First, please consider:
Don’t be in a rush. I have to split my time between family, work, and art. Chances are it will take me many months to a year (or longer) to complete a painting for you. Typically larger paintings also take longer.
I need a good photo. The painting will only be as good as the photo. Feel free to show me many photos so I can have an understanding of what your pet looks like, but I will end up deciding on a single one to use for the painting. Close ups of the face, especially with clear eye detail make better portraits. Outdoor lighting is always better.
Think about size. Where will this painting hang? See my pricing page to help you decide.
Think about colors. I can put colors in that you’d like to some extent. In general, light colored animals look good with a dark colored background, and vice versa.