The Last Walk

Here is another illustration I drew forSlate Magazine’s Book Review. The article is about modern practices and customs surrounding pet death. Did you know there are hospice type facilities that tend to dying dogs? I myself grew up in a house (and yard) full of pets. I’ve had to be there stroking Murphy, an australian shepherd, after she was run over by a truck. With wounds too serious to survive, the country vet paid a house call to put her down. I’ve heard similar stories from my father and grandparents. The only difference is that they had to use a shot-gun.

Needless to say, dealing with the death of a pet is a tricky subject and this assignment required a delicate touch. I drew several sketches that were much too sad.

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But finally I settled on something just a little more clinical – and much warmer.

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