I cannot remember a time when I did not have a dog in my life: my parents got our first family pet (Holly, a rescue German Shepherd Collie) when I was less than a year old. As a toddler, when I would curiously pull Holly's tail, my mother would give my hair a yank and ask, "How do you like it?!" At one point growing up, we had five dogs in the house at once! My folks would work late at times and would occasional leave them with me for a few days. Caring for them was sometimes a challenge but never a burden. I prided myself then and pride myself now on making sure they are happy and comfortable. I learned how to be a kind, generous person through growing up with dogs and, both consciously and not, emulating their behavior from Holly all the way to Bella, my 130 pound Newfie! Life has simply never existed without them. At my best, I am a lot like a dog: loyal, excitable, hard working, affectionate, and easily hurt. Therefore, I treat dogs the way I would like to be treated. Having a mother who runs a vet hospital outside Philly hasn't hurt either (she got her tech certification when I was in high school). I am practiced in providing to all the dog's needs, as well as recognizing when the dog needs something more than the usual (limps, dehydration, etc.). As a fitness enthusiast and certified personal trainer, I am also remarkably strong; basically, I can handle the big ones! Ultimately I am attentive and responsive to the individual needs and personality of the dog. Some dogs (like my Bella) need constant attention and to be tired out in order to sleep at night. Others just want someone to sit with. I am happy to simply spend some time with our furry friends!