Gillian Betz

General Practice Manager

Gillian Betz grew up in Sonoma County, California, or Wine Country as it's also known. Gillian came from a close-knit family, with five younger brothers. She stayed local for college, earning a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Anthropology with a minor in History, from Sonoma State University. Because of her degree and lifelong passion for animal welfare and animal rescue, she volunteered in South Africa for 5 weeks at a baboon orphanage. While there, Gillian lived among a semi-wild baboon troop, spent most of her day with infant baboons, and was able to go on Safari at the nearby Kruger National Park.

Gillian continued her education and pursued a Master of Science degree in the Human-Canine Bond. The courses touched on everything from evolution, genetics, behavior, ethics, and much more. While at Bergin College of Canine studies, she worked with puppies from 3 days old up to 18 months, all of whom would potentially go through Service Dog Training for the physically impaired. That was an eye-opening and trying experience. Gillian's focus throughout was on the ethics of using Military Working Dogs, and she ended up researching everything we'd learned throughout our courses, to include the bonds they develop with their handlers. Before coming to Colorado, Gillian managed a General Practice Veterinary Clinic in Sonoma County and has most recently managed an Animal Emergency Hospital in Monument, Colorado.

Gillian moved to Colorado Springs nearly 2 years ago for a change of pace and better cost of living. She now lives in Castle Rock with her boyfriend and their 2 dogs and cat. Bella (5) is a brindle Pitbull and Mouse (6) is a Chihuahua-Terrier mix. Aidan (9 months) is their tuxedo kitty. In her free time, Gillian likes to read and takes advantage of the many beautiful hiking spots in Colorado.