I grew up having a dog and taking care of her from the time I was five. It was part of my daily chores to feed her. As she got older she became less physically capable, including losing her vision and starting to go deaf so I learned how to help her around the house and how to adapt to the changes that were occurring for her. In college I haven't been able to afford a dog, but feel that part of me is missing. I have a guinea pig, so I know the importance of caring for an animal, the attention and love they need, and that they have to be put first sometimes. I also love being active and walking and hiking and exploring new paths with a dog who is up for the exercise!