I’ve grown up with dogs my entire life, so caring for them has always come naturally to me. I’m currently raising a future service dog for Canine Companions with one having just graduated as a service dog in training, which has given me extensive hands-on experience with training, behavior, and daily care for dogs of all ages. As a puppy raiser, I attend bimonthly classes led by certified trainers, complete monthly progress reports, and follow a structured routine for training, exercise, and hygiene. To take on this role, I completed 35+ hours of dog-sitting for other future service dogs at CSU, earned certification through a campus training club (including both written and handling assessments), and passed interviews with the club and Canine Companions. I then received my puppy at 8 weeks old and will raise her until she is about 16 months, so I’m very familiar with managing the chaos, teething, and messes of young puppies, as well as caring for adult and senior dogs. My family dog can also be reactive so I have experience with that as well. In addition to dogs, I also have a cat at home and am comfortable with feline care. I’m happy to administer medications when needed, and I genuinely love taking dogs out for walks, enrichment, and exercise. I’m confident, patient, and committed to making sure every pet in my care feels safe, loved, and well-supported—no matter their age or size!