Karen Weiler, Author at Pet Photography in Toronto by Posh Pets Photography

4 Steps to Choosing the Right Dog Walker

Jan 10, 2018

The following is a guest post by Sarah El Sherbini of PetsGo Pet Care, a professional pet sitting and dog walking business serving the downtown West End of Toronto. We, at Posh Pets Photography are thrilled to have her!

Finding the right dog walker is no walk in the park.

If you work long hours, you’re probably used to seeing sad puppy eyes every morning as you get ready to leave. Or maybe you’re forced to say no to after-work events because your dog is crossing her legs waiting to be let out.

If this sounds like you, a dog walker could be the perfect solution to give your pooch a much-needed break in the day.

It can be daunting to choose someone to come into your home to look after your babies. After all, you’re putting a lot of trust in an individual to not only provide loving care to your pets, but also to respect your home, and keep your keys secure.

Did you know that dog walking in Toronto is almost completely unregulated? That’s why it’s so important to choose wisely. From a professional pet sitter to you, here’s my guide to break through the “decision paralysis” and find your perfect dog walker:

Step 1: Know Your Options

There are two main types of dog walking services. It’s important to know what you need in a dog walker first—it will make your search much easier:

Private Dog Walks

This is what most people imagine when they think of a dog walker: one human, one dog, a quiet stroll around the block. Private walks are great for dogs who love routine and would prefer not share their walker’s attention with other pooches. They are also perfect for senior dogs and those with special needs, who need a more customized approach rather than a “one-size-fits-all” solution.

Group/Pack Walks

I would estimate that about 99% of Toronto dog walkers offer this service, in which 3-6 dogs are picked up in a vehicle and walked together in a public or private park. Depending on the company, dogs may be walked on leash or allowed to run in an off-leash area. There are several reasons that pack walks are so popular: they are cost-effective for both walker and client, and they offer high-energy exercise and socialization rolled into one.

If you’re still torn between private or group walks, I wrote an article delving deeper into the pros and cons of each option.

Step 2: Where to Look

Now that you’ve narrowed down your search to one type of dog walker, where do you find them?

Recommendations

Think about who you already trust to care for your dog, and don’t be afraid to ask! Your veterinarian, groomer and local pet store will most likely have a dog walker to recommend.

Online

The next best source is the internet! Google is a great place to start, but try also searching on Yelp, or on your neighbourhood Facebook groups.

Pet-specific apps

Mobile apps are a lesser-known way to find a great pet care provider. PetVibe is a social network for pet owners, while Bark ‘N Yapp is a reviewing platform—similar to Yelp, but for pet businesses only.

Step 3: What to Look for

They are a legitimate business
They have a great online presence with positive reviews (or they are able to provide references)
They are involved with professional associations
They respond to your emails and return your calls quickly and professionally

Step 4: Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Dog Walker

How long have you been in business?
Who will be walking my dog?
Will you ever let my dog off leash? If yes, where?
Are you insured?
How often can I expect an update about my dog?
What is your backup plan if something happens and you can’t make it to a dog walk?
What is your plan in case of a medical emergency with my dog?
What measures do you take to keep my dog safe during a walk?

The Toronto dog walking industry is quickly expanding—it seems every day there’s a new dog walker in town. It’s a business that’s relatively easy to start, but I can tell you from experience that it’s a whole other story to properly maintain.

The right dog walker can make an immensely positive impact on your dog’s life: providing enrichment and exercise during a time that they would normally be sitting bored waiting for you to come home.

Now that I’ve given you the tools, you can go out there and find your dog walker! Your furry friend will thank you for it.

The above was a guest post by Sarah El Sherbini of PetsGo Pet Care, a professional pet sitting and dog walking business serving the downtown West End of Toronto. PetsGo operates under the value of quality over quantity: pet visits and dog walks are 100% private, un-timed, and completely customized to each individual pet. Visit their website to learn more: www.mypetsgo.ca

7 Ways to Make Your Dog Happy on a Consistent Basis

Dec 19, 2017

Here at Posh Pets®, we have always believed this one truth: Dogs are family. As dogs take their rightful place as full-fledged members of the family unit, we are always interested in the source of dog happiness and canine well-being. After all, there is nothing like a content and happy pup – it fills us with happiness just looking at them. Is bringing more happiness and joy into your pup’s life on the list of goals for 2018? Well, here are 7 ways to keep their tail wagging:

1. Spend time with your dog everyday

It goes without saying: our dogs love hanging out with their humans. They need and thrive in an environment where their people take an interest. So, the simplest way to make your dog happy is to spend some quality time with them. Every. Single. Day. What you do together will depend on your lifestyle and the breed of your pup: for some, simply cuddling them on the couch is enough; while others would love to go on epic adventures with you in the great outdoors. Daily walks are essential as it strengthens your bond and both of you get much needed exercise. If you love early morning walks, get up early and greet the sun together.

