Andrea Domjan is a gifted artist who expresses herself through stunning photographs, much like other professionals in her field. However, some narratives are more impactful than others, and the story of her sister-in-law Dori and her pet dog Alf is one such story. Although it may not be the type of project that most photographers would seek out, we are grateful that Domjan has taken the initiative to share Dori and Alf’s story with us.
Meet Alf, a lovable Bullmastiff who has recently been diagnosed with a life-threatening form of cancer. Domjan, a photographer, was approached by Dori to capture some special moments of her and Alf together as a way of commemorating his life. Despite the heartbreaking news, Domjan knew that these photos would be a beautiful tribute to Alf as he crosses the rainbow bridge. Sadly, cancer affects around 50% of dogs at some point in their lives, making Alf’s story a touching reminder of how precious our time with our furry friends truly is.
Over time, Dori has saved numerous Bullmastiffs from animal shelters, and their presence has greatly enriched her life. Specifically, she tends to rescue older or disabled dogs, providing them with a comfortable home for the remainder of their lives. Her friend Domjan aimed to capture the unique bond between Dori and her Bullmastiff Alf, highlighting their shared activities such as leisurely walks, admiring the surroundings, and cruising in Dori’s convertible.
It’s been quite a while since Alf left us. In fact, Dori bid her final goodbyes to him mere weeks after their precious photoshoot. Nevertheless, Domjan’s pictures will always hold a special place in Dori’s heart, as well as ours. We believe that Dori and Alf’s tale can offer solace and motivation to other dog owners who are dealing with cancer-stricken pets. We’re convinced that these photographs have aided Dori in recovering from the pain of losing her beloved companion.
When Domjan was asked about how her art had assisted Dori, she responded, “These photos have helped her immensely because they allow her to focus solely on the beautiful memories they shared. Like their walks together or just sitting together, taking in the breathtaking scenery around them. Even though she could see the signs of illness in Alf’s eyes, what she remembers most is how perfectly they melded together and how significant Alf was in her life. He was her better half.”
Dori used to believe that her dog’s cancer was her own fault, thinking that she had mistreated him or not given him enough love. But she later discovered that cancer was a genetic issue in her dog’s family, with several members already having passed away from it. Dori also realized that the food and lifestyle provided to dogs can play a significant role in their health. Since then, she has been cautious about what she feeds her pets and prefers BARF raw feeding. She now takes every possible measure to prevent illnesses and firmly believes that beating cancer is possible. Dori has witnessed several dogs who have survived cancer and draws inspiration from them.
According to Dori, it’s crucial to put up a fight against any illness that our furry friends may face. However, it’s equally essential to know when to let go and stop fighting. As difficult as it may be, bidding farewell to our beloved pets or witnessing them struggle with sickness is a part of life. Nevertheless, we can always be there for them, just as they are always there for us. Our support and love will continue to exist even after their physical departure.
As the writer, I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to Andrea Domjan and Dori for sharing the touching story of Alf with us here at iHeartDogs. As a fellow dog owner whose oldest Corgi is currently battling lymphoma, I can relate to the challenges that come with fighting cancer. It is my sincere hope that this story serves as a powerful reminder to all our readers that we are not alone in this struggle. Together, we can find comfort and strength in our shared experiences, supporting one another through the tears and heartache, all united by our undying love for our furry companions.
