Advice on artist for b&g animal portrait

Hi Folks,
Ok so planning my first tattoo. I want a realistic b&g portrait of my dog who recently passed away. For me this will be the equivalent of getting a tattoo of my child (if I had one!) so really want it to be perfect.
I've been doing some research based on recommendations here & elsewhere, checking out artist portfolios etc, though I've not yet been in touch with anyone in particular.
Ive had a look at lots of the threads on here but many are quite out of date.
I'm based near Dublin but willing to travel anywhere in the country & don't mind going on a waiting list.
Also bear in mind that this will be my first, I'm going to be nervous & not sure how I will handle the tattooing process so going to someone who will be patient & can put my mind at ease would be a bonus!
I've come up with a few possibilities so far-
Denise in Snakebite - seen her recommended for animal portraits & she's a few in her portfolio which are pretty good, but mainly in colour.
Stefan in Skin City - seems to do good b&g & has done some really great, detailed animal portraits.
Claire Griffin in Athlone - amazing realistic human portraits but seems to mainly work in colour.
Tommy Gunn in Belfast - some impressive b&g portraits in his portfolio.
Robert Litcan in Kilkenny - stunning b&g work with amazing detail, his portraits look fab & seems to get a lot of good feedback - leaning towards him at this stage.
Any other feedback / anyone else I should be looking at?
Thanks in advance!