Hello! My name is Gillian. I am 21 years old and a recent graduate of Biola University with a degree in Intercultural Studies and International Development. Friends who know me well would describe me as someone who seriously loves dogs. Seriously. I grew up with a yellow lab named Strider, and now have a bearded collie mix/mut rescue-pup named Gimli. He, however, lives back in Minnesota with my family. Both Strider and Gimli have provided me with comfort and solace, peace, sweet joy. And, of course, best friendship. I have extensive experience and am committed to caring for them well--with the intent to promote a good balance between attention and independence. While my home does not have a big backyard, I live just down the street from various trailed and wide-open parks. Additionally, my neighborhood is friendly and safe for short walks--I live in a gated community with minimal/slow residential traffic. As I live close to some great parks, any dog I sit for the day will get to both walk on-leash amidst calm but beautiful surroundings and, if well-trained, run around freely. There are often other dogs found at the park playing fetch, basking in the sun, or enjoying the company of other pups (so your dog will have ample opportunity to socialize). There will also be plenty of down-time--either inside at my house, which has an open floor plan, or outside in the yard or at the park. As I very much love dogs, I am devoted to giving them active and invested attention--with both exuberance and patience. Their happy is my happy.