2. Keep your dog looking good (and posh)

Don’t you feel better when you know you look good? It’s the same with your dog. A good grooming routine is essential. However, some pups show a little apprehension with the whole grooming thing, so start with short brushing sessions and lots of positive reinforcement – praise, belly rubs and treats should never be in short supply. You can also make the session more relaxing by placing essential oils in the room and let the calming scents do their magic.

3. Make bath time fun

The simple state of being clean contributes much to your dog’s emotional and physical health, so rub-a-dub-dub! But, bath time can be another uneasy moment for some dogs. A main reason for that is the feeling of insecurity from the feel of the porcelain of your tub – when wet, that can be very slippery. So, consider getting a non-slip bath mat for your tub. It’s a simple solution that will help the dog feel more safe when in the bath.

There’s no need to hurry either. Move at a slow place, so your dog is relaxed and comfortable while being bathed. You can even massage their paws, shoulders and spine while in the bath so they can associate bath time with comfort.

4. Never skip meals

No one likes to be hungry, so make sure your pooch eats the recommended amount of food every day. If you’re unsure what is the exact amount they should be eating, ask the advice of a veterinarian or pet nutritionist.

Sticking to a feeding routine may be a challenge for working owners who sometimes come home late in the evening. Thanks to technology, feeding your dog is now a lot easier. If you are a busy owner, invest in automated pet feeders that can dispense food at designated times of the day. Or choose a dog sitter/walker that can come in and do it for you.

5. Make new buddies

It’s healthy for your pooch to play with other people or dogs once in a while. In fact, it should start socializing early on as a pup. Dogs need to be exposed to a variety of environments to develop self-confidence and avoid behaviours that manifest themselves when a dog is scared as a result of being exposed to new situations. A social dog experiences less stress, so be sure to introduce yours to new faces from time to time.

6. Give your dog gifts

Dogs can be very naughty when they’re bored, so don’t forget to leave out some chew toys and other play things to keep your dog occupied. When it comes to toys, there are so many new ones coming on the market all the time, including environmentally-conscious ones. A new toy is sure to keep your pup’s tail wagging for days, or at least a couple of minutes.

7. Teach and old dog a new trick

Teaching your dog something new makes for a fun bonding moment. Like humans, our four-legged friends are a curious bunch, and learning something new gives them mental stimulation as well as some physical exercise. The trick here is motivation: treats are great ways to reward your pup as they learn new things. If you want to go one step further, Go Fetch recommends seeking assistance from an animal behaviourist or trainer to show you how to properly train your dog. But do your research – you want to ensure that the trainer will use techniques that you are comfortable with – positive reinforcement is to be chosen over anything that frightens your dog. The goal is to make sessions fun for both you and your furry friend. A trained pup is a happy pup.

Olive | A Dog Adventure in Cambridge, Ontario

Oct 17, 2017

It all started with a question. “How early are you willing to get up? Can we meet before sunrise?“, I asked.

It was the simple sacrifice of *just* a little more sleep that allowed us to be in position to catch the sunrise over the lake and create the image below.

Olive showed up in her Boutique Session in a yellow collar – she has a different colour for each day of the week – and her Dad really wanted it showcased. During our Design Consult, he told me that he was a little concerned about whether we would be able to photograph her. Olive is an adventure dog and an independent girl. Her Dad describes her as ‘busy” and he wondered if she would be still enough for us to create one of my signature portraits. After he saw the first one at sunrise, he knew Olive was in good hands.

However, after that initial portrait, I let Olive be in charge of the rest of the session. With a little guidance from me, of course. Olive took me around and showed me all of her favourite places – and given that she walks here almost every day of her life, she had lots to show me. She would trot off only to turn around every now and again with a look of: Come on, guys! I’ve got tons of things to show you and we’ll miss it if you all keep dawdling.

pet photography kitchener waterloo cambridge

Given how early we were, there was still time to run before the heat became too much. I always think that dogs look so full of joy when they can just run.

(Side note: If action/running images is one of the things you are going to want to include in your session, I really do suggest we start early before the heat of the day sets in. And remember to pack lots of water. That way, it’s much more pleasant and safer for you and your dog.)

Pet Photographer in Kitchener, Waterloo and Cambridge, Ontario

It was one of those perfect Summer mornings where the light was beautiful and the sky was a dramatic blue. Olive’s coat literally glistened in the sun! Especially after she had taken a dip in the lake.

adventure dog photography in Cambridge, Ontario

This location offered a great variety of backdrops, including the cool shade of the forest. With that early morning sun peaking in amongst the trees, we had the perfect environment for one final, stunning portrait.

Olive’s canvas and framed prints now grace the walls of the home she shares with Dad. The Wall Art together with her Posh Pets® Folio, allows her to show off what a much loved doggie she is!

“Olive, thank you so much for taking me on your morning adventure with you. You have one of the most beautiful places to explore and I cannot wait until our Winter Session!”

