My grandmother had a tortoise named Marianita and a dog named Lola. Marianita loved eating cucumbers and hiding under flowerpots in the garden. Lola loved running around the park and always came to the table to ask for food. Someone always gave her a little treat — even if my dad didn’t like it!

Maggie, my aunt and uncle’s Siberian husky, was the pet I spent the most time with. She was full of energy and always happy. I used to put my hand in her mouth and hold her tongue – it was our funny little game.

And then there’s Roma, my in-laws’ Rottweiler. She really loves me and never wants me to leave when I go visit her.