Why I Draw Pets (and Why It Never Gets Old)
Where It All Began
One of my earliest memories of drawing is sitting on the floor as a child, sketching my chocolate Labrador, Sasha. She was patient and gentle, always by my side. I remember trying to capture the shine of her fur, the soft curve of her nose, and the way her ears flopped when she moved. I did not know it then, but those quiet moments were where it all began.
Drawing her felt natural, comforting, and full of joy. It was never just about getting the details right. It was about holding on to how she made me feel. That same feeling has never left me.
Finding Calm in the Lines
Now, years later, drawing remains the way I switch off. Whenever life feels noisy, I return to my pencils. The simple rhythm of shading and sketching brings calm, clarity and focus.
There is something meditative about it. Each portrait begins as soft lines and blank paper, then slowly transforms into something familiar and alive. Every whisker, every fold of fur, every spark in their eyes builds a connection. It is quiet work, but deeply rewarding.
Take a look at Nose in the Daisies.
Capturing Personality on Paper
I love the challenge of capturing what makes each pet unique. Their expressions, their quirks, the way their personality shines from the paper. Some are dignified, others playful. Some sit proudly, others tilt their heads or stick their tongues out, just like Buster, my sister’s cheeky Sprollie.
Every pet has a story, and my goal is to tell it through pencil lines. When I draw, I am not only creating a likeness, I am capturing love.
Take a look at Sprollie Mischief.
The Joy of Commissions
When I work on custom commissions, I feel truly honoured to be part of moments that matter. I love knowing that a portrait will soon be unwrapped as a surprise, that it will make someone smile or even cry happy tears.
One of my favourite parts of this job is hearing from clients after they have gifted a portrait. Messages like this one mean the world:
“Hannah’s pet portraits are brilliant. I’ve used her for a couple of family birthdays and will definitely be back in touch. All the pictures are so life like, you can see her incredible attention to detail and how talented she is. Hannah is always so responsive and happy to give advice so your picture is the best it can be. Thank you for the brilliant drawings of Winnie and Marnie.”
Rachel, April 2025, Glasgow
Knowing I have helped create a moment of joy, a keepsake that will be treasured, is something I will never take for granted.
Take a look at my reviews from clients.
Creating Just for the Love of It
Alongside commissions, I also create original pieces inspired by the quiet beauty of everyday life with pets. One of my favourites, Fireplace Companion, celebrates the comfort of home with a sleek black cat resting in front of a glowing fire, a glass of red wine beside it.
Warm, inviting and full of personality, it captures everything I love about art and animals. That sense of stillness, comfort and connection.
Take a look at Fireplace Companion.
Why It Never Gets Old
Every time I start a new drawing, I feel that same spark I did as a child. Each portrait is different, each story unique, each reaction deeply personal. Whether I am sketching a playful puppy or a regal cat, I still feel that mix of calm and excitement that reminds me why I do what I do.
I draw pets because I love them. Because they make us laugh, comfort us when we need it, and fill our lives with love. And because capturing that love in art will never stop feeling special.
If you would like to commission a bespoke portrait, I would love to create something meaningful for you or someone you love. Each piece is hand-drawn in my Glasgow studio, crafted with care, and made to be treasured.
Get in touch with me today.