For as long as I have known Matthew, his genuine affection and respect for all animals (domestic and otherwise) has been a most prominent trait of his core identity. Should a location in downtown Portsmouth have a resident shop dog or cat, I would be sure to receive updates whenever Matthew would visit that animal. Interactions with his neighbors’ and family’s animals would garner the same treatment. Caring for a family pet (in whatever capacity) is not unlike caring for a member of the family. In my judgment, Matthew’s understanding of and respect for this core principle are unequivocal. Further, it is a responsibility that Matthew can be trusted to take as seriously as anyone ever could.