Love of animals is a family affair--I grew up with cats and dogs and have never been without a pet as an adult. I've had dogs and cats, sometimes at the same time, and even Guinea pigs (my daughter's). They've always been well-cared for and treated, rightfully so, as members of our household. All animals have unique personalities and I believe in interacting with them in ways that help them feel most at ease. I've mostly had large dogs (and some pretty big cats, too!) so can handle them readily but have cared for small dogs, as well. I've also had experience in giving insulin shots to cats-my brother had two with diabetes and I cared for them when he had a stroke. Here's what I would most want to know if I were going to enlist someone to care for my pets, and it applies to me: I love animals and believe they should be kept safe, well-cared for in regard to food, water, exercise and a clean environment, and given lots of whatever attention they most crave. They deserve no less.