If you grew up with pets, then you probably know what it’s like to lose one. Lacey and Stephen, a sweet, newly engaged couple, had just received the unfortunate news that their sweet old pup Buddy has a terminal illness. They were also just gearing up to move out of the Roanoke apartment complex they’d inhabited for over six years. When Lacey contacted me to do a sort of “family” photoshoot with her, Stephen, and their pets to capture them together at home while Buddy is still alive, I jumped at the opportunity.
As I got to know these proud pet parents during our short time together, I learned the delightful story of how Buddy became a part of the family. Apparently he wandered up Stephen’s parent’s driveway in their rural neighborhood many years ago looking lost and forlorn. They simply got him a checkup at the vet, brought him back home, and called him theirs. The vet estimated he was already four or five years old.
Now, Buddy lives with Stephen and Lacey along with scrappy little Bean, a fiery little black dog who’s got more attitude than you would think could fit in his tiny body, and their sweet cat Dottie. Though Buddy is sick, he still had lots of interest in all of our comings and goings. He just went at his own, measured pace. We captured some moments inside their apartment before moving outdoors to explore the extensive grounds in their apartment complex. During our stop at the dog park, Bean made sure to let with the local mailman know who’s boss, which was very entertaining to watch.
We spent the last bit of our time together down by a little creek in their area. Bean loved exploring the water, walking right in up to his belly to sniff and take a drink. Buddy’s eyes, so large and glassy, reflected the scene around us as he padded along with his nose to the ground.
When I asked Lacey and Stephen what they will miss most about Roanoke, they both agreed that they were sad to leave their apartment complex and their nearby friends. They’ll especially miss their favorite restaurant, Jack Brown’s. We all agreed they do make the best burgers around. We couldn’t resist taking some final photos of just Lacey and Stephen in their special Jack Brown shirts!