UCSF Fresno’s success and growth are a direct result of the dedication and inspiration of our faculty, staff, residents, fellows, students, alumni, partners, donors and friends. In each Focus, we introduce you to the people and in this case, a four-legged friend, who contributes to the greatness of UCSF Fresno through informal interviews.
In this issue, we feature Jillian, UCSF Fresno’s Therapy K9, who "matched" with us earlier this year thanks to a Wellness Mini-Grant.
What is your name? Nickname?
My name is Jillian, but hoomans call me "Jilly Bean," too!
What is your hometown? Where did you go to School?
I was born and raised in Fresno. I went to school for my Canine Good Citizen and Therapy Dog certifications at Off Leash K9 Training in Fresno.
What is your current position at UCSF Fresno? And how long have you worked here?
I am the UCSF Fresno Therapy K9, I have been here since Feb. 18 of this year.
What does a typical day look like for you?
That depends, if I come to work with Tom Johnson, director of UCSF Fresno Public Safety, I start my day early with a super special breakfast. Once we are at work, we start making our rounds to all UCSF Fresno departments. I love the smiles and affection (and sometimes snacks) that I get while doing this part of my job. I also get to run around outside in the Amphitheater. I enjoy making sure the squirrels know they are being watched and to stay in line.
The days that I don't work at UCSF Fresno, I go to the horse stables and run around with all the goats, horses and dogs there. The stable squirrels know I'm the boss there, too.
What is your favorite part of being the K9 therapy dog at UCSF Fresno?
The smiles. It is all the smiles I see when I walk into rooms and down the hallways. Hoomans seem to forget the stress of their day when they spend time with me, I love that! The scratches are cool, too. I do like those quite a bit.
Who is your favorite person at UCSF Fresno and why?
Don't tell him, but it's Tom. He spoils me on the days we spend together here at UCSF Fresno. He makes sure I get plenty of water and treats to keep me going. He lets me play outside on the grass all I want and helps me get into all the departments so I can spend time with all the other hoomans in the building.
What do you like to do in your free time?
I like to chat with neighbor dogs and sleep. I really love to sleep. Beauty sleep is very important, you know.
What is at the top of your professional and personal to-do lists?
I am currently working on my Advanced Canine Good Citizen certificate, because education and self-improvement are always important.
What would you like people to know about you that we didn't ask?
I would like everyone to know that I appreciate them just as much as they appreciate me. Tom and I are very thankful for the opportunity UCSF Fresno has given us, and we intend to bring smiles to work with us for a very long time to come. We truly love being part of this community.
To schedule a visit with Jillian aka “Jilly Bean,” complete and submit a request form. Please submit requests at least 72 hours in advance. Email [email protected] with any questions or to re-schedule.
