I grew up always having a dog or cat to take care of in my family. Part of being able to have a pet in our home, my brother and I were tasked to take care of it--feeding, walking and bathing. I loved animals so much, that I actually went to school to be a vet. Unfortunately that dream didn't stick, but I did get a degree in marine biology and worked at a vet clinic for a couple of years in my 20's. My friends and family frequently relied on me to take care of their pets. My brother asked me to take care of his dog for 6 months because he moved down south for a bit. I've had roommates with dogs and people who live in my building would ask me to watch their pets if they needed to go away. I had a cat for over 20 years and had to put her to sleep a couple of years ago and it was extremely challenging. I've wanted a dog, but since I teach and am away from my house for too long, I didn't think it would be fair. But I am off for the summer and thought taking care of someone else's pets would be a great way to satiate my craving to get a dog.