I grew up with dogs as family pets and have always considered myself a “dog person.” My family had a sheepdog, a black lab, and a Scottish sheepdog, which helped shape my lifelong love for animals. About 30 years ago, I met my wife, a true cat person through and through, and over time I happily transitioned into becoming a devoted cat lover as well. Over the years, my wife and I have shared life with three cats, even taking them on leash walks around the neighborhood—yes, I am proudly that person now. Bella, my 18-year-old super senior cat, just lost her struggle with kidney disease and we miss her dearly. My wife and I spoil our animals all the time. Our cats have always been like children to us and the bonds we build with our animals over the years have been deeply meaningful. I believe animals teach unconditional love, friendship, and have a beautiful way of offering comfort exactly when it’s needed most. In addition to caring for my own pets, I have spent years looking after neighbors’ chickens, rabbits, dogs, cats, hamsters, and even a rat! After 13 years of teaching English at a nearby Early College, I recently retired from education and am excited to begin this new chapter with Rover. I have always had an entrepreneurial spirit. When I am not caring for animals, I run a professional mountain biking guide service in Asheville called Pisgah Mountain Bike Adventures. With more than 40 years of passion for mountain biking, being outdoors and in the mountains is where I feel most at home. I also run an Airbnb in our finished basement and I am currently writing a memoir. I am excited to be part of the Rover team and I look forward to caring for your dog, cat, or other beloved pet with the same level of attentiveness and heart that I have given to everything in my life. I am all in. I am excited to continue growing with Rover and embrace this new direction in my life with enthusiasm and hope, proving it’s never too late to follow a new calling!