About me
Hello, I'm Gabriella.
Hi hi, I am Gabriella, or Ella. I am originally from Boston, Massachusetts, but have lived in Rijswijk for seven years now. Animals have always been a huge part of my life. I grew up surrounded by dogs, cats, birds, horses and pretty much any creature that crossed my path. My childhood and love for animals were especially shaped by three unforgettable dogs. Two English Mastiffs, Otis and Hugo, and a Dachshund and Schnauzer mix named Kobe who, despite being the smallest, kept everyone in line. I have always believed that every animal has their own personality and I try to meet them exactly where they are. If they are shy, I take things slowly so they can build trust. If they are outgoing and full of energy, I am happy to match it.
Phoebe’s Place started because of my own dog. During my second to last year of university I decided to foster a dog from Spain. She had been horribly abused and needed more patience, love and time than I could have imagined, but watching her grow into the happy, confident dog she is today has been one of the most meaningful experiences of my life. Between caring for her and juggling university I realised that I genuinely enjoyed all the day to day dog things, the walks, the training, the routines and all the small moments of connection. On my days off I figured adding another dog or two into the mix was no problem. Just like that, Phoebe’s Place was born, named after the dog who started it all. Today, Phoebe’s Place is home to four resident animals and has become a second home to countless others. Every pet I meet is treated with the same care, patience and heart that helped my own dog heal.
- 7 years in Rijswijk
- Dogs & cats
- English · Nederlands
The residents
Phoebe
Senior Happiness and Emotional Support Specialist
A Spanish rescue I fostered in my second-to-last year at university, and the reason this place carries her name. She meets every new arrival at the door.
Beau
Head of Sniffing Operations
Younger, faster, considerably less wise. Excellent at convincing shy dogs that the garden is fun.
Pluto
Chief Cat Tree Operations Officer
Runs the cat tree and the living room. Tolerates dogs from a height of about one metre, not a centimetre lower.
Ramsay
Lobby Concierge and Neighbourhood Observation Specialist
Greets everyone at the door, then watches the street. Living proof that cats and dogs can share a house without any drama.
How I work
Small groups and the same routine every day, five pets instead of fifty, so I notice straight away when someone is off. A crate for a puppy's nap is fine here; being one of thirty dogs in a hall is not what I do.
Where I work
Rijswijk is home. I also collect and drop off in Voorburg and Den Haag for €10 per pet each way, and I know most of the green spots in between.
In an emergency
I always try you first. If I can't reach you, your vet release lets me get treatment straight away, which is why I ask for your vet's details up front.
Come and meet us
Every first booking starts with a meet & greet: twenty minutes to get to know each other, ask your questions and see whether it's a good fit.