Do you have an adventure dog? If you would like us to join you on an outdoor adventure with your dog, a Boutique Session is the place to start. Details are below:

POSH PETS BOUTIQUE™ SESSIONS

Where it all begins

Pre-session Design Consult that ensures we create images you will be thrilled with.
The result is gorgeous custom artwork the life your pet shares with your family.
A personal Ordering Consultation to ensure you select the right images from the gallery.
Please note: The Creative Fee covers time and talent to photograph a maximum of four (4) subjects, which can be any combination of people and up to two (2) pets who live within the same household. Additional subjects may be photographed for a small additional fee.
Examples of portraits from Posh Pets Boutique™ Sessions can be found here.

Book Now

SwissRidge Doodle Romp of 2017 | Toronto Dog Event

Aug 20, 2017

What a day was the SwissRidge Doodle Romp of 2017. Each year the ‘doodles’ of SwissRidge Kennels come together to raise money for a worthy cause and enjoy one huge ‘play date’ in Guelph for their extended family. I met pet parents who packed up their doodle(s) in a car or van, arranged travel documents and crossed the border from Pennsylvania, Illinois, Maine and Massachusetts, got on planes from Calgary, and in cars from all over Ontario and the GTA. Getting a photo of such a large group is a lot of fun!

Below, you can find some of the individual furries I was able to capture as they went about meeting old and new friends, running about and sniffing butts. I tried my best to remember the names of those I met, but without having written anything down, it is quite likely I have mixed some up. And then there were those who I did not know who mum and/or dad were. If you can provide further information, I would be happy to make the corrections.

So, without any further ado, please meet…

Jack

Tiny little Rowdy!

George

Emma

Toronto pet photographer, Posh Pets Photography

Finn – the kind of chocolate that is perfectly GOOD for you!

Stella

Blizzard

Noah

Pearl

Someone receiving a little cuddle from a reassuring hand.

This is Rocky who is never far from his mum’s side.

Lola

Wylie

Friends meeting…

Zolo

Bernie – the beautiful black beauty!

Eala, running with the wind in her hair!

Dog action photography in Toronto, Canada

Buddy

Rocky getting a well-deserved belly rub.

Pearl & Stella

Brittany

Would you know your doodle by their “doodle butt”?

Thanks for making it such a good time and see you next year!

A bonus…

Want to capture these types of memories every day? Sign up here for the Tips for Taking Drool-Worthy Pictures of Your Pet With Your Phone – a free pdf showing how to work with your phone to get great imagery. Have fun out there!

A Final Trip to Niagara-on-the-Lake | Heritage Session™

Aug 15, 2017

When I first heard from Buddy’s mum it was with a mixture of excitement and sadness. Buddy came all the way from Pennsylvania for what would be his final trip to Canada – a dog bucket list of sorts. He was facing some serious health issues and his mum wanted to enjoy travelling with him one more time. Niagara-on-the-Lake was chosen as the backdrop for this special occasion.

Niagara on the Lake dog bucket list photography session

As you can see above, we took some portraits on what is arguably one of the prettiest streets in the Niagara region.

From there, we moved to enjoy a picnic in the park. Buddy put on his best tie and brought a blanket. They spent some quiet moments together reminiscing about what a great life he had led.

He even brought his best friends to join in the fun!

But a new park is a place to explore and sniff. Even have a little run. But, most of all, times like these are reasons to smile.

Buddy still loved to get his feet wet in the gentle surf, so we spent some time on the little beach.

corgi dog playing in the water in Canada

All too soon it was time to go home. A short while later, I received a note from his mum saying that Buddy was gone. I cried. This beautiful boy who had brought so much joy to his family was no more.

I was even more touched when she ended her note with the following:

“Through all of this my mother and I have said many times we do not know what we would do without your photos. After they were taken, he started to deteriorate rapidly. He looks so wonderful, healthy, and happy in them and that is the way we hope to remember him.

Thank you for everything.”

Run free Buddy. Always.

For more information on Posh Pets Heritage™ Sessions, see below.

POSH PETS® HERITAGE SESSIONS

Celebrating the life, love and legacy of your pet. ™

High-priority sessions are reserved for pets that become ill or are simply elderly. We make every effort to schedule these on short notice and work within their restrictions.
An opportunity to take time out of your busy schedule to spend some quality time together, celebrate the life you have shared and create images you will treasure forever.
Please note: The Creative Fee covers time and talent to photograph a maximum of four (4) subjects, which can be any combination of people and up to two (2) pets who live within the same household. Additional subjects may be photographed for a small additional fee.
More information can be found here.

Book Now

Annual Shelter Support Day @ CB2 | Toronto Dog Event

May 2, 2017

In case you missed, it, last Saturday was a day to meet new friends and and sniff a few butts in the big city of Toronto!

Wait…What?

It’s not as strange as you think if you are a dog. And, we, the humans of Posh Pets® Photography, had the absolute pleasure of meeting tons of urban Toronto dogs coming into the CB2 store (located at Bathurst & Queen) for the dog photography event of the day – all for the Annual Shelter Support Day. There were little ones, big ones, young puppies, old souls and many, many wagging tails. And no wonder – every participant got to enjoy tasty treats and went home with an awesome tennis ball, all courtesy of CB2.

