Summer 1989. I was in my last year of college, and I had my very first pet sitting gig with Bandit, the wonder Sheltie.

I just loved this little guy, and asked my friend to take a picture of us together, so that I could remember him forever. So glad I did!

After that, there was Murphy, Tasha, Andy, Percy, Mimi, Tuffy, Patty, Jordan, Megan, Misha, an elderly goldfish named Dorothy, and a whole host of other friends: dogs, cats, hermit crabs and even frogs. I remember every single one. I loved when friends and family (and sometimes even bosses) asked me to look after their pals. I venture to guess that I have taken care of hundreds of pets over the years.

Then, of course there was Jack, Barley and Simon, our own beloved pets that inspired Auntie Leslie’s House. Though they are gone, their love lives on in every wonderful pet that comes to visit us in our home. It may be corny, but it’s true: we love them like they are family. ❤️