Cat Hendriks has a love for dogs.
So much so that she's dedicated her life to telling stories of local pups through the telephoto lens.
Now, the Coquitlam resident is hoping to give back in honour of the dogs she and her family rescued over the years by raising funds this week.
Friday (May 20) is also known as National Rescue Dog Day.
To recognize the event, Hendriks says she'll donate 50 per cent of all the funds to local animal rescue shelter of the subject's choosing from every session booked that day.
According to Hendriks' website, Flare Photography, rescue shelters set to benefit include the BC SPCA, Endless Pawsabilities and Flying Dogs Canada.
In a statement to the Tri-City News, she calls it a "passion project" stemming from heartbreak of her own.
Karma, one of her rescue dogs "crossed over the rainbow bridge in Summer 2020, leaving her family devastated," a release reads.
"Since then they have adopted a puppy from Northern Manitoba, Maggie, who has helped heal their hearts and brings them joy every day."
Hendriks says she now wants to give back by giving the community a chance to contribute to the cause through dog-portrait sessions.
As well, she's also set to release a new photobook in July complete with adoption stories, called Rescue Tales, in hopes of the public can understand what it takes to love and care for a rescued pooch.
Some of the proceeds from the sales of the book will also be earmarked for local shelters.
Dog owners interested in participating in the fundraiser is encouraged to contact Hendriks via Flare Photography.
