Who else co-owns Ruff Translating? Meet our "Professional Dog Snuggler": Kimberly Eisen!

My wife is a dog nut. She always has been in the time that I have known her, which is lucky given my line of work, and dedication of half our house to guest pups. It doesn't seem fair that I haven't fully introduced her, so I took some time to interview her on her particular skill set and role within our business. ​

Tell me why you find having dogs in our life so rewarding

Each and every pooch that comes into our life is special. Just like with people, you find some that you really click with and some that are great, but not quite your cup of tea. As a social worker, I find people to be really interesting and love having the opportunity to get to know so many wonderful individuals. I feel largely the same way about all the dogs that I get to visit with. 

What is you favorite weird dog science fact?

That weird way they drink water - how they make a little cup with the back of their tongue and then flick it into their mouths. Google it - it's great!

What do you love most about having guest dogs at our home?

My favorite part of having guest dogs is getting to snuggle the ones that need a little extra attention. Some dogs are more into people, some are more into the other dogs. My lap is always open for the former.

What is your favorite activity to do with our pack?

Well, I really like putting them in costumes and making them sit for pictures. But I think my favorite is taking them swimming at our river beach. 

Tell me about you as if we aren't married! What do you do when you aren't on our couch cuddling our pack of dogs or working on our farm?

I work for a national social work organization, working for the profession to enhance our ability to serve our clients and protect professional standards. I also founded and am current leadership for the Albany All Stars Roller Derby League - the Capital Region's largest semi-professional women's sports team. 

What is your favorite thing about each of our dogs?

Badger is incorrigible, but he is my first baby and therefore is perfect.
Swanson is the best cuddler, and also the most helpful. When a rooster comes for me - he's always got my back!
Rio has the goofiest smile, and is just a sweet ball of fluff!

Which of our own dogs drives you the most nuts, and why?

Oh, Badger for sure. As my first solo puppy, he had no boundaries and no idea how to "dog" appropriately. He is always going to beg for food, he is always going to try to steal it when you're not looking - and up until the last 2 years or so, was the worst at listening. But again, he's also perfect. 

If you could choose any breed of dog to add to our pack, what would it be and why?

Hm...this is so hard! Some days I think "definitely a miniature poodle" because they are smart, and they don't shed, and they are so Muppet like. Then I see another adorable and excellent dog come through our home, and then I want one of those too! 
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Tell me why everyone we know refers to you as a "dog auntie" or the "professional snuggler"? 

Oh, because I am defo going to try to get the snuggliest dogs to take a selfie with me, let me cover them in blankies and let me smoosh them. It's not for everyone, but I give them all the opportunity. 

If you were a dog, which breed would you be?
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Oh geez - maybe an Aussie like Rio? Kind of aloof, loves all dogs and is pretty selective about the humans that she lets close to her. Also, in roller derby terms Aussie's are definitely Jammers! ​