I've always been surrounded by dogs, whether the ones my family has had (a labrador and two beagles!) or family friends' dogs that I loved as my own. They hold such a special place in my heart, which is why I've spent years volunteering with local shelters in high school and college, such as the Arizona Humane Association, the Coconino Humane Association, and Second Chance Center for Animals. This volunteer experience included socializing, fetching, brushing, cleaning kennels, preparing for adoption, and also some photography work (as that is my major). This was such a rewarding experience, especially considering in college I wasn't around my pups at home.