I grew up outside of Chicago where my family rescued and fostered a total of 13 dogs in my formative years. Love animals and I miss being around them since college. Growing up my family primarily rescued Old English Sheepdogs, border collie's, and even a bichon frise so big or small I've looked after em'. Recently I was taking care of a French Bulldog over Christmas who really cracked me up. That's pretty much my experience with animals aside from some volunteering at an animal shelter. The rest below is just my personal beliefs in taking care of and being responsible for a animal. feel free to ignore it. Beliefs in Animal Care Personally, I believe having a dog cage around as it is usually enjoyed by the dog and used as a sort of safe area (just what I've seen). If a dog cage is not your style I completely understand and will comply with what ever the animals normal schedule is. Which brings me to my next general impression on pet care. I think that animals enjoy and benefit from a regular schedule and dynamic play. In the past the well trained dog was because of the attentive owner plain and simple! Finally, I think that dogs pick up on owners emotions. when I'm around an animal I try and always be happy and relaxed. I've seen a friend who was very stressed about school and it (in my opinion) affected the dog that she fostered. Again, a little "woo woo" and purely anecdotal but its just what I've seen.