I’ve basically been surrounded by dogs my entire life, so at this point being around them feels less like work and more like a lifestyle choice I never really got to vote on. I’ve had dogs all my life, and somewhere along the way I became the person people trust when they need a dog sitter. Whether it’s for a weekend, a vacation, or just a long day away, I’m used to stepping in and making sure dogs are safe, cared for, and probably a little spoiled. I also have hands-on experience working in a kennel, which taught me a lot about dog behavior, routines, and the very impressive range of chaos one animal can create before 8 a.m. Working in that environment helped me get comfortable with dogs of all sizes, breeds, and personalities. I learned how to handle nervous dogs, high-energy dogs, stubborn dogs, and the occasional drama queen who acts like going outside in light rain is a personal attack. It also taught me the importance of staying calm, being observant, and keeping a good routine. Because I’ve always had dogs and regularly dog sit, caring for them comes naturally to me. I’m comfortable with feeding schedules, walks, playtime, giving lots of attention, and making sure they feel comfortable while their owners are away. I know that every dog is different. Some want nonstop play and attention, and some just want a cozy spot to nap and someone nearby who understands that they are, in fact, royalty. Overall, dog sitting is something I genuinely enjoy. I love getting to know each dog’s personality, quirks, and little habits. Spending time with dogs never really feels like a chore to me. It’s fun, rewarding, and usually comes with a lot of tail wagging, a little bit of slobber, and at least one moment where I seriously question who is in charge.