The Crate and Barrel/CB2 annual event provides financial assistance to a local rescue/shelter organization who do so much in caring for dogs and helping them find their forever homes. For the Toronto event, Tiny Paws Dog Rescue was chosen. As a bonus, we all got to meet Oscar who is currently in their care and eagerly awaiting a home to call his own. (Want to have a part in finding him a home? Please share his photo.)

Find the full photo gallery here:

In amongst all of the excitement, we were able to create beautiful images of all of the smiling, happy faces of the many well-loved dogs who already call this great city their home. Here’s the complete gallery…please scroll through to find your pup and share with the world!

For some behind-the-scenes footage, check out the video, below:

The Making of a Perfect Morning | Sunrise Session™

Mar 24, 2017

Would you be willing to get up before dawn to greet the sun?

If you have a dog, the morning walk is almost guaranteed to be a part of your daily routine. Even if it just a quick walk around the block because of the myriad of other things you have to do that day.

But…just for a moment…find beauty in the ordinary routine of life. Think about what it would be like to slow down and just relish that time with your one and only. To engage in conversation that only your dog can truly understand.

To share a moment like this…

Silhouette of dog at sunrise in Toronto, Canada

Start With the Sunrise…

Myca and his mum are two that truly celebrate their morning routine. They amble along the waterfront, taking in the gorgeousness of the city skyline when no one else is around. This is their city, their home and their time together. And on a crisp, fall morning, we got to share it all with the two of them.

The following scene is one that the two of them witness countless times throughout the year – but how to capture the first kiss of the sun in an image with Myca? Well, it’s all in precise timing (and a little practice on the part of your photographer).

We watched and waited…and waited a little more…until just the right time to have Myca find his place up on his rock. That gave him a moment to settle down into his pose – but not so long that he would become bored – just as the sun peaked up over the horizon.

The result? Exactly what mum wanted!

Enjoy Your Morning Run

After our sunrise was complete, we took a little walk and, like many Torontonians, enjoyed our morning run along the waterfront and the Humber bridge.

(The miracle here is the fact that we had the bridge all to ourselves! If you’ve ever been down at the waterfront in the morning, you know how rare that is.)

running dog on humber bridge, Toronto series

bernedoodle dog running on humber bridge in Toronto, Canada

happy running dog on bridge in Toronto, Canada

Take Time to Enjoy the Season

From there we moved on to where I knew there was a beautiful pocket of colour…

Autumn is truly a spectacular time of year in Southern Ontario, and you can enjoy it, even in the city. Mum wanted to capture all of that beauty of her boy and Fall in her gallery.

bernedoodle dog in autumn leaves in Southern Ontario, Canada

Mum also told me that she doesn’t like any pictures of herself. In fact, she hasn’t had a professional photograph of herself in years. Well, she doesn’t say that anymore…!

woman and her dog in Toronto's lakeshore park.

Feel the Sand Between Your Toes

And because no session would be complete without a good swim at the beach for a water-loving dog, we ended with a splash and a nice, big stick!

But, Shhh…let’s keep this our little secret. We don’t want Myca’s groomer see what we let him do…!

dog running on beach with stick and Toronto CN Tower

Myca’s gallery was so large that Mum had a hard time choosing her favourites. She ended up with a gorgeous folio box along with some stunning pieces of wall art. You can read all about the experience in her own words here.

Do you want to share the sunrise with your dog? The place to start is with a Boutique Session, described below.

POSH PETS BOUTIQUE™ SESSIONS

Where it all begins

Pre-session Design Consult that ensures we create images you will be thrilled with.
The result is gorgeous custom artwork the life your pet shares with your family.
A personal Ordering Consultation to ensure you select the right images from the gallery.
Please note: The Creative Fee covers time and talent to photograph a maximum of four (4) subjects, which can be any combination of people and up to two (2) pets who live within the same household. Additional subjects may be photographed for a small additional fee.
Examples of portraits from Posh Pets Boutique™ Sessions can be found here.

Find out more

Five Ways to Enjoy Family Day With Your Pet | Toronto

Feb 12, 2017

Family Day is the youngest statutory holiday in Ontario, as it was only added in 2008. The official reason for another holiday? Well, according to the website, it is because people “work very hard and they deserve more time to spend with the people they love”. What’s this about only people? Because in my books, family definitely includes the dogs and cats and any other furry creatures we share our lives with.

So, without any further ado, here is my rundown on how and where to create epic Family Day weekend memories with your pet.

1. Get outside

Got a favourite park or discover a new local spot! Take your time ambling, sniffing and building that human-canine bond. If you have a dog that loves to run, bring a ball, a frisbee or find a stick. No matter what you do, you will both enjoy the fresh air and get a little exercise.

Family Day at High Park in Toronto, Canada.

2. Discover a National Park

This might take a bit more than a day to do and some advance planning, but you have the whole weekend together! Did you know that there is free admission into Canada’s National Parks this year? You do have to apply for the Discovery Pass, which, in my experience, takes a few weeks to come in. But, this could be one of those amazing #travelwithdog memories you will remember for years to come.

