Why I’m a pet photographer
The Short Life of Magnolia - A Senior Dog Adoption Story
Have you ever been touched by the love of a senior dog? When my husband and I first went to adopt a dog, we had our hearts set on a young pup. But then we met Magnolia, an 8-year-old Aussie Shepherd mixed senior dog who no one else wanted. We decided to take her home and give her the best years of her life. Unfortunately, it was only 1 month and 4 days until we lost her to cancer.
The First Day We Met Her
When we first met Magnolia at the shelter, she seemed lifeless and scared. She didn't seem to have much left in her. Despite this, something told us she needed a friend to rescue her more than any of the other dogs there did that day. We paid the adoption fee and filled our home with all sorts of cozy items for her – blankets, a bed, treats, and toys – so she could feel comfortable and right at home with her new family.
With some patience, love, and a lot of cuddles, Magnolia slowly began to open up and brought us a lot of joy. She started to trust us more and show us her true personality. We were in awe at how quickly she changed from a timid dog into an energetic pup that loved belly rubs and just hanging out on the couch watching tv.
The Final Days With Her
A couple of days into her new home we realized something was wrong with Magnolia - we began to worry. She started to become lethargic and began losing her appetite. We took her to the vet, where we found out that she had cancer. The diagnosis was a shock because we had just brought this beautiful girl into our home and because our pet insurance refused to cover any treatment we decided to make the most of her remaining days by loving her the best she ever had been and allowing her to enjoy all the foods you may not typically feed your dog - her favorite was ice cream and cupcakes.
As Magnolia's life drew to a close, we watched her graceful spirit slowly fade away. Basic needs such as walking, eating, and relieving herself became difficult. We knew the time had come for our beloved's journey to cross the rainbow bridge - but that didn't make it any easier for us as we said goodbye.
When the vet arrived at our home to lay her down to sleep we placed her on her favorite blanket, played 'The Girl' by City and Colour, whispered how much we loved her into her ears, cuddled her tightly, and held onto her paws until her final breath.
She was an incredible senior dog who, despite her age, had boundless energy and joy that filled our home with happiness. Though we knew she wasn't going to be so lucky as to have us for many years, the love that Magnolia gave us was more than we could have ever asked for a pet. We cherish every moment we spent with her, and will forever be touched by the love of this amazing senior dog who was a part of our little family.
To this day that has been the hardest thing I have ever done and I still cry anytime I talk about Magnolia or listen to 'The Girl' by City and Colour.
My Why
As heartbreaking as it was to lose our beloved Magnolia, I was even more upset by the fact that we had so few memories of her captured in photos - it almost felt like a betrayal that there were only a few pictures of our time together. We had been so caught up in taking care of and loving on her that we simply didn't have much time, nor did we think much about photographing her.
As a professional pet photographer, I knew then this had to change; every pet owner deserves to cherish great photos to be held onto forever. Since then, I've been dedicated to creating beautiful portraits for other family's best friends so they can keep their spirits alive for years to come.
Though her time was short with us I'm so incredibly grateful to have known her and that she was able to spend her final days in a warm, loving home instead of a shelter.
Senior Pets
Adopting an older animal is not only incredibly rewarding but also incredibly fulfilling knowing that you gave them the best days of life in their final moments here on earth. When people think about adopting they often think of getting puppies or kittens but never forget about the older animals who need just as much love too.
Magnolia reminds me that nothing lasts forever but photographs do and only become more valuable as time goes on. Cherish your loved ones while they’re still here because tomorrow isn’t promised — no matter if it’s human or furry friends. Take a lot of photos or hire a pet photographer to capture those memories for you.
Now, my Husband and I only rescue animals from the streets, and seniors in the shelter and take lots of family photos together.
If the thought of booking a pet photography session interests you I invite you to connect with me to learn more about how I can create beautiful photos of your furry family members.
Vincent Sandoval | Palm Springs Pet Photographer
Capturing all that is quirky, innocent, sincere & truly remarkable about a pet’s life.