I'm recently retired and love animals. I've had dogs all my life and love having them around. I'm the person who always wants to pat your dog ! I've now got plenty of time on my hands and love pet minding / sitting / walking.
I usually do 2 walks a day, a long (around an hour depending on the dog) and a shorter one late afternoon. I live close to 2 dog parks so the dogs always have playtime to use up lots of energy.
The last dog I looked after didn't want to go home, she tried to escape her owner which was a nice feeling for me. She gave me that 'don't leave me' look when she went.
The dogs usually sleep beside me on their bed, but some also prefer to sleep on the bed which I'm fine with as well (good to keep the feet warm in winter). Our property is fully fenced with a nice grass courtyard and garden.
There is someone at home 99% of the time so the visiting pets are very rarely alone, which is great for anxious dogs or puppies. I prefer small to medium dogs in my home, but okay with any breed if Pet Sitting.
Love Birds also ! Cats too but I like having doors open all the time, so a cat is not an option for me....