CANBERRA PET PHOTOGRAPHY

Australia’s capital city, Canberra, is surrounded by forest, farmlands and the Australian Alps. They have a unique blend of urban culture (with an abundance of shops, museums and galleries) and Aussie nature. This blend has earned the city its nickname, the ‘Bush Capital’. The city really shines during Autumn, when the changing leaves paint Canberra in hues of red and gold.

In 2023, Ina Jalil joined professional photographers around the globe to make a difference for pets in need with 'Tails of the World'. This unique collaborative project celebrates dogs with an annual coffee table book and our latest volume has raised over $65,000 for animal rescue!

Ina raised US$670 for Canberra Pet Rescue with ten pet photoshoots around Canberra. From cultural landmarks such as the National Museum of Australia and the James Turrell Skyspace, to parks including the Commonwealth Park and the English Garden. The National Rock Garden is one of Ina's hidden location gems (pun intended). Located in the heart of the city, the Rock Garden shows off the minerals and geological landscapes that have played a role in Australia's history.
Another must-visit location is the Lake Burley Griffin, a manmade lake also located in the centre of Canberra. It divides the "North Side" and "South Side" of the city and the International Flag Display represents the 108 Missions with a diplomatic presence in Canberra.
Finally, just outside the city is Uriarra Crossing. A Scenic river swimming area for both humans and dogs, the Murrumbidgee River laps at the shore of the dedicated off-leash dog beach.

Molly and Lexi

Molly (aka Molly Polly) and Lexi, the endearing Silky Terriers, are vital companions to Hannah and Olivia, both of whom have Type 1 diabetes. They are service dogs, trained to alert for low and high blood sugars, ketones (infections), arrythmias, etc. Molly Polly, initially welcomed as a playful puppy, displayed a unique ability to detect diabetes-related complications, a trait that guided her training with the Service Dog Academy, and made her the first assistance dog in school in the Australian Capital Territory. Lexi, recruited as Molly's understudy, exhibited an equal talent for alerting, which despite an unfortunate accident and subsequent recovery, led her to match Molly's remarkable skills in detecting a wide array of medical conditions. These two life-saving companions highlight the deep, profound connection and intuitive understanding between canines and their humans, making them a central part of their family's life.

Zoe and Ziggy

Zoe is a standard poodle and was adopted from the (Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) RSPCA and is a social butterfly. Her mum owns 2 dog grooming salons and Zoe is in her element greeting customers at the shop or parading herself at events like Million Paws Walk. Ziggy is a long haired chihuahua and was also adopted. She had a questionable start to life until she was adopted by her previous owner. She has settled well into her new pack. A typical chihuahua, she is small of stature but has a huge personality.

Kyro

Kyro is a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever, also known as a Toller for short. He is your typical retriever who loves to play fetch and to go swimming. Despite being a duck tolling retriever his absolute favourite toys to play with are his bunnies. He’s the type of dog that’s willing to give everything and anything a go (especially when food is involved) and loves every person and dog he meets! Exuding warmth and friendliness, he cherishes the company of every person and fellow dog he encounters. His endearing goofiness is a constant source of joy, particularly when he pulls off his trademark "derp" face. More than just a pet, Kyro serves as a delightful reason for his human to embrace each new day with enthusiasm. He's a cherished best friend to his human, and his presence adds immense value and joy to those around him.

Yuki

Yuki, an Orange Roan Cocker Spaniel, is the embodiment of her name's meaning - happiness. She is always beaming, wagging her tail, and eagerly welcoming new friends with open paws. She's a big snuggler and can usually be found propping herself up on pillows just like her humans. Her favourite foods is carrots and she's loved a smelly goats horn but she'll pretty much eat anything, including things she shouldn't! She still carries around her favourite first teddy after every meal time. She love toys that squeak especially when mum is on the phone! Yuki's favourite place is the Bom Funk Dance Studio that her mum owns, a place filled with dancers ready to shower her with cuddles. She expresses her love for people through a unique, exciting whimper-talk, which makes anyone she greets feel incredibly special. This expressive display of affection occurs regardless of how short the separation duration might have been. Yuki's amiable and close-knit relationship with humans extends from her family ties, as her sister is with her human's parents in Townsville. Her human family, who have a history of raising golden Cocker Spaniels, specifically chose her for her golden hues and the potential of freckled nose like her sister. It was indeed love at first sight when Yuki arrived, and she continues to bring joy and love to her family every day.

