Kimberly Parise
Chicago
Summary
Recent college graduate with hands-on experience in animal care, husbandry, and enrichment through internships and professional roles at Zoo Miami and PetSmart. Skilled in monitoring animal health, assisting with animal training and enrichment activities, administering medications, and maintaining safe, clean, and engaging habitats. Strong team collaborator with experience in record keeping, guest education, and physically demanding environments. Passionate about advancing animal welfare and contributing to conservation-focused institutions.
Overview
2026
2026
years of professional experience
Work History
Animal Care Intern
Zoo Miami
- Independently carried out daily animal care tasks, including feeding, cleaning enclosures, and performing wellness checks.
- Prepared and distributed species-appropriate diets following established nutritional guidelines
- Monitored animal health, behavior, and activity levels, accurately logging and reporting all concerns.
- Assisted with animal training sessions and behavioral enrichment activities
- Maintained detailed daily logs and records related to animal care, behavior, and enclosure conditions
- Followed strict animal handling and safety protocols while working around venomous and high-risk species
- Maintained exhibits by cleaning and performing upkeep to support animal welfare and guest experience
- Worked collaboratively with keepers and other departments to support animal care and zoo operations
Pet Care Specialist
PetSmart
05.2020 - Current
- Provided daily care for a wide variety of animals, including feeding, cleaning habitats, and monitoring health
- Independently assessed and managed animal behavior and physical condition.
- Administered prescribed medications and basic treatments to animals in accordance with company protocols and veterinary guidance
- Maintained clean, safe, and species-appropriate enclosures using approved tools and chemical agents
- Educated customers on proper animal care, nutrition, habitat setup, and enrichment
- Followed strict animal welfare, safety, and sanitation standards in compliance with company policies
- Assisted with inventory management of animal care supplies and equipment
- Balanced animal care responsibilities with customer service in a fast-paced retail environment
Education
Bachelor of Science - Zoology
Olivet Nazarene University
Bourbonnais, IL05-2025
Skills
- Animal Handling
- Animal Husbandry
- Behavioral Observation and Monitoring
- Behavioral Enrichment Planning
- Record Keeping and Reporting
- Administration of Medications
Timeline
Pet Care Specialist
PetSmart
05.2020 - Current
Animal Care Intern
Zoo Miami
Bachelor of Science - Zoology
Olivet Nazarene University