Custom pet portrait artist - a blonde artist using an ipad to draw

Why Hiring a Custom Pet Portrait Artist Might Just Be the Best Decision of Your Life 🐾

April 21, 2025•3 min read

If you're the kind of person who refers to their dog as their child, knows your cat’s favourite sunbathing spot, or once threw a birthday party for your rabbit (no judgment—I’d RSVP!), then you’re in the right place.

Hi, I’m Claire Donovan—a custom pet portrait artist who captures the quirks, cuddles, and cuteness of your furry (or feathered or scaled!) BFFs using the magical powers of Procreate and a whole lotta love.

Why Hiring a Custom Pet Portrait Artist Might Just Be the Best Decision of Your Life 🐾

In a world where everything’s digital, fast, and fleeting, a custom pet portrait gives you something precious: a forever moment. And honestly? Your pet deserves to be immortalised like the majestic (and slightly chaotic) legend they are.


Turn your pet into a work of art! Discover the joy of custom pet portraits, see real examples, and learn how to get the perfect photo for yours.

What Exactly Is a Custom Pet Portrait?

Great question. A custom pet portrait is a one-of-a-kind piece of artwork created just for you and your beloved pet. Unlike mass-produced art, this is a digital masterpiece that reflects your pet’s unique personality—whether they’re a sleepy sloth of a bulldog or a sassy parrot with diva energy.

🎨 I use Procreate, a professional digital illustration app, to hand-draw every piece with meticulous care (and maybe a few happy tears if your pet is particularly cute… which they obviously are).

➡️ Want to see the magic? View my Pet Portrait Portfolio


Why a Custom Pet Portrait Is the Ultimate Tribute

  • It’s Personal AF: We’re talking custom backgrounds, names, special quirks—your pet in their true essence.

  • It Lasts Forever: Unlike treats or toys, this one won’t get chewed up or mysteriously vanish under the couch.

  • It’s the Perfect Gift: For birthdays, memorials, or “just because” moments—custom pet portraits bring tears (the good kind!).

If you’re still not convinced, check out this heartwarming story from The Dodo on how pet portraits help keep memories alive. 🥹

Related Post: The Inspiration Behind Art Prints: Stories That Bring Creativity to Life

How I Capture Your Pet’s Personality (Even If They're a Wiggly Worm)

You don’t need to schedule a photo shoot or hire a glam squad. All I need is a clear photo of your pet being their adorable selves.

From there:

  1. I sketch out their likeness in Procreate.

  2. Add little character touches (the head tilt, the snaggletooth, the “feed me” eyes).

  3. Send you a proof to approve.

  4. You get a stunning canvas portrait or print, to frame like the masterpiece it is.

✨ Want tips on choosing the best photo for your portrait? Here's a great guide from Pet Photography Tips that I love.

From royal floofs to goofy goofballs, every pet deserves a portrait! Learn how to commission a custom piece and prep the perfect pic.

Digital vs. Traditional: Why I Go the Procreate Route

Look, I adore traditional art. But digital portraits have superpowers:

  • Unlimited edits (No smudges! No spilled coffee!)

  • Speedy turnaround (No waiting weeks for paint to dry!)

Testimonials for Claire Donovan Art

Real Talk: What My Clients Say ❤️

“Claire captured my dog’s personality so perfectly, I cried when I opened it. It's like looking into his soul.” — Jess, Melbourne

“I commissioned a portrait as a gift for my mum after our cat passed. She said it was the most meaningful gift she’s ever received.” — Sarah, Brisbane

Wanna see more testimonials and portraits? Come take a peek at the magic!


Who’s This Perfect For?

🎁 Pet lovers

💝 Grieving pet parents

🎨 Animal-obsessed gift givers

🏠 Interior design lovers creating pet-themed gallery walls

📱 Social media queens and kings with Insta-famous pets

Basically? Everyone.

Related Post: Understanding Art Print Quality: What to Look For

Ready to Immortalise Your Furry Soulmate?

If you’ve made it this far, let’s be honest—you already know your pet deserves this.

👉 Click here to order your custom pet portrait now

And don’t wait—because creating these soulful pieces takes time, and spots tend to fill fast (especially around holidays and special events).

Discover how custom pet portraits turn your pet’s personality into a one-of-a-kind masterpiece. From style ideas to expert photo tips, this blog post has everything you need to create a vibrant tribute to your furry friend


Final Word From Your Friendly Neighbourhood Pet Portrait Artist 🎨

Your pet is more than a pet. They’re your snuggle buddy, your co-pilot, your therapist in a fur suit. Don’t let their memory fade into your camera roll.

Let’s create a keepsake you’ll treasure forever.

Love, Claire 🐾


Claire Donovan is a custom pet portrait artist known for her colourful, character-filled illustrations that capture the heart and soul of every animal. Using Procreate and a pastel-powered palette, she turns beloved pets into vibrant works of art from her home studio in Australia.

Claire Donovan Artist & Illustrator

Claire Donovan is a custom pet portrait artist known for her colourful, character-filled illustrations that capture the heart and soul of every animal. Using Procreate and a pastel-powered palette, she turns beloved pets into vibrant works of art from her home studio in Australia.

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Claire Donovan Art acknowledges the traditional owners of the lands on which our services operate throughout Australia. We pay our respects to their Elders past, present and emerging.

Š Copyright Claire Donovan Art 2025