I've grown up with dogs. My children grew up with dogs. I adopted an elderly dog,,,,although I'm not exactly elderly, I have had a dog in all stages of my life! My first dog as a child was a cocker spaniel named Duke. The dog I brought into my children's life was a cocker spaniel named Max. Max was taken to heaven last September. He was 17 years old. I strongly believe pets, in my case, dogs have improved and played a huge part in my life and my son's life. I can't imagine life without a dog...lol! I am lucky to live right by Waukee's new dog park. It is right in my back yard. It's entertainment to watch them play with their humans!