Looking For Love: How An Adoptable Pittie Mix Became A Cover Model
Feb 05, 2025
A phone call to Mary Anne and Joe was all it took.
This incredible couple volunteers at the Humane Society at Lakewood Ranch and has become Bessie’s biggest supporters and closest companions. I knew they could help.
Every single weekend, they take Bessie out of the shelter for special adventures at local parks and recreational areas. She soaks in the sights, wags her tail at new friends, and embraces every outing with boundless enthusiasm—especially her visits to Starbucks for pup cups.
They also bring Bessie to their home, where she gets to relax on their screened-in lanai, dip her toes in the pool, and enjoy a taste of home life. On their walks, they introduce her to children in their neighborhood, where she is showered with hugs, kisses, and socialization.
Bringing Bessie’s Story to Life
Bessie LOVES kids. So, I knew I wanted to showcase her gentle, affectionate side by capturing her playing with a child. That’s where Mary Anne and Joe really came into play.
Their granddaughter, Addison, recently moved to Lakewood Ranch, and from the very first meeting, she and Bessie were inseparable. I had seen the heartwarming photos in the volunteer Facebook group, and I knew Addison would be the perfect little friend to help tell Bessie’s story.
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We chose Nathan Benderson Park as our location, with its vibrant scenery—the colorful playground, serene waters, wooded trails, and charming bridges all provided the perfect backdrop.
When photoshoot day arrived, my heart swelled as I watched Mary Anne, Joe, and Addison walk Bessie toward our meeting spot. Bessie’s excitement was palpable—her wagging tail, bright eyes, and joyful spirit made it clear she was ready for this adventure.
Capturing the Love and Connection
After our excited greetings (and plenty of Bessie kisses!), we set off to find just the right spot—one that would highlight Bessie’s sleek coat, warm amber eyes, and her playful nature.
We moved through the park, capturing moments on the bridge, in the wooded trails, and finally in an open field bathed in golden sunset light. Then, we took a play break—and that’s when the magic happened.
Watching Bessie and her four-year-old friend giggle, chase, and cuddle melted my heart. These candid moments of pure joy are what I live to capture as a professional pet and family photographer. They weren’t just playing; they were bonding. And in those moments, Bessie wasn’t a “homeless animal”—she was someone’s heart and best friend.
A Bond That Melts the Heart
While Bessie and Addison stole the show, it was the bond between Bessie and Joe that truly tugged at my heart.
Throughout the session, no matter how much fun Bessie was having, she always found her way back to Joe, jumping up to give him big, slobbery kisses.
Their connection is undeniable—it speaks to just how loyal and affectionate Bessie is.
(Why don’t they adopt Bessie, you ask? (Read the full story.)
Bessie, a Shelter Dog with a Heart of Gold, Deserves a Forever Home
As a professional pet photographer, I have the unique opportunity to capture shelter pets in a way that truly connects them with potential adopters. A single photo can make all the difference—revealing not just their beauty, but their spirit, warmth, and personality. When you see them in the right light—their eyes full of hope, their personalities shining through—you don’t just see a shelter pet. You see a best friend waiting to be found.
This pet photo shoot wasn’t just about a stunning cover photo for Suncoast Pet Magazine—it was about giving Bessie a chance to finally be seen for who she truly is.
Bessie is loyal, playful, gentle, and full of love—everything a family could ever want in a dog.
When photoshoot day arrived, my heart swelled as I watched Mary Anne, Joe, and Addison walk Bessie toward our meeting spot. Bessie’s excitement was palpable—her wagging tail, bright eyes, and joyful spirit made it clear she was ready for this adventure.
Capturing the Love and Connection
After our excited greetings (and plenty of Bessie kisses!), we set off to find just the right spot—one that would highlight Bessie’s sleek coat, warm amber eyes, and her playful nature.
We moved through the park, capturing moments on the bridge, in the wooded trails, and finally in an open field bathed in golden sunset light. Then, we took a play break—and that’s when the magic happened.
Watching Bessie and her four-year-old friend giggle, chase, and cuddle melted my heart. These candid moments of pure joy are what I live to capture as a professional pet and family photographer. They weren’t just playing; they were bonding. And in those moments, Bessie wasn’t a “homeless animal”—she was someone’s heart and best friend.
A Bond That Melts the Heart
While Bessie and Addison stole the show, it was the bond between Bessie and Joe that truly tugged at my heart.
Throughout the session, no matter how much fun Bessie was having, she always found her way back to Joe, jumping up to give him big, slobbery kisses.
Their connection is undeniable—it speaks to just how loyal and affectionate Bessie is.
(Why don’t they adopt Bessie, you ask? (Read the full story.)
Bessie, a Shelter Dog with a Heart of Gold, Deserves a Forever Home
As a professional pet photographer, I have the unique opportunity to capture shelter pets in a way that truly connects them with potential adopters. A single photo can make all the difference—revealing not just their beauty, but their spirit, warmth, and personality. When you see them in the right light—their eyes full of hope, their personalities shining through—you don’t just see a shelter pet. You see a best friend waiting to be found.
This pet photo shoot wasn’t just about a stunning cover photo for Suncoast Pet Magazine—it was about giving Bessie a chance to finally be seen for who she truly is.
Bessie is loyal, playful, gentle, and full of love—everything a family could ever want in a dog.
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