Fortunately the granparents provided several photos and I was able to see and paint Nicole's eyes wide open from one of these.  Regarding painting the black dog:  By observing the photos closely, one can see how the sun reflects off the black coat.  By painting with fine light strokes of white and gray where the sun is glinting off the dark coat, the artist can suggest the dog's form.  I used a number 2 pointed sable and synthetic brush.