In the heart of the Otways you'll find Countrywide Cottages - the perfect getaway for dog lovers. Turn off your phone and prepare to fully relax - with bushwalks at your doorstep, bonfires in the front yard, and yabbies in the dam. They are more than just “pet-friendly” here - the lovely team at Countrywide Cottages are true pet lovers. They have fully fenced yards, dog beds, blankets, bowls and even home-made dog treats in every cottage.

I've been photographing dogs at Countrywide Cottages for over a decade and this was actually my second time photographing Michelle & Brian’s furry family during a stay! I had previously photographed Max and Peppa years ago, so it felt like a full circle moment to see their family grow with Kai now in the mix. Peppa and Max might be a little older and perhaps a tad slower, but trust me, they still have that spunky spirit that makes them incredibly photogenic. Capturing their personalities was not just about snapping their adorable faces; it was also about celebrating the journey they've all taken together as a family.

One of the highlights for me was seeing how far Kai had come. Michelle and Brian put in a lot of hard work with a trainer to help their reactive rescue dog feel comfortable. At first, we were discussing muzzle options, but by the time we were ready to start shooting, Kai was relaxed enough to go without one, just on a leash. It was so heartwarming to witness him fitting in with the family so well.