For most of my life I've had a dog as a companion. I'm a long distance runner and hiker and having a pup with me has always been a no-brainer; why do it alone when you can share in on the fun! Also, as a vegan I've felt it has been my duty to extend my compassion and empathy towards all animals, human or not, so as to limit the deaths, harm and exploitation on all levels; I see all animals as my friends and peers, but not so foolish as to think I can hangout with a wild grizzly! I have restlessness about me and I tend to express it with being physically active, and so that is why I feel a particular bond with dogs as I've maintained we exist on a certain shared wavelength together, we want to be friends and expel all the energy possible, and if I am permitted to share that activity I'm a happy person and hope that happiness will pass along through bonding and shared experiences.