3. Enjoy the night life

The Toronto Light Festival in the Distillery District is being held from January 27 – March 12, 2017. Completely pet-friendly, come out at night and see the place lit up! If you choose to go Sunday night, you can enjoy sleeping in Monday. Your pet will love the luxurious decadence of lazing about in bed with you.

Light Installation in Distillery District

Little dog in Distillery District, Toronto

4. Appreciate warmth

For the ones who are not fans of the cold, spend the day at Purina Paws Way for their Family Day celebrations. The Woofjocks Canine All-Stars will be performing at 12 pm, 1:30 pm and 3:30 pm. There will also be special games, crafts and activities for the whole family, including furry ones. Free admission.

Family Day at Purina Paws Way in Toronto, Canada

5. Do some serious shopping

A lot of retailers of all things pet allow dogs and cats in their stores. But, it does not have to stop there. The Bloor Street location of Holt Refrew has a dog-friendly policy so that your favourite canine can help you pick out the perfect outfit. Afterall, their bark of approval is everything. Woof!

A bonus…

Want to capture these Family Day weekend memories for all time? Sign up here for the Tips for Taking Drool-Worthy Pictures of Your Pet With Your Phone – a free pdf showing how to work with your phone to get great imagery. Have fun out there!

Mochi – An ‘Engaged’ Kitten | Posh Pets Studio™

Jan 3, 2017

persian kitten playing with turquoise ribbon

Being a Toronto pet photographer has its perks. Quite often I get to celebrate the joy that comes along with the arrival of a new furry family member, which can be such fun. But TINY Mochi’s arrival was even more special because she got to be a BIG part of a very important day for her family – the day her humans got engaged! (Tell me, what you were doing when you were only 9-weeks old?) But yes, Mochi was the culmination of a very well-executed plan that her Dad had come up with in order to woo Mum into saying, ‘yes’. (She did!)

Given those happy circumstances, during their Design Consult, both Mum and Dad said that they were hoping to incorporate the ring into some of the final portraits. While they may have thought it might be impossible because well, it would require posing a kitten, Mochi showed that she can model like a star.

Toronto pet photographer and engagement photography

engagement photography by Toronto pet photographer, Posh Pets Photography

Of course, in our never-ending quest to create timeless artwork, we mainly photographed Mochi as herself at this very brief period in her life. Mochi is a ragdoll kitten and will therefore grow to be much larger than she was the day we had her in our studio. Her colouring will change and her ‘tips’ will darken, so it was important to photograph in a way that preserves her ‘kittenhood’ forever.

Toronto's premier pet photographer with portrait of ragdoll kitten

Contemporary pet portrait photography by Posh Pets Photography

There was one image that I envisioned in my mind before the session, believing that Mochi would be the perfect model. Reminiscent of fine art newborn photography, the beauty of this image is the colour, drape and texture of the fabric with an equally richly-coloured background. The monochromatic palette makes Mochi come alive. And just look at those stunning blue eyes!

In the end, Mochi went home with a gorgeous Posh Pets® Folio and a large piece of canvas wall art. I cannot wait until she returns for her second session…all grown up!

Interested in a Posh Pets Studio™ Session for your puppy or kitten? Find the details on how you can book, below.

POSH PETS STUDIO™ SESSIONS

Classic studio portraiture

- Studio portraits with a twist...we come to YOU! These sessions mean we are bringing the backdrop, the lights and all of the equipment necessary to set up a photo studio in your home. Of course, if you prefer, you are welcome to come to our studio.
- The result of this series is classic artwork with a timeless aesthetic that you will be proud to display on your walls.
- Ideal for puppies, smaller breeds, cats or pets who are not comfortable travelling or spending time in the great outdoors.
- Please note: The Creative Fee covers time and talent to photograph a maximum of four (4) subjects, which can be any combination of people and up to two (2) pets who live within the same household. Additional subjects may be photographed at a cost of $50 per subject.
- Examples of portraits from Posh Pets Studio™ Sessions can be found here.

Book Now

Have Dog (or Cat), Will Travel | Toronto Luxury Hotel Guide

Aug 11, 2016

We, at Posh Pets® Photography, are wanderlust junkies – there’s nothing like exploring a city and discovering its secrets. And we know that the journey can be even more fun if you can bring along your entire family, including Fido or Simba. If you are planning a visit to Toronto, I’ve got great news – there are luxury hotels in Toronto that are cat and dog friendly.

I know that when I travel, I scour the internet looking for tidbits and information on how to get the most out of our trip. Having lived in the Toronto area for most of my life, I can tell you that this is world-class city. It’s also a city of pet-lovers. On any given day, you can see urban dogs going for their daily walks, making quick coffee runs or sitting patiently while their humans enjoy a drink on a patio. So, if you’re planning to travel to Toronto (or who just want to have a quick getaway in your home city), be assured that your Fido does not have to stay in a campground or dingy hotel. There are many options for luxury accommodations, and I’ve rounded up the five that I think you and your dog or cat will just love. (PS: Because you all know how much we love the kitties among us, I’ve indicated which hotels welcome feline guests.)

