Growing up, we had two dogs in our family: a Dalmatian named Nicky and a Beagle named Abbey. I lived in three cities with those two pups, and they were some of my closest friends for most of my life. I spent a lot of time outdoors with Nicky and Abbey as a kid, and when I was older and strong enough to walk them, I did that almost every evening. If I left my door cracked open, Abbey would run into my room and jump on my bed to wake me up every morning. She was always energetic, eager to be walked, and loved food. Nicky was quiet but craved attention. If you scratched her ears, she would never fail to roll over for a belly rub. She was also fast and enjoyed running while outside or on a walk. These are some of my favorite memories of Nicky and Abbey. Sadly, they both passed away of old age while I was in college. I haven't had the resources to take care of a dog of my own since then, but I have helped with friends' dogs during times of need. I am and always have been a dog lover through and through. If I see a dog walk by in the park or meet one in someone's home, I have to stop to pet him or her. People often comment when sit I down and start playing fetch with their dog. I know it's hard to entrust your dog to someone new. They're one of your family members, after all. But I promise if your dog and I get to know each other, we can become the best of friends!