We’re looking forward to introducing you to Lindsey Peterson. Check out our conversation below.
Lindsey , a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
Lately, I’ve been finding a lot of joy in going to concerts. Live music has always been something that lifts my spirits—it gives me a deep appreciation for the artistry behind it. This summer, I’ve been stepping out of my usual country scene and going to more hard rock and metal shows, and I’ve genuinely loved the shift. There’s something so freeing about screaming your heart out to a favorite song, jumping until you’re sweaty and breathless, and feeling completely in the moment. It’s powerful to watch total strangers connect through that shared energy—it reminds me how music brings people together in the most unexpected, beautiful ways.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hi! I’m Lindsey, the artist behind PawPrints by Lindsey. I create custom pet portraits as well as original artwork, including landscapes. I’m currently a full-time student at Parker University, working toward becoming a chiropractor for both humans and animals. Art has become both a creative outlet and a way to bring joy to others—especially pet parents.
Before this chapter, I spent about six years as a veterinary technician, where I saw firsthand the deep bond people share with their animals—through both the happiest and hardest moments. As a pet parent myself, I understand how meaningful it is to have a portrait that truly captures the spirit of your furry friend.
PawPrints by Lindsey started out of love: love for painting, for animals, and for the happiness these portraits bring to people. Balancing school, work, and life isn’t always easy, but painting gives me purpose and peace—and I’m so grateful I get to share that with others while I pursue a future in healing both people and pets.
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. What’s a moment that really shaped how you see the world?
A moment that really shaped how I see the world was losing my mom when I was 18, during my freshman year of undergrad. She was my biggest supporter, especially when it came to my art. Even when I was critical of my own work, she always saw the beauty in it. Toward the end of her life, I saw her start to tap into her own creativity—exploring painting, photography, and crafts—which inspired me even more.
After she passed, I found myself looking back at the photos she had taken, remembering the good times we shared. When I began painting those moments, it felt like she was still with me. Her voice of encouragement echoed in my mind whenever I doubted myself, and that gave me a sense of peace. That experience completely changed the way I view art and memory—it taught me that creating something tangible from a moment or a feeling can help you hold on to what really matters.
Now, many of my commissions are for people grieving the loss of a pet or loved one—sometimes it’s a portrait, sometimes it’s a place where ashes were spread. My goal is to help them see the beauty in those memories, not just the sadness. I want my art to bring people the same peace and connection I felt painting in memory of my mom.
What fear has held you back the most in your life?
The fear that’s held me back the most has been the fear of failure—and not being good enough in the eyes of others. I won’t pretend that I’ve completely overcome it, because it still sneaks in from time to time. Growing up, I was extremely competitive, whether it was in sports, art, or any extracurriculars. If I wasn’t the best, I was incredibly hard on myself.
That mindset carried into my art too. I’d constantly compare myself to others—especially artists with a fine art background—even though my style is completely different. It took me a long time to realize that you don’t have to be the best, you just have to be yourself. Your style, your path, your voice—that’s what makes you valuable. The right people will resonate with that, and that’s what matters.
If I had adopted that mindset earlier, I think I could have saved myself from a lot of unnecessary self-doubt. But I’m grateful I’ve learned it now—and I try to keep reminding myself of it every time fear tries to creep back in.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
Something I’m committed to—no matter how long it takes—is building a life that makes me truly happy and healthy. I want to live in a way that aligns with who I am, doing the things that bring me joy, even when the path is uncertain. I’ve learned that life is too short to let fear or doubt keep you from taking chances. I don’t want to look back and regret not doing something I knew, deep down, would’ve brought me peace and purpose.
For me, that also means trusting and following the path God has laid out for me. I believe that His plan is what will ultimately lead me to the happiness I desire. When I stay true to that—even in difficult or uncertain seasons—I find clarity and comfort in knowing I’m exactly where I’m meant to be.
I try to live by the idea of storytelling—creating a life I’ll be proud to share with my future grandkids. A life that inspires them to chase their passions, take brave steps, and live with compassion. That’s why I’m committed to helping animals, creating meaningful art, and building a career in chiropractic care that brings healing to both people and pets. If it brings joy, aligns with my values, and reflects God’s purpose for me, then I know I’m on the right track.
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. Are you doing what you were born to do—or what you were told to do?
I’m just recently starting to figure out the answer to that question. For the first 20 years of my life, I thought I was going to be a veterinarian—because that’s what I always believed was my path. Like many young girls who love animals, I followed the expected route: I got my first job at a local vet clinic when I was 15, worked my way up to becoming a vet tech, and studied pre-veterinary medicine in college.
Along the way, there were a lot of people telling me what path I needed to take, reinforcing the idea that vet school was the “right” and only option for someone like me. But when it came time to apply, I realized I couldn’t do it—not because I was afraid I wouldn’t get in, but because a deeper voice inside me said this wasn’t the right path.
I love animals and want to help them, but I knew there was another way for me—through chiropractic care. I saw a need for specialties that provide care when other options aren’t available, and that’s where I felt called.
Making the decision to go to chiropractic school instead of vet school wasn’t easy, especially with people doubting me or thinking I was making a mistake. But the more I committed to this path, the more things fell into place.
Even now, some still question my choice, but every day I become more certain that I’m exactly where I’m meant to be. I’m excited for the journey ahead and the unique ways I’ll be able to help both animals and people heal
Contact Info:
- Website: https://pawprintsbylindsey.wixsite.com/my-site
- Instagram: @pawprintsbylindsey
