I have always been a great lover of animals. As a child, I had many different pets throughout the years - a dog, cats, pigeons, ducks, lovebirds, budgies, a canary, mice, gerbils, a rabbit, and a horse. I once thought about being a zoologist (but my worst subject was biology). Our last pet (a Cairn Terrier) died two years ago. We had Buddy for almost 16 years. My husband and I are both retired now. We have opted not to get another dog, because it simplifies travel plans. However, I greatly miss having a dog. I miss playing fetch with a dog, and going on long walks with a dog. I miss the cuddling, and the pure joy that a dog naturally brings into a family.