Melanie is a lifelong friend, and accordingly I have known her adoration for dogs so long as we've known one another (2 years old?). Not only does she love dogs but I, having a dog myself, trust her completely, even though my dog is a bit snappy and small, but Mel is careful and delicate with her and I never worry that she'll drop her. I often recommend Mel to watch friend's dogs as well; she has always been very responsible and punctual and even a stickler for following set rules so I always feel confident that I am referring a dog-lover/sitter who will keep their baby dog safe and sound. Recently I had her babysit for a friend who lives in the West Village for a rather enormous dog for a solid week, and the whole thing went so well (it didn't hurt that the dog was the sweetest rescue and so fluffy) that now all the West Village mom's know her and want to use her themselves. Mel is a kind and responsible person and I think that is the most important thing when it comes to letting someone watch your heart/dog.