Obi

Obi lives life in the simplest of ways, taking great pleasure in long walks at the park, and oddly enough, the scent of cat poop. He also exhibits an uncanny love for chewing up multiple pairs of brand-new reading glasses. In his downtime, Obi loves lying on the cool tiles of the hallway or tearing into a tissue box upstairs, demonstrating his knack for creating chaos. Obi’s favourite activity is “the car” shortly followed by barking at the mailman.As far as treats go, Obi would rather eat a stick than go anywhere near your $47 treats from Petbarn. This charming chaos-bringer is deeply cherished, with those around him acknowledging that they would be lost without his spirited antics.

Mylo

Mylo is an adorable blend of English Cocker Spaniel and Miniature Poodle, aka Spoodle. A bundle of joy, Mylo has woven himself into the fabric of his family's life, gifting each member with his unique brand of happiness, affection, and irresistible charm. A family orientated dog, Mylo is his happiest when everyone is together. He always gives his best, has a happy disposition and loves to be part of the action. He is well schooled and from an early age displayed his social outlook by welcoming every dog to each class. At home, he greets everyone he knows at the door with a special welcome too. He brings a shoe or play toy to share with his guest. Additionally, He loves his food and always waits to see what is on the family menu before tucking into his kibble!

Frank

Frank and his brother Jet were adopted from the Pug Patrol Rescue Australia organisation in 2019. The boys were requiring to be rehomed due to their previous owners having to move and they were not able to take them. Unfortunately, Jet was found to suffer from a severe congenital spinal deformation called hemivertebrae which he has had since birth, causing extreme excruciating pain. Unfortunately, the vets determined Jet had to cross the rainbow bridge. Thankfully, Frank (who was totally lost without his best friend and partner in crime) does not have the same condition that Jet had.

Frank is very motivated by treats and will climb over any obstacle to get a snuggle with you. He sleeps 22 hours a day, when he's not sleeping, he's probably sitting at your feet waiting for a tasty morsel of food to drop from the heavens (dining table). He's the perfect example of a velcro pug and will follow you into the bathroom and wait at your feet. He'll even lick the water droplets off your legs fresh out of the shower.

Harvey and Marlee

Marlee, an eight-year-old Maltese x Shih Tzu, is a compact bundle of charisma and individuality. Known for her deep bond with her mum she is a constant presence by her side. Marlee's companionship extends beyond one person, but only to a select few whom she has ranked on her hierarchy. Her affiliations can shift based on the combination of people available, prioritising one over another depending on her preference. Aside from her devotion to her chosen humans, Marlee cherishes her snuggle times, indulges in play with her favourite soft toys—Good Night Bear, Monkey, or Duckie—and her favourite foods are BBQ chicken and cheese. Despite her aversion to baths, a good blow dry is a joyous occasion for her. Walks are a highlight for Marlee, especially when she is allowed the freedom to explore off-leash.

Known also as Harvey Jones or Harvey J, Harvey is a three-year-old Husky x German Shepherd x Malamute, who has been part of his family since he was a mere nine weeks old. Harvey is a creature of habit, closely attuned to the daily routines and expectations within his household. He’s a home body and family oriented and will verbalise his dissatisfaction with a situation. His favourite activities include walks, car rides, visits to the park, enjoying chicken and cheese, and attending daycare. A special delight for Harvey is the playtime with his ball, bouncing and catching it with impressive skill before returning it for another throw. Harvey also loves cuddles and pats and he likes to sleep in most days, he will not accept an early morning walk as that is his sleep time.

