Photographer Zhenia Bulawka and her boyfriend Christian had three dogs, one of which was in the final stages of cancer.
The couple decided to give the rescued 11-year-old pit bull, named ‘Mr. Dukes’, the vacation of his life before he passed away.
As their furry friend’s favorite pastime was swimming in their family pool, they chose to go on a beach trip at Assateague, Maryland.
This was also extra special as it would be Mr. Dukes’ first time seeing the ocean.
He passed away a month later after the trip.
Bulawka wrote: “Dukes was my best friend. He was also my muse, as his passion for life served as a constant source of inspiration to me. I could never tire of photographing him. Since his passing, I’ve been told numerous times ‘How lucky Dukes was to have me.’ But in fact, it was me who was so lucky to have him. He was the smartest, funniest, most loyal, incredibly strong, yet equally sensitive dog—all wrapped into one perfect pittie package. He changed my life and I will miss him forever.”
View some photos below and head on over here to read the tribute in its entirety.
[via PetaPixel, images via Zhenia Bulawka]