Haylie and her Humans

Haylie the Golden Retriever

Today I will be thankful for all the pawprints on my floor, the slobbery kisses on my face, and the hair on my clothes. For there will come a day when there is far too much room in our bed and these days will be PROFOUNDLY missed.

Golden Retriever

There she was… running to the beat of her own drum. Haylie was in charge this session and she couldn’t have been more amazing. While her tail wagging, she went about sniffing, and “marking her territory” the way that dogs do. You can sense the peacefulness that she had about her. I think we could all learn a thing or two from our furry family members. No anxiety, no worries… just living in the moment and accepting all the love that surrounds them. Soaking up every kiss, tickle and loving pats on the head. Living life to the fullest.

This session was a little bit different for me. I don’t tend to photograph family sessions, but this one was special. It was only a short while ago that Sonya and her kiddos received some heart-wrenching news about their K9 family member Haylie. Poor Haylie, the sweet Golden Retriever was diagnosed with Cancer, and although she is taking an oral Chemotherapy medication… she only has a few short months left on this earth. So Sonya chose to celebrate Haylie’s life with a portrait session. I can’t think of a better way to preserve your memories. I was so totally honored to be able to do this for them.

Being a dog lover myself, I completely understand the emotional bond that we develop with our fur babies. They are a true member of the family. Just like our human kiddos, they may get on our nerves at times… but they are still loved unconditionally. Likewise… they love us unconditionally too. So I dedicate this post to Haylie.

Let’s learn a little bit more about Haylie, this sweet Golden Retriever.

Golden Retriever

Haylie’s Birthday?
June 30, 2005
What is your favorite memory of Haylie?
All her hiking trips around Goose Pond….her favorite place in the world
Does Haylie have any “quirks” that you find funny (or even annoying haha)
Barking if anyone walked or rode a bike by the house
Does Haylie have a game of choice?
Playing with “duckie” (all her stuffed animals we called “dukie” and playing with her buddy Digsby (my parent’s dog) when he visited. Haylie jumps up and down at him…it’s so cute
Haylie’s Treat of Choice?
Pig ears and bully sticks
Anything else you would like to share about Haylie?
She has given us (Brendan, Brenna and me) 12 amazing years! She has been such a perfect dog. She will always hold a special place in all our hearts
Has Haylie ever helped you through some tough times?
Yes! Brendan going off to college at UNH 4 years ago was extremely difficult for me and having Haylie here to hike with and spend the evenings with her and Brenna made it manageable. Then Brenna heading off to UNH this past fall and again Haylie was there every step of the way for my crying episodes. Love her so much.