Hi my name is Heather and I have an extensive professional animal care and training background. In 2018 I moved to the Santa Ynez Valley (for family reasons) after spending eight years living in San Diego and working at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. I was an animal trainer working with a wide variety of mammal, bird, and reptile animal ambassadors. My job consisted of zookeeping duties, animal training and public education about wildlife. In 2008 I graduated from a specialized zoo keeping program in Florida called Santa Fe College Zoo Animal Technology. I have been professionally employed at not only zoos but also a doggie daycare, the Escondido Human Society, and a veterinarian clinic. Since leaving my position at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park I have been working as a wildlife field biologist doing a variety of seasonal field positions. Between 2019 and 2023 I have worked on and off on the California Channel Islands as an island fox technician. In early 2022 I did a seasonal position in remote areas of Oregon and Colorado working with conservation scent detection dogs. I have had many special dogs, cats and other pets through out my life, and my love of animals runs so incredibly deeply. I will treat your pet with tremendous amounts of love and kindness. With me, your pet will no doubt be cared for responsibly but also with a caring and attentive approach. Animals are my passion and my understanding of animal care, behavior and training is very in-depth. My knowledge and background will translate to your pet having all of their needs met, and being very happy and well cared for. I am an outdoorsy and active person so if your pet enjoys being active outside we will be a great match!