I have know Rick my entire life. Growing the house was filled with pets; dogs, cockateils, guinea pigs, fish, etc. As kids we did our best to take care of our pets but standing behind us with a watchful eye was Dad, making sure each pet recieved the care and attention they deserved. He has loved each one more then the last. In middle school I got a box turtle, which I (with a lot of help from dad) took care of for a few years before leaving for college. At that point my Dad formally adopted Clementine, and with the rise of smart phones (and when he figured out the camera) the whole family started to recieve updates about Clems days such as how many worms she ate and how happy she was crawling around in the backyard. Clemintine is still with us today, 19 years later (and probably has at least 19 more to go). Beyond our turtle he is great with dogs too! Currently they have two pups who are showered with attention, treats, and walks daily. As if that wasn't enough he even volunteers at the Dumb Friends League weekly to walk dogs still waiting to be adopted! Recently retired he could have chosen any hobby to past the time and instead he has chosen to provide these dogs with some exercise and extra love to make their stay at the Dumb Friends League more enjoyable. If and when I get a dog you can guarentee that I will be going to my Dad to get extra help when I need it, like I did when I was young.

Richard N. is a neighbor of mine with whom I've traded pet care for years when one or the other goes out of town. He consistently demonstrates special fondness, care, and gentleness with his pets, as well as with mine. When taking care of my dogs, he is very careful to follow feeding, medical, and walking instructions as given. He clearly enjoys any time he spends with pets, and I can't imagine a better candidate to entrust with any pet-related responsibilities he's given.