HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Do whatever it is that makes your heart sing!

I Believe I Can FLY!! | Phoenix Disc Dog Photographer

The third time was a charm when shooting the awesome 'Disc Duo' of Wendy and her uber-talented dog, Boost!  These two are an amazing team!  Now, understand I can't even throw a frisbee in a straight line let alone trying to throw it on a certain arc, at a certain height, all done while a dog is rebounding off my body!  And Boost can attest to that!  I tried throwing the disc for him and if dog's could laugh, I'm sure that's what he would have done!  But then, he's used to working with a pro!

We've tried to get this shoot done on three different occasions!  The first day was so overcast there wasn't enough light for good action shots.  The second time we got together I left the camera on the settings I'd been using the night before and the photos all came out with web-sized photos.  (Note to self...check and re-check the camera settings before a shoot!)  And the third time we NAILED it!  Wendy was such a sport about meeting me each time.  Boost was actually hoping we'd have to do it again because he can't get enough of this game!  He has this 'one-track mind' once he hits the park that says, "Throw the disc...throw the disc...throw the disc"! 

Here's a short series to show just how in-synch they are with each other...

And check out the height this dog gets...  Unreal!!

Thanks, Wendy...for being such a great sport about meeting me again and again!  And Booster...we'll have to come up with another reason to get you back to the park!

HO HO HO...! | Phoenix Area Pet Photographer

I had the chance to spend the afternoon with 'THE BIG GUY' himself!  He pulled himself away from the North Pole to spend the day at Petsmart!  All I can say is he must be a whole lot further ahead in his holiday preparations than I am!

I volunteered to take "Santa Paws" photos to benefit HALO Animal Rescue today.  They're an awesome organization that pulls wonderful dogs and cats off the euthanasia list at County and helps them find their 'forever' homes!  My little kitty, Mocha, who is curled up in my inbox right now, came from HALO 10 years ago!  I love her to death!!  She is always here to keep me company during long nights of editing! 

NO MORE HOMELESS PETS! A Holiday Message...

Best Friends is an organization near and dear to my heart!  A few years ago I had the opportunity to visit their Sanctuary in Kanab.  It's located in Angel Canyon, at the heart of the Golden Circle of National Parks in Southern Utah.  It's incredible there!  The views are breathtaking no matter which direction you look.

A year or so after that I spent a week with them in a rescue effort in Pahrump, NV.  They walked into a situation where there were thought to be 400 cats, and when all were counted they found over 750 cats living in an abusive situation.   It's an experience I'll never forget...

So, while I'm busy editing photos from the weekend, here's a Holiday video from Best Friends that you might enjoy!

AZ DOG SPORTS HOLIDAY PARTY | Phoenix Pet Photographer

I spent the day at AZ Dog Sports celebrating the Holidays... or should that be Howl-i-days?  I had the chance to photograph so many fun dogs!  If you haven't checked out this great 5000 s.f. indoor facility yet, you need to drop by next time you're in the area of Cactus and Tatum!   They offer a wide range of classes...  Everything from Puppy Classes & Socialization, Agility, Disc Dog, Herding, Canine Conditioning and so much more!

Here are just a few of of the decked out dogs that visited with Santa today...  And Santa was the BEST! 

A special thanks to all of you that let me photograph your dogs today!  And thank you for your donations to the Home Fur Good Animal Rescue.  I will have your photos up on the website as soon as possible!

This is Oshi...and it's as close as we could get to a smile!  But look at those soulful eyes!  I think he's telepathically communicating his wish list to Santa!

Puppy's First Christmas!  This is Secret... and I'm pretty sure she got a 'forever home' for Christmas!  (Oh wait... don't tell her Foster Mom I said that!)

Roxy got to spend some quality time with the big guy himself.  I'm sure even Santa couldn't say 'no' to those big brown eyes!

And finally, this is Quinn...  He waited all day to get his turn in front of the camera!  But there was no lack of energy even after partying all afternoon!  I LOVE Puppy Energy!

GIANT SCHNAUZER RESCUE FUN DAY AT DEER CREEK ANIMAL HOSPITAL!

One of the main fundraising events for the Vally of the Sun Giant Schnauzer Rescue is their Annual Fun Day held at  Deer Creek Animal Hospital.  There were games, raffles, agility, a demonstration by a trainer, and lots more!  I had the opportunity to photograph some of these beautiful dogs today; lots of Schnauzers and so many others that came to take part in the festivities!  The weather couldn't have been nicer... and it's mid-December!  Ya gotta LOVE living in Arizona!

