As a caretaker of your pets, plants, and home, I'm here to help you feel at ease while you're away. I’ve lived with all sorts of animals since childhood. I grew up on a farm, and we had 3-6 dogs at any given time. When I went to college, I adopted the first dog I would raise on my own -- he lived almost 15 happy years. I rescued another pup in my mid-thirties — he’s going on 7, and we’re best buds. So, I have experience taking care of puppies, seniors, and every age in between. My dogs and I have participated in puppy schools and worked 1:1 with excellent dog trainers -- in each case, I learned as much as my dog. I believe dogs just want to give love and get love back. This emotional reciprocation, along with adequate exercise and a healthy diet, makes for a happy, healthy dog. I believe every dog is good by nature, and, as humans, we have a responsibility to provide dogs with a nurturing environment in which they can be their good-natured, happy selves. I love connecting with a new dog, understanding its world and experience. With empathy from this connection, I find it easier to care for a dog and provide the type of love any particular dog needs and wants -- through daily routines, fun-hearted play, and plenty of attention. Ultimately, this leads to a more enjoyable relationship between human and canine. While I’m primarily a dog person, I grew up with lots of cats on the farm and have lived with and cared for cats here and there as an adult. I feel comfortable with cats and understand their needs. I understand the trust required to let someone else take care of your pet. My promise is to always be building and reinforcing my trustworthiness as a caregiver to animals and plants.