In my family are two lovely whippets, Sherlock, 5 (male) and Cielo, 2 (female), to whom I was the main caretaker prior to moving to study History in the University of Edinburgh. Living in Istanbul, the city where cats and dogs are cherished citizens, I have built confidence in walking my dogs safely and stimulatingly. In the bustling cityscape, my favourite moments are our temporary escapes into nature with long, playful walks that allow me to give my full attention to my dogs. However, despite the walks (and napping together) being the best part, I am also capable of feeding, cleaning up after, and grooming the dogs, as in my free times I am the one responsible for their wellbeing. Overall, my love for dogs and the happiness I gain by their presence is unmatched and will instantly be seen on my face in a huge smile and an irresistible ‘aww’. Moving to Edinburgh and watching all the dogs run and play in the Meadows, no matter the weather, gives me a bittersweet feeling, as I miss my dogs greatly but love witnessing the happiness of other dogs.