Tara as Co-pilot

This exhibit ran from March 22 to July 3, 2025 and included about 73 photographs. This project documented the relationship of Tara, a small Blue Merle Australian Shepherd and myself over the last few years of her life. She came to me after helping two of her humans die. Our time was framed by running ahead of her physical pain while trying to live as fully as possible. While she helped me live through some of the hardest years of my life, it was my turn to help her die.

She was extremely smart, and truly was a co-pilot as many photographs reflect. In true shepherd fashion, she would herd me through the dark to and from the bathroom at night, gently touching each calf keeping me within the bounds of her safety, until we were back in bed.

Unlike Tara as co-pilot, my current dog companion, Walter, is more like a slightly drunk passenger on the plane, more endearing than annoying, and always fun. He had a few cameos in this project as I intentionally brought him into our lives before saying goodbye to Tara. A few photos in the collection included both of the dogs.

On February 16, 2024, Tara and I shared our final road trip to the beach. The following day, we said goodbye, and she was finally freed from her pain and suffering. She was an exquisite dog in every way day, including even her bossy attitude. She was a wonderful companion.

Many of the photos were noted with how many days she had left. Of course, we didn’t know it as the photos were taken only in the bittersweet after.

Here's a gallery of some of the photos that were exhibited.