Ana Horta
Chicago
Summary
Dedicated Assistant Animal Care Manager committed to excellence in animal welfare and team development. Experienced in implementing veterinary protocols, leading staff training, and optimizing operations to maintain a safe, compassionate, and efficient care environment.
Overview
8
8
years of professional experience
Work History
Assistant Animal Care Manager
PAWS Chicago
Chicago
10.2021 - Current
- Effectively communicated and oversaw daily care routines for all animals under PAWS’ care.
- Monitored and enforced adherence to health, safety, and welfare standards to maintain the highest quality of animal care.
- Responded promptly to emergencies involving injured or ill animals, remaining calm and professional in high-pressure situations.
- Oversaw and ensured adherence to proper nutrition, health, housing, and husbandry standards across all animal care operations.
- Provided guidance and direction to volunteer staff assisting with animal care duties.
- Oversaw regular inspections of animal enclosures to maintain a clean, safe, and compliant environment for all animals.
- Led training programs for part-time and full-time staff, ensuring proficiency in animal handling, safety procedures, and welfare standards.
- Efficiently handled multiple responsibilities and emergencies in a fast-paced environment, using strong judgment guided by company policies.
- Managed daily housing logistics for diverse animal populations—including transports, returns, strays, critical cases, owner surrenders, and outbreak management—while balancing workloads and maintaining seamless team operations.
Guest Relations Ambassador
John G. Shedd Aquarium
Chicago
07.2018 - 09.2021
- Delivered exceptional guest service by welcoming visitors, answering inquiries, and providing directions to enhance the overall guest experience.
- Supported guest engagement by offering concierge services, processing reservations, and identifying opportunities to enhance experiences through additional programs and offerings.
- Coordinated special events and managed ticketing and front-desk operations, ensuring smooth guest flow during peak times.
- Trained new staff on customer service procedures, aquarium policies, and best practices for resolving guest concerns professionally and efficiently.
- Ensured financial accuracy by managing cash and credit card transactions and verifying balanced registers at start and end of shifts.
Education
Associate of Arts - Undecided Health Care AGS
Harold Washington Community College
Chicago, IL12.2021
Skills
- Animal handling
- Operations management
- Staff training
- Team leadership
- Software proficiency
- Multitasking capacity
Languages
English
Professional
Spanish
Professional
Timeline
Assistant Animal Care Manager
PAWS Chicago
10.2021 - Current
Guest Relations Ambassador
John G. Shedd Aquarium
07.2018 - 09.2021
Associate of Arts - Undecided Health Care AGS
Harold Washington Community College