Meet Nelson: The Shelter Dog Who Stole My Heart
Meet Nelson
Because every dog deserves to be remembered.
There are some dogs who speak straight to your heart the moment you meet them. Nelson was one of those dogs.
A longtime resident of the Carteret County Humane Society, Nelson had the kind of presence that made you pause. Quiet and steady, with soft eyes and a little gray around the muzzle, he wasn’t the dog who barked for attention or jumped at the gate. He simply waited—and hoped.
When I visited the shelter for a round of adoptable dog portraits, I was immediately drawn to him. Nelson didn’t beg for the camera. He just was. Calm. Grounded. And absolutely deserving of love.
Telling Nelson’s Story Through Images
I sat with Nelson for a while before we started taking photos. I always give dogs time to settle, especially the ones who’ve been waiting the longest. When we finally began, I knew we were capturing something important—not just what Nelson looks like, but who he is.
🎥 Watch Nelson’s Feature Video:
📸 A Few of My Favorite Portraits:
These images were never about perfection. They were about truth. Nelson’s truth. His patience. His hope. His gentle spirit.
Why This Work Matters
Dogs like Nelson are easy to miss in a shelter setting. But with the right image, their personality has a chance to shine. Through my ongoing partnership with the Carteret County Humane Society, we’re giving overlooked dogs a chance to be seen.
Professional portraits can mean the difference between being passed by—or finally going home.
Here’s How You Can Help:
Adopt or foster if you’re able—especially the seniors and the quiet ones.
Sponsor a session to help another long-timer like Nelson get noticed.
Support Carteret County Humane Society with a donation or volunteer time.
Every dog has a story worth telling. Nelson reminded me of that—and I hope he reminds you, too.
Know a dog who deserves to be seen? Whether it’s a foster pup, a longtime shelter resident, or your own heart dog—let’s tell their story.
📩 Get in touch here