Jake | January 2011. Photo by: Johnny Ortez-Tibbels ©

I’m a dachshund photographer and artist. I only photograph dachshunds and use those original images to create photo art that celebrates the dachshund form and personality. However, every artist will make certain concessions from time to time, as I have done. Jake the doxie-mix is one of the few non-purebred dachshunds I have photographed, and not only did I photograph him and his sister Kaia but he is featured on the cover of my book and masthead of my website.

Jake and his sister hold a special place in my heart, because in 2011 when I photographed 100+ dachshunds in 26 weeks it all started with one pair – Jake and Kaia. They were the very first dachshunds I photographed when my book 102 Dachshunds was not even a realized idea but something back in my subconsciousness.

Moreover, Jake is special to me because he was the first “dachshund” with whom I got a first-hand up-and-close look at the notorious back surgery, IVDD disease and recovery process. Jake met his humans 6 years ago today at a local adoption fair. I personally couldn’t imagine a finer dog, and the world is better because he is in it.  Happy Adopt-a-versary Jake!  May there be many more returns.

Jake | January 2011. Photo by: Johnny Ortez-Tibbels ©

Rufus & Jake | January 2011. Photo by: Johnny Ortez-Tibbels ©