I have owned and interacted with a variety of dogs on a regular basis. I grew up with pointers and Bichons, but also played often with a Chesapeake Bay Retriever and Great Danes. As a Girl Scout, I volunteered at a local rescue. I have experience with Blue Heelers, Labs, and mixes (Newfoundland mix). My most recent dog was a miniature Dachshund that I adored. I'm familiar with basic leash etiquette and many breeds' temperaments. I love animals, but especially the pups! They are a part of my family and I cannot imagine my life without dogs in it. If you also happen to have a cat, or some other critter, I'll probably love it too! I do not generally accept requests that require "blind dates"- a walk or house sitting where I was not able to meet the dogs first. I have found in the past this can lead to aggression or anxiety for the dogs, so I require a meet and greet before my first solo interaction with them. I work full-time (Monday-Friday) at a non-profit, so I am not currently able to provide hour long walks until after 5pm; midday walks are dependent on your location since I will be using my lunch hour to walk the doggo and will have to include travel time in that hour (hence the 5-mile radius). House-sitting can be further out but I do not provide services past Belgrade, MT to the west or Bear Canyon to the east, and distance may limit midday visits or check-ins (potty breaks). I am finishing my masters thesis in paleontology, so I am familiar with many different animals, anatomy, etc! I look forward to meeting your fur babies!