The other day my friend Karen and I had a chance to catch up. I asked her about recent jobs she and Michael have done (they’re pet photographers) and she shocked me by telling me they’d gone with another friend who was having her dog put to sleep to photograph that.
Now, they were very close friends with this person and I can understand going for support, but to catch the moment on film? That really shook me up. I admitted as much.
“I know it sounds a little weird, but Donna got the idea because they’ve done some infant bereavement photography.”
“What?”
“It’s kind of a growing movement for those whose little ones don’t make it for whatever reason. Gives them a chance to have pictures to remember them by which can help with the grieving process.”
There is an organization called Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep that was established to offer healing and solace for those who do find themselves separated from their little ones unexpectedly and way too early. The photographs become priceless heirlooms that serve as vessels of remembrance for the family. Apparently some photographers are now applying the same concept to pet bereavement, which can be just as traumatic as losing a human family member.
I thought back to when Budly died. Wayne and I had both been in the room when they delivered the lethal injection, and we were there to hold him as he passed away. I thought that was among the most brutal moments of my life, but I was thankful I had the chance to be with him. I have never regretted it and if it ever comes to doing it again, I would without any hesitation.
But taking pictures of it?
That I’m not so sure about.
And then I got to thinking about the logistics of it. If I didn’t know Karen and Michael (and that they were willing to do something like that), how would I find someone who would? Sure, anyone can snap a photo, but these type of photographers do it with an artistic touch. They know how to stage it so they capture the tenderest memory possible.
Which made me wonder about the timing issue. Sometimes you just don’t have time to plan a goodbye.
So I guess for some this would help with their grieving process, but for me I think it would add to the already abundant stress I’d have at such a time.
What about you? How do you feel about it? Would you do it? Have you?
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