I have had a dog since I was in 5th grade, when I got older I taught her to be a certified Therapy Dog. While it's been a few years since then, she is still well behaved and can go most anywhere. I recently just adopted a dog that goes everywhere with me. I had to break him out of his shell as I suspect he might have been abused previously. I think taking care of dogs, and having this opportunity is great. Firstly it keeps me from being a crazy dog lady, and secondly allows others not to stress about the chaos and the expense of kennels. I do have a young child in my home, but she loves dogs, and is so gentle with them. She's grown up around them and isn't afraid of them.