My love for animals started when I was a kid growing up with a black Labrador named Pepper. My third grade teacher kept a classroom iguana named Ernie, and that's when I learned that many different species can make good companions, and not just dogs. I am currently fostering a cat named Velvet for my friend. Velvet is the first cat I've ever taken care of and he has taught me so much! I have a special knack for getting cats and dogs to like me. I once had a roommate who owned a Shiba Inu named Olivia who hated almost everyone, but with patience and perseverance, we became friends! A number of my pet owner friends have commented that their cat or dog usually isn't as comfortable around other people as they are with me. The key is patience and letting them come to me, instead of trying to force a friendship. It can take some time, but it's always worth it!