Working as a pet photographer as well as volunteering in a rescue, I have been blessed with getting to know a number of senior dogs. While I lost my Midnight at a young age, I was very fortunate to have Shamus with me for many years. Shamus was my clown, but boy did he know how to live! His wisdom grew as the years pressed on. I learned that each day spent with my senior dog was a lesson on the importance of living in the present, cherishing our bond and embracing our everlasting friendship.
Live Now
Dogs live in the moment. Senior dogs are experts at embracing the here and now. Shamus was particularly adept at this. Even as his legs started to fail him- he was still wanting to get outside and enjoy a walk or his ball or whatever I was ready to play with him. I have seen this with images of dogs I have taken as well. They don’t worry about the mess they made in the kitchen when they decided to explore mom’s cabinets (save for those few seconds when she discovered the mess). Instead they savor the sun shine on their back as they lay in the yard, or the walk to their favorite swimming hole, or even the joy of a simple treat. Our loyal companions remind us to relish life’s little pleasures and find peace and contentment in the present.
Spend time together with the ones you love
Those eyes gazing from your senior dog can speak volumes on who they feel is important in their lives. They teach us as the years go by that happiness is not measured in material possessions or climbing the corporate ladder. Happiness grows from shared experiences with the ones we love. Those belly rubs, playful moments or even the times of tranquil silence remind us that shared togetherness should take priority.
Our Friendship is forever
The bond formed with our senior dog will be with us long after they have left this earth. It transcends time. Those countless times when we share a walk, some laughter or tears makes our bond even stronger as the years pass by. While Declan is starting to get those tell tale white muzzle, I know that our connection has grown deeper than when I took home from the shelter years ago. Senior dogs teach us that genuine friendships are ageless and enduring. Through the art of photography, we can freeze these timeless connections in artwork that celebrates our shared moments and the bonds that define our relationship.
Preserving memories
Creating artwork from a photo session with your senior dog serves as a reminder of the lessons they have taught us through their presence in our lives. They remind you of the strength your dog imparted to you during tough times and moments of bonding and bliss as you enjoyed each others company. Whether you choose multiple images for an album, or a large Framed piece for the wall, these images are not mere decoration. They are a reflection of the moments that have shaped the relationship and a celebration of the special place in our heart that we hold dear for our senior dog.
Senior dogs are not just our pets; they are our life coaches and eternal friends. Through their companionship, we learn to live in the moment, cherish our loved ones, and understand the true meaning of friendship. As a pet photographer, I find it very gratifying to create a visual reflection of the bond you have with your senior dog. So let’s embrace the wisdom of our senior dogs and create artwork that will reflect that forever friendship we have with our dog.
It’s an International circle!
Join the fun! This group of International Professional Pet Photographers bring you information on our weekly topics. While we focus on one broad subject, we may each have a different spin on it or provide you with additional information from our world of pet photography. Follow the next link to view how the next amazing photographer tackles this weeks challenge. Follow each link at the end of each blog until you return to me. Then you have successfully completed our blog circle. Enjoy!
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Meet Zoey
Australian Cattle dog/blue Heeler- Zoey is around 6.5 years old and would make a great swim companion! She loves the water and showing off her swimming skills. She walks well on the leash and loves everyone she meets! She does well with older kids and would love a yard to run and play in. She would need to meet any dogs living in the home.
Please contact Friends of Second Chance.
Friends of Second Chance Canine Adoption Shelter
6660 E. Seneca Turnpike
Jamesville, NY 13078
315-435-5584
https://www.jamesvillesecondchance.com
Capture your journey with your pet. Nancy Kieffer is a pet and nature photographer serving Central New York, the Adirondacks and Beyond. Capture how you share your life with your pet! It may be a vacation adventure or curled up on the couch. Travel assignments welcomed.