Frankie and Nala

Frankie is a Cattle Dog x German Shepherd who will turn 8 this year. He is a once in a lifetime dog. With an uncanny intuition, Frankie possesses a unique ability to detect when someone is feeling low. His preferred remedy for a tough day is to offer his comforting presence by nestling into the laps of his beloved humans. It’s hard to be unhappy when Frankie is around. There’s nothing Frankie likes more than being with his people and his fur sister, Nala. Frankie's fondness for fetch is unparalleled; his speed unmatched, often outpacing others to the ball. Walks, hikes up Mount Taylor, and chasing bubbles are all cherished activities that Frankie loves. An ardent food lover, he surprisingly has a special soft spot for vegetables. Car rides are always an anticipated adventure for him.

Nala is a German Shepherd x Siberian Husky and is nearly 7 years old. Possessing an enduringly cheery demeanour and striking blue eyes, she captivates people wherever she goes. Nala's intelligence was evident from her early days at puppy school. However, her Husky side really shows when it comes to following commands at times. She knows how to do things, but sometimes chooses when to do them! Nala's affectionate nature has blossomed with age, leading to an increasingly close bond with her fur family. Her adoration for her fur brother, Frankie, is unmistakable. She does not like being separated from him (even for the shortest period). Nala LOVES going for walks — the mere mention of a 'walk' ignites her excitement, and she isn't shy to use her Husky voice to hasten the process. Nala has a healthy appetite, particularly for meat, and isn't shy to vocalise her impatience if her meal isn't served promptly. Chasing Frankie during his fetch games and initiating play by stealing his soft toys, hoping for a chase, are part of her fun-filled activities

Teddy and Marnee

Teddy is a Kelpie who is very smart and loyal – and always up for some fun. His lively spirit always seeks out amusement, with running being his ultimate joy, followed closely by swimming and indulging in a good bone - though the order might be interchangeable depending on his mood! Teddy has mastered the art of communication. His favoured sleeping spot is to nestle between his two favourite humans, and he's learned how to use soft groans and whispers to cleverly claim his space in the middle of the night. It appears his charming tactics have left them completely enchanted, wrapped around his little paw without any resistance.

Marnee a Lagotto, has a sweet but aloof personality. She's a fan of cuddles, running, and enjoying a bone, but cuddles seem to top her list - but only when she's in the right mood. Marnee operates on her own terms. Every night, while Teddy follows his family to bed, Marnee waits for a special invitation. It's not until one of them approaches her, gives her a pat, and says, "come on Marnee, bed time" that she decides to join. Just calling out to her won't work, and it's not a matter of her hearing - she simply prefers the personal invitation!He loves to run more than anything in the world, followed closely by swimming, and a good bone. Maybe bones before swimming actually!

All images are shared here with the artist’s permission

ABOUT CANBERRA PET RESCUE

Canberra Pet Rescue is a registered not-for-profit charity saving animals in most desperate need through our foster carer network in homes across Canberra. There are thousands in desperate need living on the streets in Canberra and reproducing at a rapid rate. They also take in all types of pets in need, from cats to dogs to mice and everything in between! Canberra Pet Rescue ensure all animals in their care receive quality food and treatment, lots of love and care, and are in a clean and stress-free environment. They are run by volunteers and survive solely off donations from the community.

VISIT WEBSITE
@canberrapetrescue

ABOUT THE PHOTOGRAPHER

Ina J Photography is a Canberra pet photographer specialising in photographing dogs. Ina's love for pets began at a young age and has grown into a successful business that focuses on creating beautiful and timeless images of beloved pets. She loves capturing the personality and character of dogs including fun and candid action shots. Her images are filled with vibrant colours using various Canberra locations as the backdrop.

WEBSITE

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Author: Caitlin J. McColl

Caitlin J. McColl is the multi-award winning artist behind Ragamuffin Pet Photography, author of five dog-filled books and founder of the Tails of the World Collective. She lives in Melbourne, Australia with her husband, two boys and a scruffy family of rescued animals. She’s a bit of an introvert, a lot of a dork, and so very passionate about making a difference for pets in need.

RAGAMUFFIN WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | FACEBOOK