DeWayne Woods: Animals Are Part of the Family

Award-winning gospel artist DeWayne Woods sings to congregations of thousands every week and now he is spreading that abundant love to animals. DeWayne refers to his dogs as his “kids” and believes that raising children in an environment in which they see animals treated with love and respect will help our culture see animals as they see each other—as equals. Animal companions are a part of DeWayne’s family, and family members aren’t abandoned outside and left at the mercy of the elements—they live indoors with the rest of the family. Too many dogs spend their lonely days and cold nights at the end of a chain. Chained dogs are often deprived of adequate food, water, and veterinary care—in addition to having their emotional and social needs completely ignored. They are vulnerable to cruel people and other animals and rarely have sufficient shelter to shield them from inclement weather.

Woods feels that it is a guardian’s job to show animals the way, not based on dominance, but on love and guidance to make the most of this mutually beneficial relationship. In DeWayne’s ad for PETA, he poses with his two adorable dogs and encourages everyone to welcome companion animals into their home, where they can be safe and warm.

In this behind-the-scenes video, DeWayne sheds light on the cruelty of forcing dogs to live at the end of a chain and exposes cruelty to animals in circuses. Watch his interview, and spread a message of compassion for God’s creatures.

You can make a difference for dogs forced to spend a life of loneliness and neglect at the end of a chain. There are many steps that you can take to help individual dogs or to help an entire community of dogs by contacting your local government.