I have a long and extensive history with helping animals through a lot of varied, volunteer and professional experiences. The protection of other species, both domestic and wildlife, has been close to my heart ever since, at age four, my father placed me on the back of a doe that had appeared in our garden and she allowed me to ride her while she nibbled our roses. This occurrence cemented both my love and concern, and I've been involved in humane efforts since a young age. As well as housesitting for animals ranging from dogs to chinchillas, I have participated in events and activities that sought to generate revenue for shelters, to inspire adoptions, and to influence legislators toward animal friendly bills. The following is a list of some of my involvements. 1. I am currently serving as Deputy District Leader from New York, for the Humane Society of the United States. In this capacity I research animal-friendly legislation and influence lawmakers to support measures that protect our non-human counterparts. This work has increased my knowledge of current issues facing the movement, including but not limited to, puppy mills, live transport and especially factory farming. 2. I have submitted letters to the editor of our local daily, and have published editorials against the use of leg hold traps, encouraging financial support for area shelters and , most recently, sought to boost approval for the SAFE Act, which will prevent horse slaughter in the U.S. I created and published a petition on Facebook that has garnered thousands of signatures to help wildlife. 3. I completed an online program, including corresponding exams and a live workshop, under the auspices of FEMA and Red Rover. This has earned me a spot on their first responder list, to be deployed in cases of natural or manmade disasters. I recently deployed to Ohio, where we cared for 90 dogs, victims of a hoarding situation. We fed, cleaned, and provided enrichments for these animals, in various stages of trauma. It was a lot of work but very satisfying. 4. I just finished reviewing a series of webinars, and passing the mandatory tests, for an ASPCA sponsored effort in training potential FIR team members, who would assist in both disaster relief and large, criminal investigations. 5. Tapping my professional background as a teacher. I wrote and delivered curriculum to a class of middle school age students, in a college backed enrichment program I called "Humane Activists". This past year I served as a co-sponsor of a community college level club,"Animal Outreach" which has benefitted local rescue organizations by publicizing and generating funds through bottle drives, shoe collection, and holiday sales. 6. Several years ago I developed a project I called "Images of Love" with three local rescue groups with whom I volunteer. The purpose was to promote the adoption of their hard to place dogs and cats by having area artists create portraits, which were then gifted to the adopters. Over 40 artists contributed their original work and the event was a success in terms of fostering adoptions and creating a closer community between rescuers, artists, and animals. I was responsible for every aspect of the effort, from soliciting participants, to managing the artwork, to writing and generating all promotional materials. This opportunity proved that while able to work collegially, I am prepared to complete tasks individually. 7. I was a global volunteer in Mexico, where I worked at a medical clinic for street animals. In that role I was exposed to sick and injured dogs and cats and witnessed amputations, rabid dogs, and numerous examples of animals in distress. The experience strengthened by ability to cope and remain focused on my objectives. If your dog gets sick or has an accident while in my charge, I will be diligent in getting him or her to a vet, and notifying you immediately. 8. Currently, I am working with the Troy City Council Planning Dept. to create a dog park in the downtown area, specifically Prospect Park. Currently, there is no place for dogs to run, free, off leash, and this is an essential part of a canine's nature. At the moment, we are trying to allocate funds from the budget for this venture. 9. I write OPEDS for the Times Union, the Capital District daily, on animal subjects, ranging from factory farming to the wearing of fur. My years in a PhD program and on staff as a journalist for a weekly in MD, have cultivated my skills as a researcher and writer, and when the subject is animals I am truly motivated. 10. As I studied PhotoJouralism as an undergrad and supported myself as a freelance photographer in Boston after graduation, I still am enamored wit photography and take lots of pictures of my charges and share them with their "parents" while they are away, to foster a strong connection. Right now I have 9000 pictures in my phone and most of them are of animals! I look forward to an opportunity to meet you and your furry, family member and would be thrilled to care for your pet while you are away. I haven't met animals I didn't like and I think they are smart enough to pick up on all the love I have for them. I have a very flexible schedule, and can accommodate most requests for pet sitting, unless I'm on another assignment. I'm enthusiastic to be near as many animals as possible! Sadly, I cannot care for pets in my apartment, other than my 25 pound, one-eyed, long haired rescue cat, Navar. He takes up the whole flat!