The mission of VSGSR is rescue Giant Schnauzers in need, provide medical care when necessary, and find foster care placements where these dogs can begin the process of finding a forever home.  If you're looking for a 'gentle giant' to fall totally in love with, please check out some of their foster dogs!  Their big brown eyes will MELT. YOUR. HEART!

Here are just a few of the dogs I had the chance to play with today!

This is Maggie...  Can she rock these antlers, or what??!

These cuties sat still for about 2 seconds before they began pulling on each other's scarves and chasing Christmas Ornaments!  Before they grow up to be "Giants"...they look like this!

And the tinest Reindeer...uh...Reindog of all...  This is Dillon and he's about the size of a Schnauzer's paw!

This little Frenchie is "Chunk"!  Isn't he 'regal' looking?  He was partying with the Schnauzers!

A SLIGHT DIVERSION FROM PET PHOTOGRAPHY!

I don't shoot people very often!  I'm asked about it alot, but animals are my passion and I usually stay pretty close to the furry, feathered, reptilian or hooved beasts!  But when Lora asked me to do some family photos for her I couldn't say no!  This family is just TOO. MUCH. FUN!!  

I knew we'd have a blast the minute she contacted me!  We have one of those friendships that has lasted through the years!  We don't have time to get together often, but when we do, it's so easy just to pick up where we left off.  It's like we've never missed a beat! 

And they didn't disappoint!  We literally laughed through the entire session!  Everyone just projected so much positive energy!  They were up for trying anything!  So, until I get through the many photos from that session... here is a sneak peek of what's to come!

So, thanks Lora G. and family!  It was sooooo much fun!

Is this family gorgeous, or what??

A Great Little Stocking Stuffer!

Check out this adorable little pup!  What a great stocking stuffer!  You can get it here!  I want this little guy to brighten up my desk!

Happy Monday, everyone!

PHOTOS FROM LAST WEEKEND'S NADAC TRIAL HAVE BEEN POSTED!

Finally!  The photos from Jumping Chollas NADAC Trial are posted on the website!  Go to:  http://www.barbdelve.com/ and click on "Client Images".  Please pass this information on to your friends...  I only got about 35 e-mail addresses last weekend to notify people when the pictures were posted!  Post it on Facebook, your discussion groups and your 'agility' network! 

I had so much fun looking at all your dog's sweet faces!  I hope you like the photos!

HOLIDAY MINI-SESSION! | Phoenix Pet Photographer

This special Holiday Mini-Session is being held on Sunday, Dec. 12 at AZ Dog Sports.  If you're not familiar with this great indoor dog gym this will be a great opportunity to come check it out and find out about the awesome classes they offer! 

We will have lots of fun collars, antlers and Santa hats available for the dogs to wear! Feel free to bring your own glitzy dog accessories for your pictures if you have them! 

There are only a limited number of time slots available so call today!  Appointments must be scheduled in advance by calling AZ Dog Sports at 602-237-6775.  

ONE DAY LEFT to order the VDSGR Agility Photos!

Don't forget that the photos from the Valle del Sol Golden Retriever Agility Trial (Oct. 31st) will automatically be removed from the website on December 1st!  Then photos from last weekends' Jumping Chollas Agility Trial will be posted!

A Weekend of Agility! | Phoenix Dog Photographer

I had a blast the last two days photographing the Jumping Chollas Agility Club NADAC Trial at Paradise Valley Park!  The weather was beautiful and the dogs were AWESOME!  It was a great way to work off some of that wonderful Thanksgiving Dinner!

Check out some of these talented dogs...

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

I hope everyone had a chance to take a little time to spend with those that are special in their lives.  I'm very thankful for the many gifts in my life... my family, my many animals and wonderful friends. 

We spent a lot of time talking about today's paper that was packed with ads and the fact that stores were opening at midnight and 2:00 a.m. for hoards of shoppers while I will be snuggled under my covers, and it made me even stronger in my resolution to spend this holiday creating memories.  Memories 'of and for' my family and friends.  Treasures that will last a lifetime and won't be discarded when the next 'greatest' thing comes along.  

I'm a very 'visual' person and when I look back through photo albums, sometimes the only way I remember events from my childhood is through those pictures. 

If creating memories is something that's important to you too, maybe we can help!  Dont' forget our own version of 'Black Friday/Cyber Monday'.  Purchase any Gift Certificate valued at $75 or more through our website on Nov. 26th or Nov. 29th and we'll add $25 to it's value!  You don't have to get out of bed at 2:00 a.m. and you'll end up with a gift that will be treasured forever!

And just because no post is complete without a picture...

Did someone say "TREATS" ???

 

Meet Levi... | Phoenix Pet Photograher

This little furball is soooo cute!  He ran, he played...and he instantly fell asleep!  Enjoy these little teasers, "Z" family!  I'll be finished shortly! 

