Growing up I was the kid knocking on every neighbor’s door to walk their dog. My parents eventually me a Rhodesian Ridgeback puppy. A big, strong-willed breed that taught me a lot about patience and understanding a dog on their own terms. My family has had multiple dogs since, and I volunteer at local shelters whenever I can. Shelter work especially has given me a lot of experience. I’ve worked with dogs of all backgrounds, including shy and fearful dogs who need extra patience to build trust, seniors who need gentle and attentive care, and dogs with aggression who just need someone calm and consistent. I know how to read a dog’s body language, respect their boundaries, and help them feel safe in an unfamiliar situation. On top of that, I’m the first person everyone calls when they need help with their animals — friends, family, neighbors — and I’ve cared for a huge variety of breeds and personalities over the years.