan Van Ness Dishes About Their Campaign With Autotrader for National Dog Day
Jonathan Van Ness's pet adoption journey began almost 20 years ago—but even as a seasoned parent, they're still learning.
"Every time you adopt a baby, you're taking a chance," they explained in their interview with Sweety High. Each animal comes with its own sets and challenges, but it's a labor of love—and one well worth the effort because, with five adorable cats and three sweet dogs, Jonathan says they've taught them what it means to feel that steadfast heart for someone else and, ultimately, led them to heal from inside.
Jonathan has adopted all their pets, and it has swiftly become a passion of theirs. So, this National Dog Day (Aug. 26), they paired up with Autotrader to further encourage adoption. The long-term residents at their local shelter, Austin Pets Alive!, received a (very coveted) Jonathan-approved makeover with the help of their groomers.
In addition to last week's event, Autotrader donated $20,000 to Austin Pets Alive!, Safe in Austin and PAWS Shelter of Central Texas. And they released a list recommending their favorite cars for dog owners, so you and your furry friend can comfortably ride in style.
Keep reading to hear more about Jonathan's partnership with Autotrader and the lessons they've learned in their many years of experience with pet adoption.
Sweety High: Can you take us through the Autotrader event?
Jonathan Van Ness: We did makeovers on three dogs who have been at the Austin Pets Alive! shelter long-term, and they all turned out so gorgeous—if I do say so myself. They're the cutest dogs you'll ever see in your life.
(Photo Credit: McLendon Photography)
To celebrate National Dog Day, Autotrader also partnered with Safe in Austin, another organization I am so passionate about. Two of my dogs come from there, Elton and Rose. They focus on fostering and helping animals with disabilities. They also have an initiative that pairs kids with disabilities with an animal and a volunteer program that does really amazing community building.
Autotrader didn't just want to help us find the right car but help find the right fit for our dogs, too.
Go National Dog Day! We love dogs.
Also read about: The Best Products for Pampering Your Pups This International Dog Day
SH: You selected the team of doggy stylists heading to Austin Pets Alive! What is something you looked for in their vision of a dog makeover?
JVN: I have five cats and three dogs. My cats' nails grow so freaking fast. And the dogs just mess up stuff with their nails. We found these people that do mobile grooming, and they come to our house. So, I asked for their help because I knew they were great and would take really good care of our customers.
Also read about: Pup Parents (and Their Dogs) Will LOVE These Amazing Products
SH: Was adoption always something instinctual to you? What would you say are some of the best reasons to go the adoption route?
JVN: It has always been something important to me. It always goes back to my first cat, Bug the First. I found him when I was 18. He was in the hood of a car. And he totally adopted me. Bug taught me so much about unconditional love and getting outside my depression to take care of someone. He helped me heal.
Honestly, I wouldn't have been able to afford to shop for any animal until two years ago. Animal care and vets are already expensive. And shelters really need our help. In this economy, people have to surrender their animals because they can't afford them.
(Photo Credit: McLendon Photography)
SH: For anyone who isn't quite ready to commit to being a pet parent, what other ways can they support adoption during the Autotrader campaign?
JVN: Of course, monetary donations are helpful. If you don't have the money but can volunteer your time, that could be even more valuable.
Fostering is a huge way people can help clear space in shelters for dogs that are in high-risk situations. Volunteering is also great for all the puppers because they need walks and socialization. So, when they do get adopted, they're used to being around different people and different types of people.
And as long as they're clean, they could always use some extra toys!
Want to celebrate your pup on social media? Read HERE for 10 accurate quotes about dogs to use as the caption for your next Instagram post.