I grew up with dogs in my home since before I was born. After my first dog passed away, we adopted a puppy that was golden-lab mix and a year later, a 2-year-old yellow lab that was recovering from ACL surgery. From ten years old until 16, I learned how to train a puppy, how to introduce a new dog to a household, how to care for an injured dog, and how to love and play with two wonderful yet very different dogs. My favorite past time in the summer was to take my dogs for a walk by myself around the neighborhood and the park. My mother was the trainer, my sister was the cuddle buddy, but I was the playmate. During play time, walks, even greetings when we walked through the door-that is where I bonded with not just my dogs, but those of my friends, families, and neighbors. Moscow, our 2-year-old adoptee, was eventually diagnosed with osteosarcoma and had to have his front left leg amputated. Over the next two years, until he passed away from a different cancer, I learned first-hand how to care for a special needs dog, how to watch for pain management, and how to be completely in tune with a dog's health and personality. Our puppy, Mollie, followed him only a year later. We adopted another puppy, Charlie, who is happy and healthy and as unique as can be. I am deeply familiar with how integral dogs are to a part of our lives. Wrigley, Mollie, Moscow, and Charlie have all taught me how much of a responsibility and a true pleasure it is to have a dog in your life. After completing college and living abroad for two years, I've deeply missed having a dog in my life. I am here on Rover because I love dogs of any kind. During high school, we couldn't have given Charlie the care and attention he needed without our dog walker, who he absolutely adored. I want to be that person for you; so you don't have to feel guilty leaving your dog at home if you work long hours, if your family has a crazy schedule, if you travel quite frequently. Your dog will receive love, attention, exercise, and the care he or she needs and deserves!