Gina G.
Oak Park, IL
Treating your BFF like my own!
Pet care experience
My first experience with taking care of an animal alone was when I raised my parents' dog as a new puppy while they were at work and I was home alone from high school over summer break. He was so challenging but grew up to be quite the little gentleman! I currently have had my own dog, Binx, since 2018, and I take care of him all on my own. He was labeled special needs at the shelter due to his high anxiety, but I've helped him become more confident through training, socialization, and some extra love. I also frequently pet-sit my friends' cats when they are out of town -- changing litter boxes, feeding them, and playing with them a few times a week!
Reviews
I have known Gina for years. Not only is she extremely smart (a Northwestern Grad) but she has a wonderful, loving touch with animals. She currently cares for her special needs chihuahua who was a rescue and needs special care. She is patient with him and just really loves animals. I would trust her with any of my pets.
About Gina G.
Communication
Skills
Safety, trust & environment
I am unable to care for pets in my own home, simply due to space and for the comfort of my own dog. However, I am extra attentive to any pet's needs in their own environment or when out in public. Since my dog is easily overstimulated in new surroundings, I am very respectful of animals' individual personalities and needs in any settings, since I am familiar with little guys and gals that are not always happy-go-lucky. I crate my own dog when I am not home due to his separation anxiety (it helps him a lot, and he gets special Kong treats every time), so I am also familiar with that process. I treat any pets the way I hope someone would treat my own best bud, which includes doing my best to ensure their safety and happiness at all times!
Information Gina G. would like to know about your pet
Let me know of any special needs or behaviors that I should be aware of in order to make your pet the most comfortable. My own dog has special needs, so I understand your concern for them!
A typical day
I love to play with dogs in any way they prefer! My own dog likes to be chased in circles and to complete puzzle games. I let dogs smell all the smells they want on walks (as long as they are safe smells), and stop as many times as they need to. If they want to cuddle, that's a bonus for me! If not, I respect their space! Every dog is different, and I do my best to read their language to understand what they need from me. I also seem to have a way with cats! I'm quiet and reserved, much like them, so they know I understand what they need. I love to make them chase their toys and strings, and know every cat has individual likes and dislikes.
Services
Gina can watch in your home
Availability
I currently work full-time, M-F, 9:30am-5pm, but I am available to slip away for breaks during that time, and am fully available before and after. I am also fully available on weekends and evenings - except during Bears season when I play for their Drumline on Sundays!
About Gina G.
Communication
Skills
Safety, trust & environment
I am unable to care for pets in my own home, simply due to space and for the comfort of my own dog. However, I am extra attentive to any pet's needs in their own environment or when out in public. Since my dog is easily overstimulated in new surroundings, I am very respectful of animals' individual personalities and needs in any settings, since I am familiar with little guys and gals that are not always happy-go-lucky. I crate my own dog when I am not home due to his separation anxiety (it helps him a lot, and he gets special Kong treats every time), so I am also familiar with that process. I treat any pets the way I hope someone would treat my own best bud, which includes doing my best to ensure their safety and happiness at all times!
Information Gina G. would like to know about your pet
Let me know of any special needs or behaviors that I should be aware of in order to make your pet the most comfortable. My own dog has special needs, so I understand your concern for them!
A typical day
I love to play with dogs in any way they prefer! My own dog likes to be chased in circles and to complete puzzle games. I let dogs smell all the smells they want on walks (as long as they are safe smells), and stop as many times as they need to. If they want to cuddle, that's a bonus for me! If not, I respect their space! Every dog is different, and I do my best to read their language to understand what they need from me. I also seem to have a way with cats! I'm quiet and reserved, much like them, so they know I understand what they need. I love to make them chase their toys and strings, and know every cat has individual likes and dislikes.
Location
Oak Park, IL
Pets
Gina G.
Oak Park, IL