Mandy Pierce photographs dogs who have terminal illnesses and shares the results on TikTok
In the picturesque town of Elizabeth City, North Carolina, a warm-hearted photographer named Mandy Pierce is creating heartfelt memories for pet owners with terminally ill dogs through touching, end-of-life photoshoots.
Mandy, who is 34 years old, juggles her time between working at an agricultural company and holding a camera, capturing moments that matter the most. Although her primary work is mixing fertilizer and helping customers with their seeds, her true passion lies in photography.
“I’ve always loved taking photos, but it wasn’t until last year that I decided to take this hobby seriously,” Mandy shared.
That’s when she launched a side venture in lifestyle photography and joined The Tilly Project — a network dedicated to providing end-of-life pet photography and supporting those grieving the loss of their furry friends.
Through her involvement with The Tilly Project, Mandy offers discounted photoshoots to pet owners, focusing on capturing their dog’s personality and joyful moments during their final days.
“Initially, I was just photographing my own dog. Then I thought, why not extend this to help others in need?” she said.
When someone books a session with Mandy, they fill out a questionnaire that covers details about their dog, including their name, age, interests, and any terminal diagnosis they may have.
“I like to be prepared. I also suggest locations where the dog feels most comfortable, like their own home or a favorite park,” Mandy added.
During these sessions, Mandy lets the pet and owner interact naturally, capturing candid shots that highlight special features, like floppy ears or unique paws. She also encourages including favorite toys or even special treats—like a McDonald’s Happy Meal or a Starbucks pup cup—making these sessions a joyful celebration of life.
The emotional and heartfelt photos often go viral on TikTok, with many viewers expressing their emotional responses and appreciation for the touching tributes.
One noteworthy video shared on TikTok features a series of photographs of a 16-year-old Labrador Retriever named Scout, who had lived with a veteran since he was two years old. Scout loyally stayed by his owner’s side until the very end.
“He served his owner faithfully for 14 years and was right there with him at the end,” Mandy recalled.
While the editing process can be emotionally challenging, Mandy emphasizes that the photoshoots are meant to be fun and celebratory.
“It’s really a celebration of their lives,” she said warmly.
