Chicago Pet Photographer: Sporty The Dog

Sporty, a 12-year-old Golden Retriever, is a Chicago hero and Instagram legend.  This independent spirit is so friendly and outgoing that he carries his own leash while walking busy Chicago streets with David, his human, much to the delight of the locals.  Sporty’s self-walking was featured on The Dodo and, in an instant, captured hearts everywhere, including mine.  A dog that walked himself made everyone smile, and Sporty loved meeting new people so much on his walks he became known as Chicago’s Furry Landmark.

Sporty’s declining health and fight against large cell lymphoma was documented by David on Instagram and followed by thousands.  Unfortunately, the world lost Sporty, and David, who just wanted to share his happy dog with the world, lost his best friend.  Here are some photographs of David and Sporty on one of their final walks together.  Thank you so much for sharing your story with me.

 

7 comments
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  • JasminNovember 15, 2019 - 5:49 pm

    We love you Sporty ReplyCancel

  • KellieNovember 15, 2019 - 8:31 pm

    You’ll never be forgotten Sporty, we love you!ReplyCancel

  • JenniferNovember 16, 2019 - 2:45 am

    Thank you for being able to capture the love David had for Sporty and sharing it with the rest of the world ReplyCancel

  • JenniferNovember 16, 2019 - 2:46 am

    Thank you for being able to capture the love David has for SportyReplyCancel

  • David CusicNovember 16, 2019 - 5:51 am

    My darling girl… what a love story! This is among your best work and I’m so proud of you. Please tell David our thoughts are with him. Sporty obviously graced him AND Chicago. I love you… Dad.ReplyCancel

  • BenNovember 16, 2019 - 5:08 pm

    We love you sporty!  🙁ReplyCancel

  • Robin waringNovember 19, 2019 - 3:28 am

    Love from a dog is super special & then they become angels ReplyCancel

Chicago Pet Photographer

Get ready with me—Chicago pet photographer & animal communicator edition.

My mornings start with movement, intention—and coffee.Because every day, I show up for animals.The ones waiting for a home.And the ones already part of your family.

This is how I begin.With purpose. With heart.And a whole lot of love for the animals who trust me to tell their story.

Giving animals a voice—through connection and story.

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“Did she wait for me before she passed?”
It’s one of the most heart-wrenching questions I receive.
And often, the answer brings unexpected peace.
As an animal communicator in Chicago, I help grieving pet parents reconnect—because love doesn’t disappear. It evolves.
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No fake smiles. No awkward posing. Just real moments, beautifully captured.
At Candice C. Cusic Photography, we believe your family portraits should feel like you—not like a chore. Let your kids be kids, laugh out loud, and make memories while I quietly capture the love in between.
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Behind every perfect pet portrait is a little chaos, a lot of love, and some serious magic.
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Hiding, biting, avoiding affection—your cat might be trying to tell you something.
In a session, I translate the “why” behind their actions so you can respond with confidence and compassion.
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At Candice C. Cusic Photography, we don’t just take pet portraits—we capture the heart of your relationship. Based in downtown Chicago, we specialize in authentic, Moment-Driven™ photography that shows your pet’s true personality and the deep bond you share.
Whether at home or in our stunning West Town studio, each session is tailored to celebrate your pet’s unique story.
📸 Looking for a deeper connection? Add an animal communication reading to your session for an unforgettable experience.
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