Animals have a big place in my life.  I spent some time riding my horse just this morning and my dogs are all in their own dog beds surrounding my desk as I write this.

It's hard to find a love as unconditional and pure as the love a dog has for his or her owner.  They seem to have a sixth sense as to when an extra cuddle or maybe a giggle is due.  My first dog, Molly, has a very special place in my heart.  I picked her up as a puppy when I was 20, ready to move to another province without any of my family.  As you can imagine, a lot has happened in my life since that day ten years ago, and she has been my steady little soul through it all.  

When I came across a post on my facebook feed of a very special dog, I had to reach out.  Lady is loved by a family I have been taking photos of for the last few years.  I have so enjoyed seeing the family grow and these 'clients' have become friends I get to see every year.  Lady was diagnosed with cancer and the news for the family was obviously heartbreaking.  Andrea, Trevor and little Kaitlin have so much love for their four legged baby and is keeping her comfortable and in very good spirits.

Kaitlin was in her own little world when I popped up to surprise her.  She is talking so much now and was happy to lead us to the water with Lady's leash in her hand.  It was a beautiful morning in Fish Creek Park and I wanted to capture the pure love this family has for their dog.  We kept the posed photos to a minimum and instead walked along the water, splashing and playing.

Thank you Andrea for allowing me the glimpse of your very happy family.  It was a very special photo session and I was honored to be the one documenting this time.

I will be sending my love and prayers for Lady and her loving family.  I hope you can cherish these photographs for years to come.