I have grown up with dogs my entire life. I raised a Guide Dog for the Blind when I was a freshman in high school. I can't imagine my life without dogs in it. I am not allowed to have dogs where I am at, but I have friends who have dogs and I visit them all the time. Growing up with dogs has allowed me to have the know how to meet the needs of any dog. I have bathed all different sized dogs, given required medications, feed, clean up after, walk, and even do a little training for friends who ask. I do not know everything, but I will strive to learn what needs to be learned. Why I love dog sitting I believe I was born a dog lover. My first dog was a German Shepard who took care of me as a child. The older I got the more I depended on our dogs for friendship. I was always proud to own our dogs and enjoyed them on our camping trips, now a camping trip isn't one without a dog. My favorite dog was the dog I raised for Guide Dogs for the Blind. He was a project, but to me he was my best friend. He was always there when I was upset or happy. He was also the happiest to see me after I got back from a trip. When I had to let him go to do more training so he could help someone else, I cried for a long time. However, the joy of watching someone get their freedom from having him around, brings unspeakable joy. I still miss him. After him there were other dogs who touched my heart. Most were my friends dogs because I can't have any where I live. I often would take them for walks or give them some love, but always spend time with them. This was also true when I spent sometime overseas. My best friend had two dogs, everyday they would come and stay with me while she went to work. We always had a blast! I was sad when we had to part, but I still see their faces in the pictures I have of them. Now, I go and see an amazing Black German Shepard named Katie. My boyfriends family own Katie and everyday she barks when I drive up to let everyone know I am here and she wants to see me. I always receiver the warmest welcome from her. It is difficult to lay before you the amount of dogs I have been around, or the one's who have impacted my life. I do know this, I enjoy being around them and helping others when they need help to take care of their dog.