Shelter Celebrates Over 50k Rescues With Amazing 'Muttcracker' Photoshoot

An animal rescue shelter in St. Louis, Missouri is celebrating its 25-year anniversary with a magical holiday photoshoot this week.

Featuring cats and dogs that have overcome some of life's hardest obstacles, "The Muttcracker" photoshoot is part of a collaboration between the Dancers and Dogs photography project, Saint Louis Ballet, and Stray Rescue of St. Louis.

One of the creators of the Dancers and Dogs photography project, Kelly Pratt, told Newsweek: "It is so special to know that our work might bring more attention to dogs and cats that deserve a second chance at a happy and comfortable life. And if we can bring a smile to people's faces at the same time, all the better."

The fun festive photos are part of the shelter's 25th-anniversary celebrations as the nonprofit reflects on its work so far. In the last year alone, Stray Rescue has shared the stories of dogs—from Lily Monet who was retrieved from an abandoned building by the Stray Rescue team to the "warrior" dog Wishbone who was found emaciated on Thanksgiving.

Natalie Thomson from Stray Rescue of St. Louis told Newsweek: "We are reflecting back and honoring every precious life of the 50,000+ animals we have rescued over the course of our history. Over the years, Stray Rescue has grown and evolved, but always staying true to our mission of saving the lives of the most victimized and vulnerable animals in our community and beyond. It is only fitting that we mark our silver anniversary by celebrating the unique and beautiful animals we have."

The series of gorgeous pictures feature some of Stray Rescue's residents including cats and dogs as they pose with famous characters from The Nutcracker ballet.

"Sadly, we have seen back-to-back abuse cases this year," said Thomson. "One after the next, and many of them came to us too late. After 25 years you would think we've seen it all, but we had our hearts broken this summer more than ever.

"With an increase in intakes, you also have to consider an increase in medical bills. They go hand in hand," she said. "We are so happy we can help thousands of dogs and cats every year, nurse them to health and place them with such loving families."

As part of the project, Saint Louis Ballet is also celebrating Stray Rescue by offering tickets to see their performance of The Nutcracker at Touhill Performing Arts Center for 10 percent off when you use the promo code ADOPT.

This code can be used on performances on the following dates: December 16 at 7 pm, December 17 at 7 pm, December 20 at 6 pm, December 22 at 2.30 pm and 7 pm, and December 23 at 2.30 pm and 7 pm.

Even as the celebrations continue, work doesn't stop for the team at Stray Rescue.

"We currently have more than 500 dogs and cats waiting for adoption this holiday season," said Thomson, who urged people to "save a life and foster or adopt from a shelter near you."