I've been a dog owner since the age of 5 and treat my pets like family. I keep a busy schedule, but the dogs are free to go anywhere in the house they like, sleep on whatever furniture they like, and be in the yard as much as they like. I currently have one 8 year old boxer, and until she recently passed I had a 15 year old black lab. I let mine and any dogs staying with me out before and after work, and as often as desired during the evenings. I'm not trying to create a business out of pet sitting, but often help family and friends with the task. I can be lenient or strict on diet. Some dogs I watch are on a diet and others are allowed table scraps, which we are happy to share freely.