I've owned dogs all my life, most of which have been rescues, adopted from shelters or taken under my families' wing. My first dog was Jabber, a Golden Retriever, who towered over me when I was 5. We always took him out on walks, despite him being a huge dog and that being a workout. He was a blast to have around the house and we shared great memories. Our family rescued a dog named Mikey, who was being treated poorly by his past owners, was not in good shape. We took him in, got him vaccinated, cleaned, groomed, and eventually feeling healthy and strong. He lived a long life, 13 years! While times were tough at first it was amazing to see the dog grow and get healthier and healthier. Around the same time, we rescued, vaccinated, bottle-fed, and raised two cats who seemed to be the only survivors of their litter. One was hurt and the older brother seemed to lead the little girl kitten to safety. The younger sister ended up being deaf, couldn't eat, walk, or open her eyes. Their mother had suffered an attack from an animal in the woods by my home, and we found them both escaping into our yard from the brush. We took them in and made sure they were eating, getting better and not worse. It was a miracle that in the end, with my family, they both lived long and happy lives with each other. Since then they have passed, but it warms my heart to know we gave them a good life after losing their family so young. A couple years before I moved to New York, my Mom and I rescued a Pit/Shepard mix and named her Amber. My mom treated her like her little baby girl, and me like my little sister. The relationship we had with the dog got us through some tough times, and the dog is so smart and intuitive. She's muscular, strong, and healthy. A good shortstop! Soon after, we rescued her brother Lucas, a Ridgeback/Shepard mix. He is a goofball, very energetic, and warmed up to Amber quickly. Our dogs have always been well taken care of, walked regularly. Being around animals is one of my favorite things to do, and my family has always rescued any animal we bring into our home. My mother's plans for retirement include volunteering at animal shelters and taking care of as many animals as she can. Her and I share a love for animals that makes me miss being home while I'm out here in New York. Every pet is different, and I would have a ball matching your puppies' restless energy, or getting to know the quirks and playful nature of your cats. I think looking after pets is something that's both fulfilling and comforting for me - let me care for your animals!