Duffy the Golden Retriever. Celebration of Life. Toledo Pet Photographer.

It is not everyday that I get to photograph a teddy bear. Ok, ok, Duffy is actually a very fluffy golden retriever. Duffy’s family received some bad news that she has cancer. As a senior dog, treatment options are uncomfortable and can take more than they give. It was decided that she will be pampered, spoiled and made comfortable for as many days as she has left with her family.

Duffy’s mom, Andria, has had her since she was 16 and they share a very special bond. Andria was gifted this life celebration session by her sister as a Christmas surprise. (Tons of points to Kate for being an amazing sister). Andi noticed that Duffy had been given a bath and she knew something was up! Katelyn, Codi (Kate’s Maltese who is Duffy’s best friend), Andria and Duffy all met me at Sidecut Metropark for their photos.

Duffy thoroughly enjoyed herself and did not listen to direction very well. Guess what? We still got some amazing pictures! I let her do her own thing and wander a little so she could smell and explore. I just followed her lead rather than trying to fit her into our own ideas. Duffy did so well with the interaction photos with her mama. Andria and Duffy are obviously inseparable.

Andi and Kate video chatted with each other while they saw the photos for the first time. Andria said, “Let me take off my makeup and grab a glass of wine”. They messaged me every reaction as they viewed the images. Lot of tears and many heart emojis! It was the most precious thing. Animals can truly bring people together in so many ways.

Learn more about Duffy from Andi:

Where did you get her? I was sitting at Schlotzckys and picked a random ad out of the paper selling Goldens! She was hiding under a lawn chair and I saw her on my way out!
How old was she when you brought her home? She was 2 months!
How did you choose her name? I’m a golfer! And a funny bad shot is called a duff. She would ride in the golf cart so Duffy it was!
How old is she now? She will be 13 on May 28.
What 3 words would you use to describe her personality? Loving, therapeutic, hilarious.
What is her favorite toy? Her favorite toy is any toy she make “snow”. She loves pulling stuffing out all around the house making it look like it snowed inside. It’s one of her proud things to do.
What do you enjoy doing together? We love snacking on different foods! She loves ice cream, going on walks, and car rides!
A favorite memory of her or a hard time that she helped you get through? She’s literally helped me through more hard times than my therapist. Lol. Recently, Kate and I lost our grandma and cousin on the same day... there’s not really anything you can say to people when they ask about it at first and you don’t really feel like talking and Duffy was there for me to just sit, hug, and cry until I was able to get up.
Why is it meaningful to have professional images of her? Professional pictures were a total surprise to me! It was an amazing gift from my sister and I never knew how important they were until we met you! She has cancer and has a short time left but so much love and happiness to give. You captured all of her personality and I’ll be able memorialize her and continue to have a part of her with me after she’s gone.
What stood out to you about your experience with Rebecca? Rebecca was immediately comforting, caring, and genuine it was like my sister and I had a new friend. She was amazing with Duffy and has more patience than anyone I’ve ever met I think. She gives such an amazing gift because she loves seeing joy in others and that’s a character trait I wish we all had more of! Duffy and I will always be so thankful!