I have only lived maybe 5 years in total of my entire life without a pet; usually dogs and cats. And those 5 years were because I was in college or an apartment. But my family has always had dogs. I am fully capable of taking care of your fur baby. When walking with my hubby, I am usually saying hello to the dog before I even see the person on the other end of the leash. I haven't met a dog that I didn't like. :) Both of my fur babies passed within months of each other this past year. They were elderly dogs, so I have experience with that. But my biggest experience is with diabetic dogs - we affectionally called her our "diabetic diva". I am well aware of the strict timing needed for insulin, how to administer with a syringe and signs of low blood sugar, etc. Before Gia passed she was also going blind and we helped her a lot with that part of life. My boy dog Olee was a bit leash aggressive, so we understand that world of protecting him while also know he was a very sweet boy. I also have experience with puppies and "toddlers". :)