Moments like this offer glimpses of the true dog within, the one that would blossom in a loving “forever” home. It may surprise you to learn that these are shelter dogs—two of thousands of homeless animals in Iowa's animal shelters. Most visitors to shelters only see these animals in their kennels or cages, looking worried and stressed. Once the dogs are out of their kennels, however… well, you can see the difference!

The canine residents of the Iowa City/Coralville Animal Care and Adoption Center have access to their own large fenced yard, with plenty of room to run, play, and cuddle with volunteers. Dogs like Tate (left, Animal Center alum) and Ariel (still waiting to be adopted) are able to experience these moments of joy: Tate blissfully chewing his favorite squishy ball; Ariel trying to impress Tate with her upside-down antics. Volunteers have the chance to see who these dogs really are away from the stresses of the shelter. They try to bring that back to visitors in the hopes of finding the dogs their “forever” homes.

Pictures like this hang in the Animal Center, bringing the freedom of the field back to the shelter, showing visitors the dogs’ true selves and their ability to find happiness despite their status as homeless animals. Until the dogs are lucky enough to find a new family and a yard of their own for frolicking—like Tate did—we depend on the volunteers to continue to give Animal Center dogs those joyful moments.

Note: Since this essay was written, Ariel was adopted by a wonderful forever home.