As a lifelong animal lover, I have always been drawn to opportunities to work with and care for animals. In my early teens, I had the opportunity to work at an animal shelter, which was an incredibly rewarding and fulfilling experience. However, it was my experience with my own dog, a spunky 8-year-old Chihuahua named Lucy, that really solidified my love for all things furry and four-legged. Lucy came into my life as a rescue when she was just a pup, and she quickly became my constant companion and source of endless joy. As a Chihuahua, lucy is known for her feisty personality and big attitude, and she certainly lives up to that reputation. But what she lacks in size, she makes up for in heart and loyalty. When I first started working at the animal shelter, I was struck by the incredible diversity of animals that come through its doors. From cats and dogs to rabbits, birds, and even reptiles, the shelter was home to a wide variety of creatures, each with their own unique needs and personalities. As an animal care worker, I was responsible for providing basic care for the animals, including feeding, cleaning, and socializing with them. I quickly learned that each animal had their own quirks and preferences, and that understanding and responding to those needs was key to helping them thrive and find their forever homes. Through my work at the shelter and my experiences with lucy, I came to appreciate the incredible bond that exists between humans and animals. Whether it's a Chihuahua like lucy or a Great Dane, a cat or a bird, animals have a way of bringing joy, comfort, and companionship into our lives that is truly unique. Today, I continue to be involved in animal science and care, and I am grateful every day for the lessons that my experiences with lucy and the shelter have taught me. I believe that all animals deserve love, care, and respect, and I feel honored to have the opportunity to contribute to that mission in my own small way.