Jenn shows off Miles, a Texas Tortoise, who is a resident animal at the ClinicHometown: Corpus Christi, TXSection: Clinic- Clinic KeeperSpecial Interests/ Hobbies:Anything outdoors, 4-wheeling in Goliad, TX and fishing.Interesting Fact:I have an identical twin sister.What made you want to become a zookeeper?I've always loved animals . I originally started volunteering in elephants and then was hired as a keeper there. I then transferred to the clinic so I could work with a greater variety of animals.How would you describe your job duties?As clinic keepers we are mainly in charge of daily husbandry. That means we clean, feed, medicate, and observe clinic “patients”. We also assist vets with treatments of the animals.We also maintain quarantine, and its animals. Zoo quarantine is not for sick animals, it is used to keep all incoming animals separate from the zoo collection until thoroughly examined and free of illnesses.Jenn assists the Zoo's Vets and Vet Techs with many procedures. Here she secures a dove while Vet Tech Ryanne tube feeds him.
What is a typical day like working in the clinic?
Every day is different, you never know what it will hold.
What is your education, training, and previous institution(s) you attended before coming to the Houston Zoo?
I have a one year certification from HCC as a veterinary paramedic.
What sort of advice would you give to anyone wanting to enter the zoo field?
Start volunteering and stick with it. It is a great way to get the experience zoos require and you have a greater chance of getting hired on when you have been a volunteer.
What is your favorite animal story?
My great-grandparents had a ranch in Goliad, TX where I spent a lot of time as a child. When I was about 10 I tried to get the goats and cows to like me and to approach me willingly. Finally, 2 bulls approached me and I was able to hand-feed them. All the time afterwards that they lived on my great-grandparent’s ranch, I could walk up to the fence and call them over and they would come running to me. That was my first big animal experience.
We are so proud of you Jennifer. Great job you do and we know you love it.
We love you
Toot & Pop Pop
to take care of snakes