2 December, 2021

Mugg shots raise funds for less-pampered pooches

A beloved rescue dog has inspired a fundraising idea that will result in dozens of pampered pets being immortalised for Christmas, all while helping less fortunate animals.

Devonport photographer Kathryn Nobbs has teamed up with dog groomer Barbara Tubby to offer dog portraits, with the fee going to dog charities. Owners get keepsake images – Santa hat and tinsel trimming optional.

“It’s a lovely idea,” says Tubby. Nobbs is volunteering her time on Mondays and Thursdays to photograph dogs until 20 December and also to edit the images. “Kathryn’s dog Ramsey is from rescue, so she’s very much into it.”

Nobbs says she came up with the idea when her own work dropped off in lockdown with its social-distancing requirements. “With the spare time I thought what could I do to give back to the community.”

From walking Ramsey – a year-old huntaway who was part of an unwanted litter at risk of being shot by a South Auckland farmer – she also knew there were plenty of loved dogs locally.

Nobbs contacted Tubby who offered her venue – the garden in Grove Rd, where she has a studio for her Short Bark and Sides business.

So far around 70 bookings have been made, with a few of the $10 sessions left. Three digital photographs will be sent to pet owners, with the option of paying for prints at $7 each, all to help Longacre Animal Haven and the Saving Hope Foundation.

Tubby already runs an ongoing fundraiser as part of her business, donating $10 from a standalone nail-clipping service. With money already waiting in the kitty from that, the women will easily raise more than $1000. This tally will be further boosted by other local people offering items to be sold to photo-shoot attendees.

Among them is Nicole Birch of Ivy & Birch florist who is making Christmas wreaths, Nicky Chamberlain who has crocheted coasters as cute stocking fillers and potter Ann O’Sullivan who has turned coffee mugs. Ecology & Co non-alcohol drinks are also on offer.

With Christmas grooming bookings already heavily subscribed, Tubby has been juggling calls from owners wishing to rearrange appointments to coincide with photo-shoot times.

Nobbs says she is looking forward to the challenge of ensuring each dog looks its best, whether freshly clean and clipped or brought in off the beach. Although she has taken plenty of photographs during regular dog walks at Fort Takapuna, some posted on the Dogs of Devonport Facebook page, this assignment will be testing. “One woman is bringing four dogs,” she says.

Skills from another of her passions, bird photography, should help. “They never sit still,” says Nobbs.

• To book a dog portrait, text Kathryn Nobbs Photography 027 528 4566 (bookings essential).

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