Dogs touch our lives in ways we can’t predict. Sadie the Chow mix is not only the inspiration for her family business, she’s also the center of their life. Nashville pet photographer, Mandy Whitley, photographed Sadie and her family.
From Mandy: “Kayla and Eric, along with their sweet rescue pup Sadie, run Winks & Whiskers – a pet apparel company for dog owners. Their shirts are the softest ever, and they donate 10% of every sale to a dog focused charity. Sadie is an 8-year-old Chow mix that they adopted when she was five. They love to hike together, and she loves treats, but she is not a fan of drones!”
From Kayla: “We were newbies to adopting a pet, so we just Googled our local dog shelter which at the time was Franklin County Dog Shelter and went to ‘look’ for a dog to call family.
Eric had his eye on a young 1-year-old dog named Jim for a bit, but as soon as I saw Sadie in her featured spot in the shelter, I knew she was the one for us.
I talked with Eric about how Sadie was missing her left eye and was five years old. So she might not have as good of odds at getting adopted as some others in the shelter. Eric said goodbye to young Jim. Because when he saw Sadie and I look at each other, he knew it too; we were meant to be hers.
It is also kind of ironic since Sadie was surrendered because her former owners were going on a long trip. And because of Sadie’s impact on our lives, we’ve made a business, and have a full-time traveling lifestyle all centered around her.”
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About Mandy Whitley Photography: Based in Nashville, Tennessee, Mandy specializes in photography for pets and their people.
Sweet Purrfections says
So happy to hear that Sadie found a wonderful forever home
Kristin Cook says
Wow! That is so cool that they ended up with Sadie and that now they travel and have her with them! So sweet!
Cassie says
Love these photos. Such a sweet story!
Jasmine Hewitt says
i love adoption stories like this!
Veronika says
These are beautiful pictures! Great dress by the way.
Alix Maza says
What an adorable story! The shirts look super cozy.
Danielle @ A Sprinkle of Joy says
Awww, she is such a sweetie!
Melissa says
It seems so odd to give up your pet because you’re going on a trip. I’m glad Sadie found her forever family!
Beth says
I completely agree with that, but I guess I don’t know their circumstances. I’m glad that Sadie found her perfect family!
Tami Sullivan says
What an inspiring article. This dog is adorable.
Irene McHugh says
With her left eye missing, Sadie does look like she’s winking at you! What great people to recognize the instant attraction between Sadie and Kayla, and then build an entire business around their sweet girl.
The Dash Kitten Crew says
These pictures are totally magical. Such amazing people and Sadie the wonderful dog.
* Smiles happily *
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ERin the Cat (Princess) says
Having commitment to ones companions can bring great rewards and fun times. So sad her previous owns couldn’t take her with them, but so glad she has a perfect home with you.
Toodle pips and purrs
ERin