![]() |
Harley |

The vet believes cancer was the villain that took Harley’s life. Without exploratory surgery, he could not be sure, and there was no way Harley could undergo the stresses of that kind of procedure. Confirming the diagnosis would not have changed the inevitable; And so, the decision had to be made to say good-bye.
I feel fortunate to have spent his last hour on earth by his side. He seemed happy to have us there, even though I decided to bring the camera. He never was very cooperative at posing for me. Conveniently, the vet had a jar of treats which we offered him in abundance before the final good-bye. He perked up for us as we fed him (believing he was in heaven long before his journey began) and I was able to make some very nice portraits of him to keep forever as a memory.
Upon returning home, I felt the need to look at the many photos we made of Harley through his life. The photos were comforting and looking at them helped me to begin the healing process. Sure, I will continue to tear up every time I see the dog food ads featuring a yellow lab puppy; and I know it will take some time to remember to divide table scraps into halves instead of thirds. Since last week, I have caught myself calling for him after the other two returned inside the house. Old habits die hard...


In this age of cell phones with cameras, I am lucky to have so many more casual photo (and video!) memories of Harley than I would have had relying on my SLR and point and shoot cameras alone.
So don’t be afraid to capture those everyday moments of those you love, the images will become cherished treasures in the future.

![]() |
Harley June 23 1996-April 16, 2011 |