I adopted my first pet (a golden retriever puppy) at age 27 and utterly fell in love with dogs and learning how to best care for them. I read The Art of Raising a Puppy by the Monks of New Skete and used their techniques to evaluate the personalities of over 80 puppies before making my selection. I was looking for a social, playful, and easy to train dog, and that is exactly what I got with "Dasha." I took her to puppy kindergarten and level 1 dog training where I learned that the training was more for me than for her. I learned to understand the world from a dog's perspective and to be consistent with my boundaries and expectations. Dasha was a delightful companion until I had to say goodbye to her when she developed an incurable blood disorder at age 12. Life got a little busy so indoor pets -- fish and hamsters -- were all we could handle for a few years. 

When I met my husband he had a lovely tiny tuxedo cat named Molly. I was charmed by her trust and willingness to take a nap next to me the first day we met. She soon became such a constant companion that I started calling her my saddlebag. Every time I sat down she'd curl up next to my leg and fall asleep. She also loved to nap on my desk while I worked. I placed her favorite pillow next to my keyboard so I could pet her when I needed a break. Tragically, Molly developed cancer, and we lost her about 4 years ago. My husband was crushed and wasn't sure he ever wanted to have another cat.  

About a year after Molly died, my daughter and I bought supplies for our beta fish at a local pet store. We always say hi to the dogs and cats who are up for adoption. It's good for their socialization, and it's fun for us. This day there were two older kittens, brothers, who were curled up together in one kennel. They were so adorable that we fell in love instantly. After some persuasion my husband gave in and we took them home. These little guys have completely different personalities. Toby is friendly to everyone and so brave he walks toward the vacuum and any other scary thing. Link spends most of his days hiding in a closet or under the covers. He comes out for social time only after it has been quiet for several hours and he's certain it is safe. Toby likes to surveill the neighborhood from our big windows and play hockey or volleyball with wads of paper. When Toby wants a nap, he finds his brother and the two curl up together and snooze for hours. Like Molly, they also like to be on my desk when I'm working. I had to get a clear plastic cover to protect my keyboard from their stretching paws that erase my work or send emails by accident.  

We recently moved to Sweden with our two cats. I'm studying swedish for the next year. A classmate planned to be away for several days and needed someone to look in on his two cats. I offered to do it and walked over twice a day and sat for a couple of hours with them each time. After playing with them and taking care of the litter box and their food I studied swedish or watched a movie. I kept my friend updated with texts and photos, so they could relax knowing their boys were safe. I'd be happy to do that for your dogs, cats, or any other critter who needs company and care. I'm willing to stay there overnight, if that is your preference. Over the years I have swapped pet care with many friends, caring for their cats or dogs when they travel and they care for mine. I posted pictures of some of these furry friends in my photo gallery. I look forward to meeting you and your pets!