I grew up surrounded by animals, including a near 21-year-old cat and various rabbits (two of whom are celebrating their 10th birthday this year!) and guinea pigs. I am recently bereaved of our beloved family dog, a golden retriever of nearly 14 years, and am therefore desperately missing some canine company (as well as all my rabbits who are still with my parents in London!). I’ve looked after all these animals since I was around 8 years old (I’m now 25), as well as caring for pets of family and friends. I also cared for a neighbour’s golden retriever and nursed his sore paw at the time. As a medical student, I am also confident in applying my first aid and medical skills to animals in need (I assisted my dog when he was choking and also rescued a stuck guinea pig!).