Four Seasons Toronto Hotel

This hotel is close to my heart because it is sort of the birthplace of Posh Pets Photography. We stayed here celebrating a milestone anniversary for my parents a number of years ago, and, at the time, they were one of the few luxury hotels I could find that would allow us to bring my mom and dad’s two shih tzus. After having photographed MacLeod in one of the suites, I coined the name “posh pet” and the seed was planted in my brain. The hotel has since undergone a major move and is the centre of all of the action during the annual Toronto International Film Festival, where I am sure they welcome their share of celebrity pets. To this day, even those with less star power can have a great night’s rest, so long as Fido doesn’t snore. (Additional $125 charge per stay) Please note: The Four Seasons also accepts feline guests.

main entrance of Four Seasons Hotel in Toronto

toronto pet photographer dog in hotel room

Image provided by the Four Seasons Toronto Hotel.

Image provided by the Four Seasons Toronto Hotel.

Windsor Arms Hotel

Just down the road from the Four Seasons is another gorgeous boutique hotel. It’s located in the heart of the shopping district, boasts an amazing spa and, if you enjoy a British staple, hosts Afternoon High Tea everyday. My husband treated me to both last year for our anniversary, so I can vouch for the fact that the Windsor Arms takes care of its human guests. They are also very pet-friendly – one of the few that allow you to leave your pet unattended in your room/suite for short periods of time. (Additional $50 charge per stay) Please note: The Windsor Arms also accepts feline guests.

Windsor Arms Hotel at Bloor Street, Toronto

Gaby the hotel dog of the Windsor Arms Hotel

Image provided by the Windsor Arms Hotel.

Image provided by the Windsor Arms Hotel.

Le Germain Toronto Maple Leaf Square

Located in the downtown core, this is the hotel for you if you are a Toronto sports fan. The local hockey (The Leafs), baseball (The Jays), american football (The Argos) and european football (soccer – TFC) teams all have their home stadiums/arenas close by, as are the CN Tower and Ripley’s Aquarium. This luxury hotel has an entire page dedicated to #poshpetstravel information. (Additional $30 charge per stay)

Main entrance of St. Germain hotel in Toronto

Image provided by the Le Germain Toronto Maple Leaf Square.

Image provided by the Le Germain Toronto Maple Leaf Square.

Fairmont Royal York Hotel

The Fairmont brand is known worldwide for it’s attention to luxury. The Toronto property was officially opened in 1929 and was originally the tallest building in the British Commonwealth. I loved our stay at the Royal York! If you are looking for a hotel that boasts all of the amenities of the modern world, but the old-world charm of painted ceilings, travertine pillars, crystal chandeliers and wall hangings, the Royal York is for you. You can even try and ride elevator number nine which has carried such guests as Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. I’m sure your posh pet will find that appropriate when you check-in. (Additional $25 charge per night)

Entrance to Fairmont Royal York Hotel in Toronto

Signature Double Suite at Fairmont Royal York Hotel in Toronto.

Image provided by the Fairmont Royal York.

Lobby of the Fairmont Royal York Hotel in Toronto.

Image provided by the Fairmont Royal York.

Shangri-La Hotel

I walked past this hotel almost every day during its construction (it’s one of Toronto’s more recent additions) and it’s modern all-glass exterior is simply striking. It’s great for art lovers, as this hotel is situated within walking distance of the home of the Canadian Opera Company as well as Roy Thomson Hall where the Toronto Symphony Orchestra plays. The Royal Ontario Museum and the Art Gallery of Ontario are just a quick cab ride away. And you can do all of this without worrying about your ‘small to medium size’ pet. They allow pets to remain in the room unattended (as long as they are crated), and the concierge is more than happy to assist you with pet-sitting needs if Fido one needs more individual attention. (Additional $125 charge per stay) Please note: The Shangri-La also accepts feline guests.

Shangri-La Hotel on Avenue Road, Toronto

Image provided by the Shangri-La Hotel Toronto.

Moongate Suite at Shangri-La Hotel Toronto

Image provided by the Shangri-La Hotel Toronto.

So, with that, welcome to Toronto! While you’re here, you might even want to consider a custom portrait session for the one that makes you smile every single day. For the dog guests, a Posh Pups in the City™ Session would be the perfect place to start. For the well-travelled cats, we could arrange something inside. Either way, make memories of your visit to Toronto last a lifetime!

POSH PETS BOUTIQUE™ SESSIONS

Where it all begins

Pre-session Design Consult that ensures we create images you will be thrilled with.
The result is gorgeous custom artwork the life your pet shares with your family.
A personal Ordering Consultation to ensure you select the right images from the gallery.
Please note: The Creative Fee covers time and talent to photograph a maximum of four (4) subjects, which can be any combination of people and up to two (2) pets who live within the same household. Additional subjects may be photographed for a small additional fee.
Examples of portraits from Posh Pets Boutique™ Sessions can be found here.

