Gillian C.
Bedlington
Flexible rates & all pets welcome! Let's talk!
Pet care experience
Hello! My name is Gillian and I've been pet-sitting for just over 6 years. I pride myself not only in providing quality pet care but also in remaining flexible when it comes to pet-sitting rates and location. Challenge me, it's what I enjoy! I myself own a re-homed Parsons Terrier called Maxi who has lots of energy and who adores long walks. I'm very used to having to be an intuitive carer who needs to provide lots of attention as well as those all-important adventures outside! Maxi is happy to join me on pet-care adventures but is equally happy to stay behind with my partner when it is more appropriate for me to work solo. Simply let me know your preferences. I'm open to pet-sitting within your own home as well as offering drop-in visits and dog-walking. When pet-sitting, I'm able to stay overnight as well as doing several daily walks throughout my stay. I'm keen to get more active so the longer the walk the better! I've previously volunteered as a dog-walker for a local kennel as well as having owned dogs, cats, birds, fish and a tortoise. I'm a qualified zoologist and I love all sorts of different animals and the qualities that make them unique. If the rates on Rover horrify you, feel free to talk to me obligation-free. Wondering if you can sneak the dog past the hotel reception in a suitcase to keep your holiday costs down? Message me. I've been the dog-owner on a ridiculously tight budget thanks to unemployment, patchy freelance and university study. I too am feeling the rising cost of living and understand you may want solid pet care while also watching the pennies. Isn't that most of us right now? I love to go out walking and it never feels quite right without a dog by my side, so you'll be making my day if you have a pup who loves to get out & about for lengthy strolls. Cuddles on the couch with a cat and time spent with quirky birds, reptiles, rodents and fish also make being a pet-sitter a wonderfully diverse experience. Within the home, I aim to give pets a balance between attention and rest, ensuring they are happy whilst also keeping the boredom at bay. I aim to be flexible on my rates wherever possible. Simply let me know what you require when it comes to your pet care requirements, and I will be able to tailor an estimate specifically for you and your animal(s). Please feel free to contact me with any queries you may have - I'll be more than happy to discuss your pet's needs and preferences.
Reviews
Gillian looked after Benson and Lola and I couldn’t be happier. From the first message Gillian has been great, very helpful and friendly. Gillian sent regular pictures which I thought was lovely. Cannot wait for Gillian to look after them both again. I didn’t worry once when I was away and knew they were in the best hands! Thank you again.
Gillian looked after Dot while we were away on holiday for a week. This is the second time she has looked after her and we couldn’t be happier with the service. We got plenty photo updates while we were away which we loved, and we could tell how relaxed and content Dot was.
Jinn was so happy to see Gillian again. She’s his favourite sitter! She takes such great care of him and we are always happy we can book her!
Gillian has been very accommodating to the needs of Obi, first visit went very well
About Gillian C.
Communication
Skills
Safety, trust & environment
While many dog owners ask me to walk their dog as soon as I arrive at a property, I tend to hold back just a little while to give your animal space to come to me. I am patient and adaptable. I adjust my care depending on what an owner has told me as well as what I observe while visiting or staying in your home.
Information Gillian C. would like to know about your pet
I'd like to know as much as possible about your pet and am very happy to do a meet & greet appointment so that you can see who will be caring for your companion. Ideally I'd like to know the breed and age of your pet, diet preferences, whether there are any medical conditions or challenging behaviours I need to be aware of as well as some owner contact details in case I need to get in touch while caring for your pet.
A typical day
I'm happy to walk in town on ground that's already familiar to your pet or wander further afield. We can walk in the local streets, within a nature reserve, out in the countryside or simply play in the garden. Testing weather and mud is not a problem, it all adds to the challenge! In addition to walking, we can play fetch or try some training together too. I'm open to bringing my Parsons Terrier (Maxi) along for additional doggie companionship if you think this would benefit your dog and his/her socialisation with other dogs.
Services
Gillian can watch in your home
Availability
I'm currently studying for a Masters in History (via an online degree) so you'll likely spot some textbooks and a laptop accompanying me to my pet-sits. This keeps me busy as your pet snoozes between walks, play and snuggles. I study remotely and on a flexible basis, leaving good availability to look after your pet throughout my stay.
About Gillian C.
Communication
Skills
Safety, trust & environment
While many dog owners ask me to walk their dog as soon as I arrive at a property, I tend to hold back just a little while to give your animal space to come to me. I am patient and adaptable. I adjust my care depending on what an owner has told me as well as what I observe while visiting or staying in your home.
Information Gillian C. would like to know about your pet
I'd like to know as much as possible about your pet and am very happy to do a meet & greet appointment so that you can see who will be caring for your companion. Ideally I'd like to know the breed and age of your pet, diet preferences, whether there are any medical conditions or challenging behaviours I need to be aware of as well as some owner contact details in case I need to get in touch while caring for your pet.
A typical day
I'm happy to walk in town on ground that's already familiar to your pet or wander further afield. We can walk in the local streets, within a nature reserve, out in the countryside or simply play in the garden. Testing weather and mud is not a problem, it all adds to the challenge! In addition to walking, we can play fetch or try some training together too. I'm open to bringing my Parsons Terrier (Maxi) along for additional doggie companionship if you think this would benefit your dog and his/her socialisation with other dogs.
Location
Bedlington, United Kingdom
Pets
Gillian C.
Bedlington