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Why Pet Portraits Hold a Special Spot in My Heart

  • Writer: Hailee Shields
    Hailee Shields
  • Jan 24
  • 0 min read

If there’s one thing I know for certain, it’s that pets are pure magic. They wag, they purr, they snuggle—and somehow, they make our hearts feel full to the brim with love. My passion for pets runs deep, and it’s a journey that has taken me from working as a Fear Free certified vet assistant to now pouring my heart into creating custom pet portraits. Back in my vet assistant days, I learned so much about caring for animals with compassion and a touch of magic that eased their fears. Fear Free certification taught me how to make even the most nervous of tails wag again. But as much as I loved working with fur babies every day, my body had other plans. With fibromyalgia, IBS, and a few other health hurdles thrown into the mix, staying in that field became too difficult. I had to pivot, but my heart never stopped beating for those sweet paws, whiskers, and floofy tails.

That’s where my art came to the rescue—like a loyal Labrador with a tennis ball! I started channeling all the love I have for pets into creating unique, whimsical portraits that celebrate just how special they are. Whether it’s a watercolor of a mischievous tabby or a digital painting of a dignified golden retriever, I adore capturing their personalities and quirks. Each little snoot and floppy ear tells a story, and I’m honored to help bring that story to life. What makes pet portraits so magical to me is the connection. Every pet I paint reminds me of the animals I’ve cared for and loved—and of the incredible bond they share with their humans. It’s more than just art; it’s a celebration of unconditional love, loyalty, and joy. Plus, let’s be honest: painting fluffy faces is just plain fun! Offering pet portraits allows me to keep a paw in the pet world while also honoring my health needs. I get to work from a cozy space with a cup of tea and my favorite brushes, all while creating something that brings happiness to others. Seeing the smiles (and sometimes tears!) when someone sees their beloved pet immortalized in a portrait is the absolute best feeling.

So if you’ve got a furry friend who deserves to be celebrated, let me turn them into a masterpiece! Whether they’re your snuggle buddy, adventure partner, or zoomies champion, I’d love to capture their unique spark. Because pets aren’t just pets—they’re family, and they deserve to be celebrated in all their tail-wagging, purring, chirping glory. Let’s create some magic together!

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