I am an all-around animal lover and am a firm believer that dogs are family, not just pets. I am fortunate enough to have grown up surrounded by family who believes and practices that same thing. As a child I had a variety of species of pets, and was lucky enough to tag along with my aunt on pet rescues in the valley. Through that experience I learned the importance of building trust as well as learning behavior of dogs/animals. I have owned several breeds of dogs throughout the last 3 decades to include pit bull, dachshund, shepherd and husky. I have no judgement of breed or history- I love them all. What matters to me is that our fur family feel safe and cared for. I currently have a rescue amputee from Kotzebue who is my baby. Unfortunately, severe abuse and eventual abandonment resulted in some quirks and fears that I have worked closely with a dog trainer for. (Note: She will not be joining me for drop ins or walks.) During that time, I gained a ton of knowledge and insight into dogs- how they think, their drives, body language and behaviors, how to communicate effectively, establishing and maintaining respect and relationship, safety. Difficult dogs do not scare me away- they need love, trust and connection too after all.