episode 185: Kindness Is The Ways Of The Dog—A photographer dedicated to helping animals find their forever home.

Jen Hillenga joins Anitha to talk about how she combined her passion for dogs and her talent for photography to create not only a career but a way to help dogs find their forever homes.

She shares how her two rescue dogs, Rocco and Nala inspired her to leave the corporate world and pursue her love of photography, focusing the camera on dogs and their humans.

Jen talks about how a great photo can show a dog’s true personality and help them find a loving home.

Jen offers her photography services to many rescues. She was also the photographer for Isabel Klee, a well-known content creator, animal advocate and the bestselling author of DOGS, BOYS AND OTHER THINGS I’VE CRIED ABOUT. Jen had the privilege of taking Isabel’s author photo. As a dog lover, Isabel’s photo included her soul dog, Simon. Sadly, Simon passed away not long ago. Millions of people around the world, many of whom had never met Simon, shared their love and grief for Simon.  Jen honoured Simon’s life by offering a free studio session and 8×10 print to anyone who made a $100 donation to an animal rescue. Jen raised over $11,000 and is now busy fulfilling her promise.  

Such a lovely story of community and caring.

To learn more about Jen and her amazing photography, check out her website:

The Ways Of The Dog Website

As a thank you to Jen for sharing her story, Anitha donated to Rain or Shine Rescue. This non-profit cares for the most vulnerable dogs and cats, from seniors to animals with special needs to those requiring medical treatment. To learn more about this animal rescue, check out their website:

Rain or Shine Rescue

To hear the full episode, click here:

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