Annabel Desmet Email & Phone Number

United States

Provided care to both large and small hoofstock species in the Africa loop with the goal of improving animal wellbeing beyond AZA standards. This involved completing daily tasks as a team and independently as required, including prepping and feeding out diets, cleaning and disinfecting holdings, and providing species-appropriate enrichment. In addition, identified and pulled toxic plants to prevent animals from becoming ill. Daily tasks also required learning to drive a tractor (compact/sub-compact), learning to drive manual, and driving large trucks around exhibit areas. Due to constant changes and improvements in the industry, spent time both in and outside of work staying up to date with animal SOPs, chemical safety data sheets, and animal wellbeing research. Closely observed animals throughout the day, writing extensive notes on behavior and wellbeing in ACS, ZIMS, and Microsoft Word and Excel. Immediately communicated health and behavioral issues and safety concerns with animal management. Enthusiastically answered guest questions about African animals and zoo work.

Florida, United States

Worked with a team to provide care to the 30+ species of animals on the safari with the goal of improving animal wellbeing. This included completing daily tasks as a team and alone as required, prepping and feeding out diets, cleaning holdings, and providing species-appropriate enrichment. In addition, I closely observed animals throughout the day, noting any health issues or behavioral issues that need addressing. In addressing these concerns, I assisted with veterinary appointments and the movement of animals to other areas of the safari as needed, as well as providing followup care per vet and management's instructions. Though most of my work was with animals, the safari team also monitored safari guests throughout the day, taking appropriate action to ensure that both guests and animals remain safe. I also provided private safari tours and assisted in giraffe painting experiences, using both as an opportunity to teach guests about animals and answer any questions that arise about animal care, behavior, and conservation.

Lincoln, Nebraska, United States

Assisted keepers in caring for animals in the animal department. This included cleaning, preparing and feeding diets, and providing enrichment.

Lincoln, Nebraska, United States

Assisted keepers in caring for animals in the ambassador animal department. This included cleaning, preparing and feeding diets, and providing enrichment. Also assisted in setting up for stage programs, as well as giving small educational demonstrations.

Worked with a team under Dr. Michelle Szydlowski on research related to captive elephants in Chitwan, Nepal. Spent two weeks in Nepal conducting interviews and collecting data, and continued to work on data analysis and literature reviews after the field work was completed.

Leesburg, Florida, United States

Experience as a writing consultant and as a teaching assistant in a class on critical thinking, organismal biology, and animal husbandry.

Worked as a team to construct projects, research academic literature, and collect and analyze data. Beyond this summer internship, I continued work throughout the semester that resulted in two academic journal publications with Dr. Brian Ogle.

Ocala, Florida, United States

Helped manage horses for riding lessons, assisted in riding lessons, and educated visitors about equine wellbeing and management. Worked with a wide variety of ages (from 2-70+) to provide safe and positive experiences with horses. Also tended to basic equine husbandry and health needs (treating small wounds and infections, bathing, giving water and feed, etc.).