I’ve always loved being around and taking care of animals. Growing up, my family always had a cat and after moving when I was 12, we finally got a dog of our own. In addition to my pets, I’ve watched, fed, and walked dogs for extended family, neighbors, friends, and coworkers. I’m familiar with the slower paces and side effects of arthritis in older dogs as well as the boisterous energy of puppies. I’ve also cared for a number of cats and kittens and their wide range of personalities—from my clingy-but-only-cuddly-on-her-terms tabby, to the friendliest barn cat you’ll ever meet, or patiently befriending the quietest and shyest of shelter kitties. I’ve also cared for parrots, fish, hamsters, and horses, and know no animal is too big or too small to be a friend.