Stephen Walks Dogs

Introduction: I walk dogs and do pet-sitting because I love animals and I enjoy the outdoor exercise. I don't do it trying to pay my way through college. I'm a self-employed but semi-retired attorney. Dogs and cats are endlessly fascinating to me (I own five of the former, one of the latter). My dog walks are about 45 - 75 minutes, depending on the dog(s) and weather (hotter days = shorter walks, particularly if the dogs have thick or long dark fur). They're also a lot of fun, both for me and for the dog(s) -- I'm not checking my watch every five minutes hoping to be finished! I walk at a brisk pace, but there is always ample time for the dog(s) I'm walking to stop, read the news, and take care of any pressing business. And I always make a little extra time at the end just to play and reward the dog(s) with affection for a job well done. Every interaction with an animal leaves me happier and better off. Animals are so pure. They help us to understand the world and "be in the moment." I love the chance to make an animal's day or night better. Simple as that. I also enjoy every opportunity to make a connection with an animal, to develop a relationship of trust, and go out and experience the world together. Dog walks are bonding events. I have always been fascinated by cats. When a cat bonds with you, both of you know that the relationship is not one of dependence. The cat simply made a choice. It's sublime, really.