After working on the last two pictures, I can hardly stay awake myself!  He's so deep into doggie dreamland!

BLACK FRIDAY / CYBER MONDAY SALE!

Everyone needs some help getting through the Holiday Season!  Hope this helps to make your shopping a little easier!  (Follow the link below the picture...)

Purchase your Gift Certificates HERE!!

Novice Photos Posted... | Arizona Agility Photographer

Yay!!  They're finally posted!  For those of you that missed the first part of this story, a website I was trying to upload the photos to actually deleted them from my hard drive.  Finally, with much work and persistance,we were able to recover them! 

So, if you're interested in the Novice photos from the Valle del Sol Agility Trial on Oct. 31, 2010, they're posted on the website now!  Find them at http://www.barbdelve.com/ and click on 'Client Images'.  This gallery will remain live until December 1st, at which time they will be taken down!

Thanks for your patience, everyone!

WHOOOOO-HOOOOO! | Arizona Agility Photographer

YES!!!  We have recovered the photos of the Novice Standard Group from the Valle del Sol Golden Retriever Agility Trial!  Forensic Photography ROCKS!!

I'm headed out of town for the weekend....They should all be posted by mid-day Tuesday!

Thank you to all of you that have hung in there waiting...(and any good karma you were sending this way!!)  Honestly, I didn't think they'd be able to get them back!!

So very happy to be wrong!

Say Awwwwwwwww! | Phoenix Cat Photographer

I'm sooooooo in love!  Okay, totally Smitten is more like it!  Can you believe how adorable this little girl is?  And check out those eyes...totally different colors!  She's 100% 'kitten'!  The world is her playground!  She attacks everything that moves!  Ohhhhhhh, little kitten... I SO want to keep you!

AZ Dog Sports | Phoenix Agility Photographer

Saturday was a perfect day for the Harvest Festival!  The weather was great! I was at AZ Dog Sports taking pictures and meeting LOTS of great people involved in the dog world! 

Layne and her crew did an awesome job at getting everything set up and organized.  The trainers demonstrated skills taught in their classes. 

There was an awesome Disc Dog demonstration...did you know dogs could FLY??  Stephanie at Cozy Critters was soooo much fun!  If you're in the market for a pet sitter, give her a call!  The Arizona Border Collie Rescue was there.  How could you resist making a donation to a dog that goes out and collects the money himself??  And on the bottom is Mason... This multi-talented dog is so well trained and he's so gentle!  His mom, Anabelle, is one of the trainers at AZ Dog Sports.

Are they having too much fun, or what?!  Massages were being given compliments of Pawsitive Touch

And look at the sweet little face above!  How could someone not want to take him home?  He was there with several of his friends at Home Fur Good Animal Rescue.  The pup on the right belongs to another one of the trainers at AZ Dog Sports! 

And then there was Sara, from Moke Ranch Agility.  She was showing how the Dartfish software works...  I don't totally understand it because it has to do with biometrics, and planes (no, not the flying kind!)...  planes that the dog and the handler move through.  But it totally analzyes how you run your dog.   Once you see where your handling errors are, you can correct them!  She and her husband are up in Cornville and do skills coaching, private agility instruction, and hold weekend workshops on their ranch!

Aside from that, we had a BLAST at our end of the gym!  It's such a small world... we found out we knew so many of the same people in a field TOTALLY unrelated to dogs!  You know how when you meet someone and you just know you could hang out together??  Well, she was one of those people!

VDSGR Agility Trial Images are UP!!

Images from the Valle del Sol Golden Retriever Agility Trail from Sunday, Oct. 31, 2010 are FINALLY posted! 

The good news... I had a week to go thru about 1200 images and create a new Shopping Cart site to hold that many images!  Let me just say...  I was NEVER meant to be a website designer! 

And then there is also VERY BAD NEWS...  The first shopping cart I tried to set up corrupted a segment of my hard drive and totally DESTROYED about 220 images.  Images people would have loved to see.  ALL the images from the NOVICE STANDARD course run last Sunday.  Images that took me a couple HOURS to shoot.  Images, sadly, that are probably gone forever.  I'm working with a forensic photographer that MAY be able to recover them.  I'm NOT optimistic...

So, for those of you that ran the Novice Standard course on 10/31...  I'm soooo sorry.  I know you were waiting to see your wonderful dogs flying through the course.  If, by any chance, we're able to recover the images, I'll let you know!  For now...all I can say is that I'm so sorry.  I will be having a 'conversation' with some people at the website that actually DELETED images off my hard drive.  To delete them off their site is fine...to actually go into my hard drive and delete them is inexcusable!

