When I look after dogs I see it as their time. I show them lots of love and affection. I also like to give them ample time outside to be active as well as the freedom to explore. This includes allowing them to kind of walk me, meaning the following: if the dog wants to run, I will run with him/her, and if he/she wants to walk, lay down, sniff a tree, etc. I'll go along with it (responsibly, of course). I make sure they stay well-hydrated, especially in the heat of the summer months. I always make an effort to establish a loving, trusting relationship with the dog. I used to have a dog from age 7 to age 16. I would always be petting her and running around with her outside. I was given the sole responsibility of taking care of her. After she left us, I would watch people's dogs in the neighborhood. I would walk the dogs and if people went out of town I would care for their dogs while they were gone. Sometimes I would stop by the house a few times a day, while others I would keep the dog(s) at my house. I continued caring for others' pets throughout college. I have always been very good with animals and love being around them.