I've been around dogs and cats my entire life. My grandmother had two cats when my family moved in with her when I was 5 years old. Although they weren't technically my cats, I always saw them as such and loved just the same. My mom decided to get the family a golden retriever puppy two years later in which my sister and I named Snuggles. I didn't realize how loving and selfless dogs were until I grew up with Snuggles and it absolutely changed me. I currently have a dog named Zoey, who is my soul dog, and she's turning 14 this year in October. I never realized how difficult taking care of an elderly dog can be until about three years ago when my girl started having problems. I am grateful for every single day I have left with my girl and each day brings a new challenge, but it's given me a better understanding of how to care for elderly pets. I also have a cat named Malcolm who turned 5 this year. He is an absolute menace, but he's also the cuddliest guy around. These animals are my absolute world and I only assume that other pet owners feel the same about their pets. This is why I'm determined to make sure each pet I take care of is treated with the utmost care and love, as if they were my dog or cat.