I've owned dogs, usually two at a time, for most of my adult life. Mostly Retrievers. I've done some informal training with my own dogs, teaching basic skills as well as fun tricks. I've done extensive research on nutrition and health and know how to carefully provide for the nutritional and health needs of dogs, including allopathic and alternative therapies. One of our dogs was epileptic and was treated very successfully with acupuncture and diet. I was certified in Animal Assisted Therapy with the Delta Society, which I did for seven years with my Golden Retriever Zach. He won first place in obedience at our local park and earned a Canine Good Citizens certificate. We worked with many diverse populations including runaway children, teenagers with Down Syndrome, children of mothers who were victim of domestic violence, and low-income adults with dual diagnosis of substance abuse and mental illness. I currently volunteer at a local dog rescue. My availability is somewhat flexible.