Pet photographer seeks local subjects

AN internationally acclaimed pet photographer is making her way to the Bellarine Peninsula and Geelong this week to continue an exciting national charity project.

Kerry Martin is on the road searching for canines to photograph to be part of her new portrait coffee table book Dog Tales of Australia 2: Pawtraits.

The book will raise money for Assistance Dogs Australia, a national non-profit providing fully-trained assistance dogs to people with mobility needs, autism and post-traumatic stress disorder.

The Australian Pet Photographer of the Year winner spent a short time on the Surf Coast this week, and will be on the Bellarine Peninsula and in Geelong over the next 10 days.

She is visiting Queenscliff, Point Lonsdale, Ocean Grove, Barwon Heads and Portarlington until Tuesday, February 25 and then Geelong and the You Yangs from Wednesday, February 26 to March 1.

Ms Martin encouraged local residents wanting to have their dog featured in the book to get in touch.

“We know that your pets are part of the family, someone you share adventures with and cuddle on difficult (and good) days. They are the heart and soul by your side that you can’t imagine your life without,” she said.

“We’re revisiting cherished spots and exploring uncharted territories, capturing the essence of dogs around Australia in the colourful and diverse landscapes we travel through in this beautiful country.

“We’re ‘su-paw’ excited to be on the road again, this time supporting Assistance Dogs Australia and photographing even more gorgeous dogs than last time.”

A sum of $100 from each photo and a portion of artwork sales will go directly to Assistance Dogs Australia.

For a detailed local itinerary, head to puppytales.com.au/puppy-tales-on-the-road .