BAD KREUZNACH PET PHOTOGRAPHY

Nestled in the picturesque Nahe-Glan Valley in Germany, you’ll find the village of Raumbach. It is here that dogs and their humans gather to celebrate the annual "Wuffnachtsmarkt" (Dog Christmas Market). The Wuffnachtsmarkt has become a cherished tradition for the entire community, with stalls offering a variety of dog treats, toys, and accessories, plus as fun activities for dogs and their owners. The neighboring towns, like Meisenheim and Bad Kreuznach, also eagerly participate in this heartwarming event.

In 2023, Lola Dhonau joined professional photographers around the globe to make a difference for pets in need with 'Tails of the World'. This unique collaborative project celebrates dogs with an annual coffee table book and our latest volume has raised over $65,000 for animal rescue!

Lola raised US$1120 for Wildtierhilfe Schäfer e.V. with shoots that featured ten different locations all around the region.
Of course, dog loving Raumbach village was featured. Next were the heathlands of Wahner Heide, then onto Staudernheim with its rolling hills and vineyards. Pepper posed on the sand dunes of Speyer, a natural oasis right in the heart of the city. Emil explored the abandoned city of Pferdsfeld and Bella relaxed in the lush Schlosspark that surrounds Bad Kreuznach Castle. In the same city, you’ll find Roseninsel, or Rose Island, accessible only by bridge and adorned with rose gardens. There was the idyllic village of Nussbaum, then onto Offenbach am Main with its thriving arts scene. Finally was Mathilda in the historical, cobblestoned town of Meisenheim.

William

Introducing William, the charming and utterly adorable white Chihuahua, who is often regarded as the world's most stunning Chi. With his striking appearance and endearing personality, he effortlessly steals the hearts of everyone he meets. William's captivating presence, combined with his affectionate nature, makes him a truly special and beloved companion, bringing joy and happiness to those lucky enough to have him in their lives.

Raumbach, a tranquil village nestled in the Hunsrück region of Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany, comes alive during the holiday season with its delightful "Wuffnachtsmarkt" or Dog Christmas Market. This heartwarming event brings together locals and visitors, creating a festive atmosphere filled with joy and camaraderie. With stalls offering treats, toys, and accessories for furry friends, the Wuffnachtsmarkt exemplifies Raumbach's warm and inclusive community spirit, making it a cherished destination for both two-legged and four-legged attendees.

Spiky

Meet Spiky, the lovable Pug who has stolen the hearts of everyone around him. With his adorable wrinkled face and expressive eyes, he exudes charm and brings a smile to anyone who crosses his path. Spiky's playful nature and boundless energy make every day an adventure, and his mischievous antics have a way of brightening even the gloomiest of days. Whether he's snuggling up for a cuddle session or zooming around the house with his tail wagging, Spiky's loving and affectionate personality shines through, making him the perfect furry companion for endless love and laughter.

Wahner Heide is a vast and captivating nature reserve located in the state of North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany. This unique heathland offers visitors a stunning mosaic of landscapes, including expansive heath areas, woodlands, and tranquil lakes, providing a haven for diverse flora and fauna to thrive.

Nirvana

Meet Nirvana, the adorable Tan Havanese puppy, born in 2023. Overflowing with sweetness and charm, this little ball of energy is simply irresistible. Nirvana's playful and lively nature adds an extra dose of joy to every moment. As a natural in front of the camera, she knows how to strike the perfect pose, captivating hearts with her adorable expressions. Her owner can't help but be enchanted by her lovable personality, and together, they share an unbreakable bond filled with endless love and laughter. Nirvana's zest for life and undeniable cuteness make her a true delight to be around, bringing smiles wherever she goes.

Staudernheim is a charming town nestled in the picturesque Nahe Valley, surrounded by beautiful vineyards and rolling hills in the Bad Kreuznach district of Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany. Known for its scenic landscapes and relaxed ambiance, it offers a delightful escape for visitors seeking a tranquil retreat.

Pepper

Introducing Pepper, the delightful Corgi with an insatiable love for special treats. Her adorable antics and unwavering enthusiasm make her the perfect candidate for any treat-based training. And with a unique fondness for pine cones, Pepper's playful spirit is sure to bring joy and laughter to anyone lucky enough to share in her delightful company.

Discover the Sand Dunes of Speyer, a captivating natural oasis right in the heart of the city. This unique landscape offers visitors an unexpected contrast to the city's historical splendor and invites them to unwind and engage in outdoor activities. Experience the breathtaking beauty of the sand dunes and savor a relaxing escape in this special natural setting.

Emil

Meet Emil, the lively Bernese Mountain Dog with a fluffy tail and an abundance of energy. Born in 2021, he adores frolicking and wiggling around, bringing joy and laughter wherever he goes.

Pferdsfeld, a former village in the Hunsrück region of Rheinland-Pfalz, was abandoned around 1980 due to its close proximity to the NATO airfield at Pferdsfeld. Today, it belongs to the city of Bad Sobernheim, with only a few structures remaining as a testament to its rich history.

Bella

Meet Bella, the brave and resilient former breeding dog from Hungary. Despite enduring many hardships in her past, Bella's spirit remains unwavering, shining through as a testament to her incredible strength. With a heart full of love and kindness, she has transformed into a remarkable and affectionate soul. Bella's journey to finding a loving home is an inspiring tale of courage and hope, touching the hearts of all who have the privilege of knowing her.

