I know that I have loved the company of dogs since I was very young. At 2 and 1/2 years, I kind of ran away with a big German Shepherd that I didn't know. We walked a few blocks together before we were found by my distraught mother. The dog's head and my head were at about the same height as we walked together. This dog probably protected me, as he was a lost police dog. I currently have 2 miniature poodles, Romeo that I got as a puppy and Phillipe that I rescued at age 2. I also watch Jackson my daughter's pit bull mix, a 70 pound dog with a lot of energy and personality. I know how important it is for dogs to be engaged and exercised so that their minds and bodies are busy. I also understand the importance of a routine and the worth of having your dog(s) stay in their own environment or a comfortable environment when you are away. I enjoy playing with dogs in all sorts of manners: high energy burning activities such as fetch, soft calming activities such as long belly rubs, ear scratches, or just talking to them eye to eye. I also engage dogs with hide and seek games in the house with special treats, or just hiding treats for them to find which captures their attention. I also enjoy training dogs to do tricks, even if they are only basic ones, because I think it's important for dogs to earn their food/snacks, just like they would have to in the wild. If a dog is trainable, I would always try to teach them some rewarding commands. I just love the company of dogs, and would like to keep your dog happy and provide for his doggie needs while you are away.