This is, by far, my least favorite part of the job. I get to work with happy, energetic, wonderful people and dogs every day, and I’m so lucky to do it. But on days like today, there’s a different story.

I can’t say how sad I am to report that we’ve lost another member of the family. I photographed Barb, Lucy and Beau a few months ago in beautiful Panama City Beach, Florida. Lucy and Beau are two adorable miniature poodles, and Barb is their fabulous mom, who actually lives in South Bend, Indiana most of the year – a place that’s actually very near to my heart. But Barb informed me just a few days ago that she lost poor, sweet Lucy to a tragic car accident. This sweet girl was so full of life and spunk that honestly, it’s hard to believe. I’ve always had trouble grasping the idea of death, and its finality and tragedy, and nothing could have been further from that idea than cute, well-behaved little Lucy. And even worse, Lucy isn’t Barb’s first dog that has crossed the rainbow bridge all too soon. Of course no one deserves to lose two pets so suddenly, but Barb deserves it least of all. My heart breaks for you, Barb and Beau (Lucy’s brother). I hope you have strength in this difficult time, and as always, please know that I’m here for you. Here are a few of my favorite images of your beautiful girl.

You will be missed, Lucy.

~   Dog Photography in Panama City Beach, FL by Allison Shamrell   ~