Dog Rescue

Why Rescue Dogs Deserve the Spotlight (And How BarkHop Studio Helps Tell Their Stories)

There’s something special about a rescue dog. It’s in the way they look at you, as if they know—deep in their soul—that you chose them. That out of all the dogs in the world, you saw them and said, That one. That’s my dog. And in return, they love you with a fierceness that’s impossible to put into words. That’s the kind of love that deserves to be celebrated.

If you’ve been around me for five minutes, you already know: I'm pretty passionate about rescue. I can’t imagine my life without the dogs who’ve found their way into my home, my heart, and, let’s be honest, my camera lens. It began with fostering shortly after losing my dog in 2020 and grew into a photographing dogs to help get them adopted.  It fills my cup and when I'm capturing photos of a dog in the shelter, I'm in my happiest place because I know those photos will help them be seen by potential adopters. 

My involvement in the rescue world compared to many is just scratching the surface, but what I do share with those people is an awareness that so many people are yet to experience.  I have seen a man pull up to the shelter in a hurry to surrender his dog because of travel plans that didn't include his dog.  I have seen dogs so neglected that their nails curl into their paw pads. But here's the best part, I've also seen the updates after they are welcomed into a home with people who love them the way they deserve to be loved. And it is pure magic.

Photography With a Purpose

BarkHop Studio isn’t just about snapping pretty pictures of dogs (although, I'll be honest, I have yet to meet a dog who isn't photogenic). It’s about telling their story. Whether your pup came from a rescue, a foster situation, or even an “accidental” adoption (we’ve all been there—you were just going to look, right?), the story of how they joined your family is worth remembering.

And since we're being honest, lots of times, rescue dogs tend to be a little extra. They join our families with a history we oftentimes know nothing about.  Sometimes those past lives shape them, sometimes their future shapes them.  But with every one, their eyes hold entire lifetimes, and their personalities? They're unforgettable. That’s why I love photographing them—because their joy, their quirks, and their stories deserve to be seen, heard, and celebrated.

Turning Memories Into Art

Every dog parent knows the feeling—you glance over at your pup, and for a moment, everything else fades. The way they tilt their head, the happy wiggle when you walk through the door, the soft sigh as they settle beside you, the slightly nervous pace that you've come to love because it's just so [insert name here]. Those little things may stick with your pup for their whole life, but maybe, over time, those little habits from their past will fade as they settle into their future. 

At BarkHop Studio, I turn those moments into art that lasts a lifetime. Whether it’s a bold canvas that captures your dog’s unique spirit or a handcrafted album that tells their story from rescue to forever home, every piece is created with love, intention, and a deep appreciation for the connection (ha, or tolerance...if you know, you know) you share.

Giving Back to the Dogs Who Need Us Most

I love my involvement in the rescue world. I love being able to volunteer my time and talent to help adoptable dogs have photos taken that catch people's attention.  And I love to be able to reach beyond that. partnering with rescues and shelters to help raise funds, spread awareness, foster and get more dogs into their furever homes.

One of my favorite ways to do this is by sponsoring a photo calendar contest.  It's not just a fun excuse to welcome adorable dogs into my studio and to capture adorable photos of the winners of the contest for the calendar (though, let’s be honest, that’s a perk). It’s a way to make a real difference. The funds raised go directly to helping dogs in need—covering medical bills, food, and whatever it takes to get them healthy and ready to join their furever family. And for the dogs who’ve already found their people? It’s a chance to celebrate their journey and showcase the incredible joy that comes with adopting a rescue.

Why Professional Photos Matter

I'm a dog mom, so I'm going to speak from experience...I bet your phone is already packed with pictures of your dog. But here’s the thing: professional photography isn’t just about taking a photo. It’s about capturing your dog’s personality in a way that’s timeless.

It’s about seeing them as they are right now, at this exact moment in their life, and turning that into something tangible. Something you can hold and look at every day—even years down the road, when your dog has become a memory instead of a presence beside you.  It's about sharing a unique experience with your dog, a day at the studio and a memory you'll have forever. Because at the end of the day, that’s what we all want: to hold onto them for as long as possible. We want them to be with us for our whole lives and photographs and artwork do that.  

Let’s Celebrate Your Rescue’s Story

If your dog came from a rescue, you already know how special they are. You know the gratitude in their eyes, the love in their heart, and the way they make every day better just by being there. Let’s tell that story together. Let’s celebrate them in a way that lasts forever.

I'm here to make sure your rescue dog's story doesn’t just live in your heart—it lives on your walls, in your home, and anywhere else that reminds you that they walk beside you and always will.