Zico

Zico is a majestic black cat whose wonderful mom rescues all-black cats from shelters because she knows they are the most overlooked by potential adopters. He is only six years old and has been fighting an aggressive cancer for nearly nearly two years, but now it’s time to focus on filling his days with love, treats, and long naps in the sunshine.

Zico and his dog and cat sibling Torres and Cali (all rescues!) are seriously amazing. Zico and Cali are the first cats I’ve photographed who know commands – and actually respond to them! They can roll over, give high-fives, and stand up for treats. Not to be outdone, Torres is trained in German and was asked not to bark when I first walked in – and he didn’t make a peep!

All three have such distinct and endearing personalities. Cali is ridiculously lazy and spent pretty much the whole time lying on her side or on her back, while Torres is reserved and inquisitive. Zico was much more active before his illness, but he still loves to be outside and still enjoys one of his favorite activities – flossing! This was discovered one night when his mom was getting ready for bed and he hopped up on the sink and snatched the floss away from her. Now if you hold the string out for him, he’ll lean forward to nibble on it.

I’m so honored I was able to meet this handsome, loving boy and his family!

 

Sneaking in just a couple of Cali and Torres since Zico was the focus of the session:

Zico’s favorite spot is in a planter he’s made into his very own custom bed:

August 28, 2013 - 4:28 pm

Sarah Houck - Zico is a champion. Sadly, he got cancer from an immunization he had done prior to his mom adopting him. His loving mom (my sister) along with her husband have spent countless hours and resources attempting to treat Zico; and well, they are a true testament to loving your animal – no matter what. He is in a very caring home, he is fed some of the healthiest food, and he is truly loved by all who meet him. I am so proud to call his mom my sister – she has never given up on Zico. These photos are amazing! Thank you for posting these healing pictures for all of us to enjoy!

August 28, 2013 - 1:36 pm

Joni A Solis - Gorgeous kitty and gorgeous photos. It is so hard to lose loved ones. May these wonderful photos bring happy memories in sad times.

August 28, 2013 - 1:34 pm

Catherine Owen - These are WONDERFUL photographs! What a great eye you have! You’ve really captured Zico’s personality (and Cali and Torres’ too!).

Eli & Elvis

I photographed these handsome brothers when they were six months old and they were about 50 or 60 pounds then, so I expected they’d be slightly more filled-out but not too different. I was in a for a surprise! Eli and Elvis apparently had a lot more growing to do – they are both at least 100 pounds now – and now you can see a lot more Rottweiler in their features. They are three years old now, and have one of the most wonderful bonds I’ve ever seen. (They were abandoned together in a park when they were nine weeks old, but were lucky enough to find their way into one of the best homes ever!)

These two move like they’re one symbiotic unit moving in two bodies, if that makes any sense. They love to play together and groom each other. Eli is the more outgoing one who is obsessed with making sure every kong in the house is completely licked clean, and Elvis is known for splaying on his back with his paws in the air to elicit belly rubs. (Of course his brother saw what was going on and immediately copied him in an effort to bring the attention back on to himself!)

Elvis is on the left, Eli on the right:

Wrigley

Wrigley is a handsome Silky Terrier or Yorkie mix who was adopted from Atlanta Pet Rescue six years ago. He acts so youthful and exuberant, with his adorable puppy haircut and his obsession with toys, that it’s hard to believe he’s nine years old. He loves to give kisses, so throughout the session I’d get a random lick on the knee or the ankle. I had so much fun meeting this sweet boy who took to the camera so quickly, it seemed like he had been waiting all this time to reveal his true calling as a professional model! :p