I have always had dogs growing up. When I moved out for college I would have never guessed I would end up with two dogs on my own. They are one of the best things to happen to me.

My dogs have taught me responsibility. I got into a relationship with a gentleman who had a one year old dog. We ended up getting an eight week old puppy together later in our relationship. Though the puppy is more high maintenance, I learned how to care for both dogs. I learned that they need lots of love, food, water, toys, leashes, vet appointments and bills, and so much more. Until I got dogs I never realized the cost of responsibility of them. I learned how often to take them out, what they should eat and shouldn't, how to bathe them, and how much to feed them. While I gained a huge amount of responsibility, I also gained an enormous amount of love for my dogs.

The love and bond you have with an animal is incredible. I never knew I could love something so much. When you are sad or crying they can sense that. Usually if I am sad my dogs will come sit on me or by me and lick my face. Of course this brings a smile to my face. If I get upset or overwhelmed they will run by my side so I can pet them and calm down. The way they sense emotion is amazing.

Dogs are so intelligent. The tricks that both of my dogs know are pretty cool, but that might be because I am a crazy dog mom. They understand phrases. For example, if I say "Do you wanna go outside?" they will run straight for the back door. If I say "You wanna ride in the truck? or Do you wanna go to the beach?" they know to go to the front door. They understand what the beach is when we ask if they want to go walk on the beach. They also understand "Do you want a treat?" and go to the pantry and automatically sit and start to do their tricks. I think it is incredible how they can comprehend any language.

I spend more time with my dogs than probably my own friends. I love my dogs. I love the love they show and give me and I love giving them the love right back. I adore my dogs. Yes they tear stuff up and aren't always good dogs but I would not trade them for anything. They are my best friends.