Nestled in the forest outside Alger, WA, we spent a cloudy afternoon with Elise + Tony and their beloved pets—Muskrat, Kipo, and Professor—for a session that was both deeply emotional and quietly beautiful. The reason for this visit was heartbreaking: Muskrat, their sweet 2.5-year-old pup, had recently been diagnosed with terminal cancer. Elise + Tony asked us to come into their home and help them commemorate Muskrat’s short but love-filled life. As lifelong animal lovers, we were incredibly honored to share this space with them during such a tender moment.


We first met Elise + Tony at a queer styled shoot at A&K Alder Farm just last month, and were so moved that they reached out for this session. Their home, warm and tucked into the woods, felt like a sanctuary—one that’s clearly full of love and care. Muskrat was calm and slow, the illness taking a visible toll, but his spirit was still so present. He gave so many kisses, his fluffy face full of gentle sweetness. Once full of energy, he now leaned into stillness, and we followed his lead throughout the session.


We stayed close to home—literally and emotionally—starting with portraits on the deck before moving inside to the cozy couch. Every moment was approached with care for Muskrat’s comfort, allowing time and space for Elise + Tony to simply be with him. Kipo, their other pup, joined in with gentle affection, and Professor the kitty made an appearance too, rounding out this beautiful little family. There was laughter through teary eyes, quiet reflection, and a deep, wordless connection between them all that felt sacred to witness.


As pet parents ourselves, we know how hard it is to say goodbye to a companion—especially one so young. This kind of loss carries a particular ache, and we’re so grateful Elise + Tony trusted us to help honor Muskrat’s legacy with love and grace. Visibility and care in all forms of love—whether romantic, familial, or the bond we share with our pets—matters deeply to us, and this session was a powerful reminder of why we do what we do.


Muskrat, you are so very loved.

A happy husky dog getting pets and belly rubs while lying on a textured gray rug.
A cozy family photo on a grey couch with three pets including a ginger cat and two dogs, one being a husky.
Close-up black and white portrait of a husky dog with intense eyes resting on a grey surface.
A happy Alaskan Husky dog with black and tan fur smiling at the camera showing its friendly expression.
A husky mix dog with striking blue and brown eyes lays its head down on a hardwood floor in a close-up portrait.
A fluffy black and white dog rests on a brown leather couch next to someone wearing a pink tank top.
A playful Husky dog being pet on the nose while lying down with a cheerful expression on its face.
A relaxed indoor portrait with pets including an orange cat, husky, and tan dog gathered on a comfortable couch.
Two dogs and their owners relaxing together on a brown couch in a sunlit living room with gray walls.
A large Husky mix dog sits on turquoise outdoor patio furniture with two people on a wooden deck.
A happy Husky mix dog with black and tan fur smiles at the camera while standing on a wooden deck.
A person lounges on a gray couch while petting a large black and white husky dog in a cozy living room setting.

Big Love, Even in Goodbye

When the time comes to say goodbye, love remains—quiet, soft, and powerful. These moments deserve to be remembered with care.