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As I’ve mentioned I’m getting a lot of sad news of late. So many of the dogs I photographed in the 2006-2011 span are leaving us. I got the news last week that my friends, Kevin and Don, lost the second of their gaggle of four – Cassie- nicknamed “Girlie” shortly after arriving into her forever home . Having just said goodbye to their dear Blake in September certainly didn’t make this loss any easier.

But then, none of them are easy. Sometimes we know they’re coming – as was the case with this sweet girl. Her kidneys had started failing and supportive measures finally couldn’t keep up.  Knowing does NOT make it easier. It does give you time though. Time to relish their presence in those final months. Time to reflect. Time to spoil them.  And knowing Kevin and Don – they did just that.

Girlie was a rescue. Super shy at first – the photos here were taken not long after she had joined the family –  she always was the “worrier.” Time has a way of healing so many things – even dogs. Whatever darkness her past held, as the years passed, she warmed up and climbed up – right into the hearts of Kevin and Don.

Which is where, of course, she will remain forever. My heart is with my friends right now. I also hold Penny and Dash in my thoughts as the remaining two struggle with the loss of their life long buddies.  RIP sweet Girlie. Say hi to Blakey for all of us.

Little did I know when I met Lisa and Doug, and their two dogs Amelia and Cooper, for a fall session in 2007 that we were beginning a very long and wonderful relationship.  It was a lovely fall day. They met us out on a beautiful piece of property in Western Loudoun County for our “spirited” session with their young dogs. Lisa was pregnant with their first son, Carter at the time.  They knew it was the last time they’d have time to lavish this much attention on their pups.

This was to be only the beginning as I was honored to photograph Carter’s arrival. Then Oliver. Only stepping aside when #3 son Crosby was born as my niche, as you know, is NOT children! But what a glorious family I have come to know and love. And it is with the deepest of sympathy that I write this today in memory of Cooper – who passed this week. Cooper was the poster-dog for pit bulls throughout the land. A gentle, quiet soul. Always watching. Amelia, his counterpart and partner in crime, went before him – both adored. Both dedicated guardians of those 3 special boys.

Dog photography brings many people together. But this family and all the sessions they’ve honored me with, will remain in my heart forever.

My deepest sympathy to Doug, Lisa, Carter, Oliver and Crosby. RIP Cooper. I know you’re running with Amelia again.

With much love.

On a stunning fall day, back in 2009, I had the honor of photographing the dynamic duo known as George and Gracie.  This pair of spectacularly sweet and beautiful Goldens came to Tranquility Farm to romp and “pose” for us.

I learned yesterday that George passed this weekend. I’ve photographed SO many dogs in my career but the magic of George and Gracie has remained with me since that session. This pair exuded beauty and companionship and happiness.

This duo caught the attention of many and are even featured as the “face” of VetCor as we travel to veterinary conferences with our booth.

We know there are no words to help with the sadness of the loss of this dear sweet boy.  But we extend a healing hand and words of support to George’s family.