My love for and connection with dogs has been strong since I was little. My older brother was allergic when we were young so my parents wouldn't get one, despite my daily begging, christmas lists of 1) dog, 2) dog and 3) dog, and a five-paragraph persuasion essay written in 6th grade. To fill the void, I dog sat throughout my life. My aunt (now a professional dog walker/sitter) has always had between 2 and 4 dogs that I've helped her care for. And thank god, my family finally got a dog in my teens, Bear, who is my world. After college, I puppysat (chocolate lab) for a friend's friend for about a month while she was at work. I know how to care for a puppy, potty train and teach skills/tricks. I am also very good at keeping dogs relaxed and under control. It sounds a little crazy, but I do feel like I have a way of speaking to them and calming them. No matter the breed, I feel connected to them. A few other things about me: I am very big on exercising (mostly running and yoga) -- I have 3 brothers who play professional sports so I didn't really have much of a choice; I went to Cal (Go Bears!) but I love the Pac-12 in general; I was born and raised in the Bay Area and I think it's the best place on earth. Oh, and I would LOVE to help take care of your dog :)