I grew up with cats and dogs and I have always been an animal person. I've been a private tutor (Harvard-educated) for many years and I've lost track of the number of times this has happened: I walk into a new student's home and hear that their dog "doesn't like strangers" or "doesn't like men" and then quickly establish an affectionate rapport with the little guy or gal, much to their owner's surprise. I've always known that if I got a dog, I would want it to have an ideal life--with plenty of space and lots of time outdoors, but my housing situation hasn't yet allowed that. Dog-sitting is a great way for me to get my "doggy fix." I am active, gentle, loving, and responsible.