The Schlosspark in Bad Kreuznach is a picturesque park surrounding the historic Bad Kreuznach Castle. With lush greenery, beautiful flower beds, and a tranquil atmosphere, it offers a perfect setting for leisurely strolls and relaxation in the heart of the city.

Emil

Introducing Emil, the exuberant 1.5-year-old Rhodesian Ridgeback who refuses to sit still! With boundless energy and a zest for life, Emil's favorite pastime is embarking on exciting adventures with his inseparable owner. They complement each other perfectly, akin to an old married couple, forming an unbreakable bond that is evident to anyone they encounter. Whether it's exploring new places together or simply enjoying lazy moments on the couch, Emil and his owner are a dynamic team, cherishing every moment of their shared journey.

Bad Kreuznach's Roseninsel, also known as Rose Island, is a charming and idyllic retreat nestled in the heart of the Nahe River. Accessible by a romantic bridge, this enchanting island is a haven for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful escape. Adorned with vibrant rose gardens, winding pathways, and cozy benches, Roseninsel offers a serene atmosphere, making it a perfect spot to unwind, admire the blooming roses, and enjoy picturesque views of the river flowing gently by.

Miles

Meet Miles, the remarkable Border Collie, whose friendly demeanor instantly wins hearts. Not only does Miles charm everyone he meets, but he also possesses a deep appreciation for nature, making every outdoor adventure a delightful experience for all involved. His warm and inviting personality, combined with his love for the great outdoors, make him an exceptional companion for any adventure-loving soul.

Nussbaum is a charming village located in the beautiful region of Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany. Surrounded by lush greenery and peaceful landscapes, it offers a serene and idyllic setting for residents and visitors alike, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a tranquil escape.

Nugget

Allow me to introduce you to Nugget, the lovable Corgi with a heart of gold. With a clever, mischievous, and spirited personality, she embodies all the classic traits of a Corgi. Nugget's playful antics and undeniable charm make her the resident clown, leaving smiles on the faces of everyone she meets. Despite her occasional diva moments, she always manages to win hearts with her insatiable appetite for both food and affection. This little bundle of joy brings happiness wherever she goes, making her an irresistible and utterly endearing companion for all.

Offenbach am Main is a vibrant city in the state of Hesse, Germany, known for its cultural diversity, thriving arts scene, and picturesque riverfront. It is also home to the Wildtierhilfe (Wildlife Aid) organization, with which I collaborate, dedicated to the protection and rehabilitation of wildlife in the region.

Mathilda

Mathilda is a 4-month-old Miniature Australian Shepherd with boundless energy and undeniable charm. Initially shy and occasionally excitable, she quickly overcomes her hesitations to reveal her inner supermodel, captivating everyone with her adorable and endearing presence."

Meisenheim, a picturesque town nestled in the enchanting Nahe-Glan Valley, is a true gem with its well-preserved medieval architecture, charming half-timbered houses, and cobblestone streets. Steeped in history and surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, Meisenheim offers a delightful blend of old-world charm and modern amenities, making it a captivating destination for locals and visitors alike.

All images are shared here with the artist’s permission

ABOUT WILDTIERHILFE SCHÄFER E.V.

Tanja Schäfer and Tamara Gruhn are two highly experienced wildlife caretakers. In 2014, Tanja Schäfer founded Wildtierhilfe Schäfer e.V., and since 2018, her daughter has joined the team, strengthening their efforts. With unwavering dedication, Tanja, Tamara, and their team have been committed to protecting and caring for wild animals for many years. Tanja Schäfer emphasizes the increasing importance of preserving nature and its inhabitants in our modern society. Their organization operates a professional wildlife care center, rescuing and rehabilitating injured or sick animals, and releasing them back into their natural habitats whenever possible. The primary focus lies in nurturing and treating these animals as naturally as possible. They strive to reintegrate the creatures into their original environments once they have recovered. Additionally, their charity conducts extensive educational outreach about conservation and the threats posed to wildlife by human activities. Tanja and Tamara share not only their extensive experience in handling animals but also a common dream: a world where wild animals thrive. Since its inception, the organization continually expands its range of services at all levels of wildlife care. Their relentless efforts aim to enable animals to live safely and undisturbed in their natural habitats through guidance, feeding, and care. Moreover, they volunteer their time to educate and train others, such as firefighters, about the specific needs and peculiarities of different wild species, allowing many people to provide assistance and first aid to injured or stranded animals.

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@wildtierhilfe_schaefer

ABOUT THE PHOTOGRAPHER

*My faithful dog Raksha was my original inspiration to specialize in dog photography. I love to photograph all animals outside, in their natural environment - where they can simply be themselves.*
I am an animal welfare activist. This means that I am not only passionate about capturing the beauty of animals with my camera, but also about actively advocating for their rights. I feel so lucky to be able to combine these two passions, and to be able to create unforgettable memories for my clients.

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Author: Caitlin J. McColl

Caitlin J. McColl is the multi-award winning artist behind Ragamuffin Pet Photography, author of five dog-filled books and founder of the Tails of the World Collective. She lives in Melbourne, Australia with her husband, two boys and a scruffy family of rescued animals. She’s a bit of an introvert, a lot of a dork, and so very passionate about making a difference for pets in need.

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