Growing up on a small farm in rural Texas, I have cared and had a heart for animals since young childhood. I have always had dogs. I was involved in Future Farmers of America in high school, which required me to raise animals as a school project. I attended Texas A&M University as a freshman and sophomore in college, majoring in Animal Science. Included in that field of study was a comprehensive course in animal biology and care. During this time, I worked as a student worker for the Swine Center, caring for animals of all ages, including the resident dog. My children were also raised with pets and also always had dogs. We frequently rescued dogs. Living in the country, we never turned one out who wandered up homeless. As an animal owner, I know the difficulties involved with needing and finding someone to care for our pets at times. I love the flexibility of caring for others' pets and having the opportunity to meet both the owners and the dogs!