I was first introduced to dog-walking as a student in college, where a nurse kept her pup at the campus health center during the day. I regularly volunteered to take her dog Izzy on long, winding walks. It was a joy to literally pulled along her dog's journey over the years. I saw her grow from rambunctious puppy who would jump at the sight of a leaf to bounding 50-pound big kid.  I especially enjoyed paying close attention to to the things that gave her joy (passing through the rose garden and taking a gander at the scenery), as well as those that decidedly did not give her joy (being anywhere near leaves, bikes, or small dogs). Izzy and I were best friends for the remainder of my time in school.  Although interactions with animals can be light-hearted, I do take the responsibility of dog-walking seriously. Domesticated animals are, in a way, like forever babies. They are vulnerable and dependent on us human beings to meet their needs. Accordingly, their safety and comfort are of the utmost importance to me.   I will communicate with you beforehand to make sure I meet the special needs and preferences of your dog as an individual, as nobody knows your dog better than you. This way, I'll do my best to make sure your dog is safe and happy in my care!