As someone who grew up in a family that adores animals, I always had a dog by my side. From spritely Golden Retrievers to a burly Bernese Mountain Dog, a wagging tail has never been far for me. When I first turned thirteen, I began volunteering for my local humane society where I cleaned the kennels, walked the dogs, refilled food and water bowls, and enriched all animals. My family and I also participated in the foster program. We took in both puppies and kittens for periods ranging from two weeks to two months. In addition to volunteering for my humane society, I have walked and dogsat for my neighbors since I was twelve. A few of the breeds I’ve cared for include the German Shepherd, Labrador, Labradoodle, Boston Terrier, Yorkshire Terrier, and Pekingese.