Growing up with pets has taught me so much.
The longest time frame our house was without a single dog was the few months between losing Max & Misty & bringing home our Baby Beau.
Our pets are family members, & they show us unconditional love. As the years have gone by, it has been a joy to grow up alongside several loving & kind-hearted dogs.
After Max & Misty passed & Beau came along, it was a delight to find myself plucking little Golden Beau Beau’s hair off my black jeans. Goldens are known for shedding, but they are worth their hairy situation.
The two darling dog breeds I’m very used to are Golden Retrievers & Miniature Schnauzers, & those two types of dogs will always hold a special place in my heart.
So, what have I learned growing up with pets?
Appreciation for Animals
I wouldn’t hold the same adoration for animals if I hadn’t grown up with them. It’s so sweet to see how each furry family member has their own personality. All of their little quirks are what make them unique, & I strive to portray individual personality & heart in their portraits.
What Unconditional Love Looks Like
My furry family members have shown me what unconditional love looks like. Their loyalty & love for us is but a small sample of how much Christ loves us.
Growing Older & Wiser Together
Spending a lifetime with dogs has taught me that each of our pets are with us only a short number of years, but they are always there every step of the way; a part of daily life. They quickly memorize routines & what you like & don’t like. They are there to comfort you when you have a difficult day. They are there to get excited with you when you’re excited. My dogs have been with me through the good days & the bad days. One of the realizations I had was that Spencer & Shelbie (one of our Goldens & one of our Miniature Schnauzers) were meant to be with me when I was super little, but Max & Misty were meant to be a part of my life during my childhood (I still consider myself a kid), & Beau will now be with me as I journey through my young adult years. We may have plenty of pets throughout our lifetime, but each one can teach us something meaningful, & each one is meant to be with us.
How to Paint & Appreciate Pet Portraits
I wouldn’t be passionate in the same way for painting pet portraits if I hadn’t grown up with pets. One of my main goals when finishing up your pet portrait is to capture their personality in their painting. Each of our pets has a sweet soul that is specially theirs. From the beginning to the end of painting a pet portrait, I take in your pet’s body language, coloring, & the eyes, which provide a glimpse into their heart.
They say a picture can say a thousand words, so I believe a portrait can hold a thousand memories with your pet.
Photos by Jenny Shipley
- Marissa
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