Some sessions leave an imprint on your heart long after the camera is packed away. My time with Kelsey, Garrett, and their beloved horse, Izzy, was absolutely one of those.
When Kelsey reached out for a session as part of my 4 Paws (or Hooves) Over 10 Project, we both knew this wasn’t just about photographs. This was about creating something meaningful and lasting — a tribute to the incredible bond between a girl and her horse, captured before time slipped any further away.
Izzy had been living with Cushing’s disease and arthritis, and it was clear his time here was growing short.
During our session, we made sure Izzy didn’t have to move more than necessary. We stayed close, found quiet spots with soft golden light, and let the warmth between them tell the story. There was laughter, a few tears, and a lot of love shared that evening.
Kelsey was kind enough to share her story in her own words — a testament to Izzy’s big personality, even bigger heart, and the countless memories they made together:
"I got to enjoy nearly 20 years with Izzy. He fit his name to a T.. GSW Izzy Awesome…. And that he was. In ohhh soooo many ways.
At the time, I wanted to start roping (which was super exciting for my dad) and he found Izzy for us to share. He didn’t arrive the way you’d anticipate a horse of his caliber to come."
"He didn’t arrive like most high-caliber horses do; he came sight-unseen, on the back of a semi-truck full of cattle, to a sale barn in New Mexico on Halloween night. If that wasn’t enough culture shock for one day, my first ride was in the dark (by headlights) bareback in his pen.
Izzy got the call for so much more than roping though. If there was something to be done, he always ended up being the best choice. His big personality, sassy attitude, and undeniable love for snacks made him unforgettable. He ruled the pasture, kept everyone in line, and still had time to charm his way into every treat bag he could find.
Izzy earned every ounce of his retirement time. I promised he’d stay with us until the end because he earned every bit of his retirement and deserved nothing less. He gave me his best for two decades. It was only right that I gave him the same love and care until his final day."
"He went above and beyond for us, and more specifically for me. I promised he’d stay with us until the end because he earned every bit of his retirement and deserved nothing less. He gave me his best for two decades. It was only right that I gave him the same love and care until his final day."
Pieces that last the test of time
Not long after their session, I sat with Kelsey and Garrett in their home as they carefully chose the images and wall art that would keep Izzy close. There are reminders of the nearly 20 years of partnership, adventures, and unconditional love. Though Izzy is no longer physically here, I know these portraits will serve as a daily reminder of everything he meant to them.
Why these sessions matter
Stories like Izzy’s are why I created 4 Paws (or Hooves) Over 10. Our senior pets and horses may slow down, but their impact on our lives never fades. These sessions are about preserving the bond, the history, and the small moments that become treasures when we look back.
If you have a senior pet or horse who holds your heart, let’s create something meaningful together.
Because they deserve to be remembered; not just today, but always.