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And They Call it Puppy Love | Three Ways to Capture Puppyhood

Jul 20, 2016

Puppies are amazing. Those beautiful eyes. The big paws. The sweet new puppy breath. The way they wiggle. And now, you have just welcomed one into your home! Take a moment to savour this big event for this is the very beginning of your adventure together.

brown, black and yellow lab on porch

We can wish with everything we have that our puppy could remain a puppy forever, but it’s simply not possible. In fact, it is amazing how quickly puppies physically change during the first few weeks and months of their lives. However, there is a way to ‘bottle’ all of that new puppy goodness, so to speak, and that is by photographing him or her. But, think of puppy photography as comparable to newborn photography – if you want images that will forever preserve those first few weeks of ‘newness’, be sure to photograph them early and often, because that stage will be gone before you know it. So, how do you make sure you don’t miss anything important? Here are 3 ways…

1. Photograph your new puppy in their new home

When your puppy first arrives home, photograph their first moments in your home, now their home. These images do not have to be technically perfect (this image has a pile of towels in the background), but they will be so precious when you look back at them and think that this was the day when <insert name> joined our family.

puppy laying on floor at home

Photography is all about light. Believe me, you will feel better about your images if you can coax your new little bundle of fur into good light. Try images by windows that will give you gorgeous diffused light. Even when your puppy is naughty (notice that this little guy has obviously gotten into something), ensure they are safe, and then take a photograph. Getting in close will allow you to document their wrinkles, their furrowed eyesbrows and those big paws.

puppy home portrait

No doubt, as your puppy ventures outside for their first steps on the property, you will be right there with them. You can watch them from a bit of a distance and, with a zoom lens, capture their natural inclination to explore their environment.

yellow lab puppy walking on path

black lab puppy running

Know that new puppies will tire easily and will often take naps wherever and whenever they feel like it, giving you wonderful opportunities to photograph peaceful moments.
yellow lab puppy sleeping in grass

2. Be sure to continue photographing them as they grow

As puppies get older, they will begin to explore their environment and test their boundaries. This will give you lots of opportunities to capture those puppy antics. Here, this little girl purposely climbed into her mum’s garden and lay on the flowers to pose for me. There wasn’t any danger (except to the bent flowers), so I didn’t stop her. The result is a natural portrait that brings a smile to your face.

chocolate lab puppy posing with flowers

Don’t forget to take some headshots by getting up close and personal with your puppy. Photographing them from just under their eye-line as I have here makes them appear larger.

smiling puppy headshot

I have found that, as a puppy moves around, they often just stop to look at the world around them. If you can command their attention, you will be able to create a very beautiful portrait. As always, try and be conscious of how the light is falling on your subject (your little guy or girl) and you will be much happier with what you produce. posing puppy in garden bed

formal puppy portrait in Toronto

And, honestly, sometimes puppies will just ignore you and really test their boundaries. These two were on the edge of the property, and had they ventured any further, we would have physically picked them up to bring them back. I’m not sure what caught their attention, but this portrait gives the idea of having the whole world ahead of you. Which is, when you think about it, very true of puppyhood.

puppies gazing into the distance

3. Arrange for a studio portrait session

Sometimes you are looking for classic, studio portraits of your puppy and this is where it is wise to book with a professional. Puppies often do very well in the studio. It’s a safe, closed off environment where they can explore, but all the while under your watchful eye. They also often enjoy all of the cuddles and attention they get during the session from their new friend, the photographer. With the non-distracting background, you will have timeless portraits that show your puppy’s personality and sweetness.

black lab puppy with red polka dot tie

yellow lab with plaid bowtie

chocolate brown puppy with blue bowtie

chocolate lab puppy with pink bow

black lab puppy on blue

So, there you have it – 3 ways to forever remember your puppy in photographs and art. Be sure to look through your images and choose some to print and display. Images, while they are fun for sharing, are not really appreciated with everyone huddled around a computer of some other device. Your puppy is a member of your family now so ensure you display some of those up on your walls.

If you are looking to capture your puppy’s first moments and their first year, a great option is the Year in the Life Luxury Series. Find more details below.

YEAR IN THE LIFE LUXURY SERIES

A series of Boutique™ Sessions to capture the first year or the seasons.

A series of three (3) Posh Pets Boutique™ Sessions throughout the year. Perfect for capturing puppy or kitty’s first year. Or, to document the life your pet leads with the different beautiful seasons we enjoy in Southern Ontario as your backdrop.
The result of this series will be a gorgeous life story that you will treasure forever.
A Posh Pets Studio™ Session can be substituted for one of your session for a small fee.
Please note: The Creative Fee covers time and talent to photograph a maximum of four (4) subjects, which can be any combination of people and up to two (2) pets who live within the same household. Additional subjects may be photographed at a cost of $50 per subject.
More information on A Year in the Life Sessions can be found here.

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June is Adopt A Shelter Cat Month | Five Reasons to Adopt a Cat

Jun 2, 2016

Why adopt a shelter cat? We’d love to tell you! June has been declared Adopt-A-Shelter-Cat-Month and we at Posh Pets are huge kitty lovers. Our resident cats, Baxter and Panda both came from Toronto Animal Services and they are absolutely wonderful! Baxter has been with us for three years and Panda for two and we cannot possibly imagine life without them. Every night I’m reminded, as my legs are pinned together in one place because they sleep on opposite sides, that a purr in the house makes it a home.

