I wanted to come on today and tap in on a subject that pulls on my heart strings a little. I recently was tagged in a post for someone that was looking for of a Pet Photographer to photograph their cat that has been given a certain diagnosis which means their time was limited. What do we do when we get that heart breaking diagnosis?

It's not an easy journey to navigate. I have experienced it myself many times from the time I was a kid until now. My most recent being Mr. Murphy. We lost him 2 years ago to kidney disease and he fought tooth and nail through it all. I got Murphy when I was 26 years old and he saw me through so many rocky roads he probably could have written a book. He also saw me through some pretty great times too. The one constant in my life through all the ups and downs was him. He was always there giving me the support and love that I needed. Do I still well up with tears when I think of him, yes. Do I smile when I see his portrait on the wall, yes. But most of all I remember every little moment that he was by my side.

I think we all go through the same emotions when faced with the reality that their time is limited. We ask ourselves many questions. What could I have done differently? I didn't do enough! I can't survive without them! How can I am make this better? My heart is breaking! Am I doing right by him?

That last question is the toughest. Am I doing right by him? The answer is yes, a million times yes. Even if you feel you are not. You are doing the best that you can with the information provided and the resources available to you. Remember this when that question creeps up. Give them love, give them support, thank them over and over again for everything they have given you. Most importantly, create some memories. 

These memories can be as simple as small experiences in your home. Throw a party with all their favourite people and pets. Give them a spa day that they would love. Prepare a favourite meal that they are not necessarily allowed to eat but it would give them joy.

Or you can go a bit further. I have a friend that spins pet fur into yarn and makes the most amazing items through crocheting the fur. You can find Michelle at https://www.fureverkeepsakes.net/

Preparing for their journey can also be a heart breaking experience. Did you know there are crematoriums for pets? You can actually go in and plan out every aspect of their cremation for your peace of mind. One place available to you is Pet Heaven Crematorium & Funeral Chapel https://petheavencalgary.com/

There are glass blowers in Okotoks that will put a small portion of their ashes into a memorial piece. They look amazing and I am wanting to do this for our last 2 pets we have lost. Okotoks Hot Glass Studio can be found here: http://www.okotokshotglass.com/

You can also plan a Celebration Portrait Session. These sessions take precedence and I will make every effort to fit you in as soon as possible. You have the options to bring them into the studio, a favourite outdoor location or the comforts of your own home. We make these session as comfortable as possibly for your sweet furbaby and capture the love that is shared.

Whatever it is you decide to do, make sure you continue to make those memories. Don't wait to do the things that will make both you and your pet happy. I hear so many times from people "if only I knew", "if only I did", "I wish I had". Don't hold on to regrets. Make the memories, cherish the time and celebrate them however you can as they are only here for a short period of time.

I leave you with a few Celebration Sessions that I have done. Wherever these sweet souls are, they are much loved and flying free. 

Much love, 

Lisa