I grew up in a family that loved pets. Over my childhood, we had much-loved guinea pigs, a cockatiel that is still alive at 24, and many budgies that were so sweet.
Most loved for me was our family golden labrador. As we grew older, it was decided I would look after him as my parents moved for work. So from the age of 16, I learned to take the whole responsibility of caring for and loving him.
The only thing that has held me back from getting my own dog is that our current plan is to live overseas in the next few years. Meaning the opportunity to care for a dog in Bendigo would be a treat....