You can find them on my Website > Client Images > Agility Trials.  Or, you can click on the "Client Images" tab at the top of this blog.  I hope you enjoy the pictures of your FABULOUS dogs!

Arizona Dog Sports | Phoenix Dog Photographer

Everyone is invited to come out this weekend to the Harvest Festival, Saturday, Nov. 6th, from 12:00 - 4:00 p.m. at the shopping plaza directly across the street from Paradise Valley Mall.  I'll be at Arizona Dog Sports which is an awesome 3,000 s.f. indoor training facility located at 4848 E. Cactus Rd.  There will be Agility and Disc Dog demonstrations, Trainers on-site, and lots more!  I will be raffling off a FREE Pet Photography Session with a complimentary 8 x 10 print!  Come on out and find my table and introduce yourself!  And don't forget to bring your dog...  Among other events, they will have a chance to "bob for hotdogs"!

And since no post is complete without a photo... (or two!!)

Valle del Sol Golden Retriever Agility Trial | Phoenix Agility Photography

Sunday I was invited by Jumping Chollas to do some Agility Photography!  Squirt (my little Rodent Dog) and I compete in Agility, but it's been a long time since I've had a chance to photograph the sport!  The weather couldn't have been better!

For all of you that were in Ring 1 on Sunday, your pictures should be posted in about 10 days on the website...  http://www.barbdelve.com/.  Or, subscribe to the blog...  I'll post a note to you here as soon as the photos are up on the website! 

Check out some of these beautiful and talented dogs...

Two people got their Mach this weekend!  Congratulations...what an accomplishment!!
Left:  Barb with Splash.  Right:  Emily with Suki.

The 'Hoop' and the 'Table'

And last, but certainly not least...  This one's for my friend, Betsy!  This is her "baby", Nash!  Now, tell me...  Doesn't he look like he's having FUN ??!!!

Deer Creek Animal Hospital Open House | Phoenix Pet Photographer

This was such a fun weekend!  On Saturday, I got to meet some of the most awesome dogs during Deer Creek Animal Hospital's Open House and Halloween Party!  The costumes were amazing!  The staff did a wonderful job at planning, organizing and running this event! 

Look at these faces!

A family photo!

There was an agility demonstration by Jumping Chollas...

Even kitties had representation!  But like this big white lover-boy...everyone was SMILING!!

Thank you Deer Creek...for allowing me to be a part of your fun Halloween Party!

Halloween Party & Open House | Phoenix Pet Photographer

This Saturday I'm going to be at Deer Creek Animal Hospital's Halloween Party and Open House!  This promises to be a fun day of activities for kids and dogs alike!  There will be food, games, door prizes, agility and obedience demonstrations,  a behind-the-scenes-tour of the hospital and a Doggie/Owner Costume Contest! 

We'll be doing free dog photos and giving you an up-close look at those pups strutting their stuff in costumes!  October 30th, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. in their wonderful enclosed backyard behind the hospital...  I'll post some of my favorite photos next week!

Tasha | Cave Creek Pet Photographer

I had the chance to photograph this beautiful girl last year along with her brother, Bullwinkle.  Tragically, a few weeks ago she passed away suddenly and unexpectedly.  She was only four years old.  I had to wait to post this until her Mom had a chance to get over the initial shock.  She was such a sweet, sweet girl and she is missed sooooo much. 

Rest in Peace, sweet Natasha...

Meet the Rodent! | Cave Creek Pet Photographer

After three years of doing Pet Photography on a part-time basis, I finally decided it was time to make the leap to full time!  And since you made it to this blog you're probably wondering where the name "Rodent Dog" came from! 

This blog is named after the love of my life...my best friend...my heart!  'Squirt' is my little rescue dog that ran out in front of my car almost nine years ago now!  I had no intention of keeping him.  I would find his owner and life would be good!  Well, like many good plans, this one didn't quite work out the way I expected.  First of all, no one ever claimed him even though I had gone 'over and above' trying to find his owner.  So, I found him a home... with someone that already had six dogs!

I packed up his new leash and new bowls and put him in the car to take him to his NEW life with his NEW owner.  As we were backing down the driveway he put his head on the passenger-side seat, his butt up in the air (like the photo on the header of this blog) and looked at me with those big brown eyes.  And at that moment, my life changed!  I fell so totally in love!

So, long story short...(might be too late for that now!) he was laying in the tall grass one day with his chin on the ground and those huge ears in the air and a girlfriend looked over at him and said he looked like 'a giant rodent'!  It just stuck!  I've called him a Giant Rodent ever since!  And I mean that in only the most loveable way!