I've always had pets, from stick insects and goldfish to hamsters and rabbits, but the holy grail for me was always having a dog. Eventually my parents caved when I was 13 and we got our first family dog, a strong willed terrier (aren't they all). Almost 20 years later they now have a cockapoo, Archie, who I adore but unfortunately I no longer live at home. The time is fast approaching when I welcome my own pup to my household permanently, but for now I'm filling the hole caring for others.