I am a lifelong pet owner. My parents raised Cocker Spaniels and Miniature Schnauzers. I have owned dogs my entire adult life ranging from Miniature Schnauzers to my current dogs, which are both rescues. One is a Great Pyrenees, Border Collie mix and the other a Chihuahua, Daschund mix. I believe that in addition to the basics, food, water and shelter, that animals need love and affection and plenty of exercise. Exercise is essential in keeping animals at a healthy weight and also helping to keep them at an energy level that is more conducive to them being raised indoors. That exercise comes not just in the form of playing in the backyard, but going out on walks. My favorite areas for walking include dog parks and nice hiking trails around Wyandotte County Lake.