I’ve grown up around dogs and have been caring for them since I was about 10 years old. Even before having my own dog, I regularly helped by walking neighborhood dogs of all sizes. One of those was a Rottweiler who had some behavioral challenges with strangers but bonded well with me, and I was trusted to walk him regularly when other walkers had difficulty. I’ve often been told I have a calm, reassuring energy that dogs seem to respond to naturally. Over the years, I’ve had hands-on experience with dogs of many breeds, sizes, and personalities, including rescues and foster dogs. I’ve also helped a close friend who worked with the SPCA by assisting with dog transport, including last-minute and emergency placements to and from foster homes. My first personal dog was a Husky–Malamute mix named Cody, whom I adopted from the SPCA at around 3–4 years old. He came with some challenges due to his previous living situation, but with consistency, patience, and an environment better suited to his needs, he became a wonderful companion. He was great with kids, cats, and other animals and lived a long, happy life into his senior years. I’ve also fostered a Pit Bull mix for several months until she found her forever home. In a previous chapter of my life, I shared a home with a German Shepherd and a German Shepherd/Rottweiler mix, and caring for them gave me a deeper appreciation for structure, routine, and clear communication — especially with intelligent, energetic dogs. While I’m not a trainer, I’ve always taken the time to work with my dogs in a patient, consistent way to help them feel secure and well-mannered. Currently, I have a young German Shepherd / Black Mouth Cur mix who is my daily companion. We focus on routine, enrichment, and basic obedience, and he’s a happy, social, people-friendly goof who’s often by my side. I’ve also had cats my entire life and currently live with two, so I’m very comfortable caring for dogs in multi-pet households. While much of my experience happens to be with larger and working breeds, I genuinely enjoy caring for dogs of all sizes. I find that when you understand dog behavior and communication, those skills translate naturally to smaller breeds as well. My approach is calm, attentive, and respectful of each dog’s individual needs, and my goal is always to make them feel safe, comfortable, and cared for while you’re away.