I think rescue dogs know when they’ve been rescued. They know when their life changes; when they have a loving, happy home and they’re a treasured member of the family, when beforehand there was more pain & suffering than love & stability. I think they know. And Lola the standard poodle definitely knows just how lucky she is.

This Rancho Santa Fe pet photography session features the gorgeous Lola, an all-black standard poodle, who was rescued from a very poor beginning in life. She’s still less than a year old, but for her first 4 months or so, she was brought up in absolutely deplorable conditions. She didn’t even know how to drink water out of a bowl, because she wasn’t given bowls of water as a puppy, much less toys or treats, or any basic facets of a puppy’s life. Can you imagine?! Who could do that to such a sweet creature – any animal, really – I have no idea, but thankfully Lola’s mom Debra came along, and she rescued her to live a fabulous life! Lola & Debra live in a beautiful, safe neighborhood in Rancho Santa Fe, and they simply couldn’t be happier together. They’re best friends! And Lola absolutely adores her mom: she follows her around as close as a shadow, always ready to jump up to face-height to say hello up close, haha! In fact, Lola’s life is so filled with love these days, that as our photo session wrapped up and I was giving Debra a hug goodbye, Lola jumped up to join the hug too!! It was absolutely hysterical – she just doesn’t want to be excluded from any bit of love & affection she sees around her (especially a hug with her mom)! Haha! What an adorable, goofy pup. :)

This is Lola. Such a sweetheart.

She absolutely loves running around her backyard! Action photos turned out to be a significant part of our session, thanks to her boundless energy!

Sigh. This dog is gorgeous.

Debra, I had a great time with you & Lola during our photo session! I’m excited to show you the rest of our photos very soon!