Sampson died in the summer of 2003. He was the best dog I have ever known. A large dog weighing in at 110 lbs. When I moved into my rural home he lived about a mile down the road and is owners often neglected him, letting him fend for himself. He essentially grew-up to be somewhat of a wild animal. One day he came by the house, I threw him a stick and he never left.
Sampson adopted me when he was about 7 years old. He did not leave my property until his owners said "take him, we don't want him". There were signs that he was an abused dog. He was always a perfect gentleman with the ladies, but men he did not like unless they were related to me.
Sampson and I spent many wonderful days in the wilderness. He was my shadow and faithful photo companion for 6 years. Occasionally, he would get whiff of something and go for 2-3 hour runs through the forests near Parry Sound, Ontario. He always returned unscathed. One day something wasn't right with him, as we began our daily walk, Sampson stopped after a few steps, turned, wanting to go back to the house. I knew we had just completed our last walk together. I took him to the vet where he was diagnosed with a large tumor in his abdomen. The next day Sampson died in his sleep at home. He was 13 years old. I had him cremated and scattered his ashes by a small lake, deep in the woods where we used to frequently walk.
I think it is a gorgeous portrait and a touching account. What a blessing for both of you that you two found each other.
05-01-2011, 08:19 PM
Scott Vincent
Andrew, Beautiful photo and touching story - thanks for sharing!!
05-01-2011, 08:43 PM
Christopher Miller
Beautiful image, Andrew. I love the vignette and toning. Sounds like Sampson was a very wonderful dog. Thanks for sharing his portrait and story! :S3:
05-01-2011, 09:15 PM
Steve Adkins
Wonderful story and image of Sampson, Andrew. A true companion. :S3:
05-01-2011, 10:05 PM
Maureen Allen
Great portrait of Sampson, Andrew. I'm sure this brings happy memories to you. Thanks for sharing.
05-02-2011, 12:26 AM
Judy Howle
I'm glad that you found each other. Smpson sounds like a wonderful companion. He looks very noble in your beautiful portrait!
05-02-2011, 08:25 AM
denise ippolito
Andrew, Such a touching story. I have tears rolling down my face. I can't believe anyone could abuse or neglect an animal. I am so glad he found you. Beautiful portrait and nice application of Nik.
05-02-2011, 12:31 PM
Roman Kurywczak
Hey Andrew,
Story and photo are perfect together. Great tribute to a wonderful friend!
05-02-2011, 03:14 PM
Brendan Dozier
Beautiful dog and wonderful story of friendship, Andrew. TFS
05-02-2011, 03:47 PM
Andrew McLachlan
Thanks to everyone for the kind words. I appreciate them very much!
05-02-2011, 06:16 PM
Paul Lagasi
I know how it feels, I lost my dog of 16 years 3 weeks ago...it sucks they have to be so short lived, finding a good one is tough...noble looking dog...
05-02-2011, 06:58 PM
Andrew McLachlan
Hi Paul, thanks for comments, much appreciated. Very sorry to hear that you lost your dog recently.
05-02-2011, 10:13 PM
Kerry Perkins
Andrew, lovely image and story to go with it. It is so sad to lose them, as they give unconditionally and firmly plant themselves in our hearts.
05-10-2011, 05:47 AM
Anita Bower
Beautiful portrait of this handsome dog. What a sweet story of your relationship.