So obviously, we are big supporters of adoption. Maybe you’re thinking about it, but maybe you’ve heard stories. So, here are five reasons to consider a shelter cat:

1. There’s a cat personality that’s just right for everyone.

I find it is a huge myth that all cats are aloof and shun human interaction. Baxter and Panda are proof-positive. I often call them my ‘puppy-cats’ because they greet us when we come home, respond to their names, love to be petted, brushed and will often cuddle up on my lap when I am working. There’s no doubt that my husband and I have created an environment where that type of behaviour flourishes, but the fact is, they were very sociable while still in the shelter. And it showed. That’s probably one of the great things of visiting a shelter to choose a kitty – there are many different breeds and personalities to choose from all in one place. Add to that, the staff usually have a good idea of the personalities, and can help you choose the perfect cat for you and your lifestyle.

2. You’re saving a life.

Many shelters are overrun with cats looking for homes. It’s a harsh world for a cat or a kitten on the streets. Fifty percent of feral cats die within their first year and are considered ‘lucky’ if they make it past 2 years of age. Whereas, a well-cared for indoor kitty has an average lifespan of 15 years! Adopting a cat not only gives them a great life, but also saves the life of the one who now has a ‘spot’ at the shelter. That second cat now has their own chance at a forever home which, when they find it, leaves a spot for one more. Believe me, hearing the thankful, content purr of a feline friend that you share your home with, is simply amazing.

3. Shelter and rescue cats are a good financial decision.

If you have weighed the benefits and costs of cat ownership, then getting your furry feline from a rescue or shelter makes sense. When you adopt an animal from a shelter, you are receiving the benefits of all of the work has been done before. They have had a health check, received necessary vaccines, are often spayed or neutered and have passed a behavioural assessment. They are also often sent home with a ‘starter kit’ consisting of lots of information, food, some health insurance. Plus, your adoption fee is a donation towards the medical needs of yet other animals in the rescue’s care. It all makes perfect cents!

4. There are health benefits to owning a cat

Having a pet has shown to minimize our health risks. Everything from lowering the risk of stroke, high blood pressure, heart disease and heart attacks. Much has even been written on the health benefits of a cat’s purr – it’s certainly calming to listen to a happy kitty purring by your side. So, you’re saving a life and they, in turn, are lengthening yours.

5. It’s a great way to support a great cause.

Rescues and shelter are doing great work helping cats live better lives. Your adoption sets a great example for those who believe that a shelter cat is somehow damaged or unhealthy. You’re helping get the word out that they are indeed loveable pets and can give so much back in return. If you are unable to adopt at this time, you can consider making a donation to a shelter or rescue that you believe in. As they say:

Adopt. If you can’t adopt, foster. If you can’t foster, volunteer. If you can’t volunteer, donate. If you can’t donate, educate.

If you are looking to adopt a shelter cat because you want the companionship of a great cat or kitten, there are many shelter and rescue organizations within the GTA. Here are some of them:

Toronto Animal Services

Toronto Humane Society

Annex Cat Rescue

Toronto Cat Rescue

Team Cat Rescue

Step 1: Know Your Options

Step 2: Where to Look

Step 3: What to Look for

Step 4: Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Dog Walker

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1. Spend time with your dog everyday

2. Keep your dog looking good (and posh)

3. Make bath time fun

4. Never skip meals

5. Make new buddies

6. Give your dog gifts

7. Teach and old dog a new trick

POSH PETS BOUTIQUE™ SESSIONS

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POSH PETS® HERITAGE SESSIONS

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For some behind-the-scenes footage, check out the video, below:

Start With the Sunrise…

Enjoy Your Morning Run

Take Time to Enjoy the Season

Feel the Sand Between Your Toes

POSH PETS BOUTIQUE™ SESSIONS

Where it all begins

1. Get outside

2. Discover a National Park

3. Enjoy the night life

4. Appreciate warmth

5. Do some serious shopping

A bonus…

Getting a new dog or cat? Your First 30 Days Checklist is here!

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POSH PETS STUDIO™ SESSIONS

Classic studio portraiture

Four Seasons Toronto Hotel

Windsor Arms Hotel

Le Germain Toronto Maple Leaf Square

Fairmont Royal York Hotel

Shangri-La Hotel

POSH PETS BOUTIQUE™ SESSIONS

Where it all begins

1. Photograph your new puppy in their new home

2. Be sure to continue photographing them as they grow

3. Arrange for a studio portrait session

YEAR IN THE LIFE LUXURY SERIES

A series of Boutique™ Sessions to capture the first year or the seasons.

1. There’s a cat personality that’s just right for everyone.

2. You’re saving a life.

3. Shelter and rescue cats are a good financial decision.

4. There are health benefits to owning a cat

5. It’s a great way to support a great cause.

Adopt. If you can’t adopt, foster. If you can’t foster, volunteer. If you can’t volunteer, donate. If you can’t donate, educate.

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