I began taking care of dogs when I was in grade school. In my neighborhood, I was known as the go-to dog walker and sitter. Multiple neighbors would have me take care of their dogs whenever they had to go out of town. I worked with a variety of breeds during this time. Since graduating from college I have lived with and helped raise a few young pups. I helped take care of a 1-year-old Bassett hound pup as well as two yellow lab puppies. Working with these young dogs helped me develop comfort as well as an effective routine for raising and caring for a young puppy. Nicole grew up with a dalmatian/bichon mix. She has lived with multiple breeds throughout her time in undergraduate and graduate school and has frequently helped out friends and family with taking care of dogs of all ages and sizes. For the last two years, Nicole and I have been raising our own mixed pup, Peri, starting from when she was about 6 months old.