Hi everyone, new gal here

[animalelegirl]

Hi everyone I'm the new gal. Mid-30, female located in CA, USA. I was a zoo volunteer and animal sanctuary pachyderm keeper for about 7 years-LOVED IT!! Moved back home after the loss of my mom, to a small town with no zoological garden. Now I am ready to go back into the career that is so close to my heart! I would love to stay in CA preferably in the San Diego area, however the cost of homes are way to high for my budget (I have to purchase a home because I have dogs and cats-can be hard to find a rental that allows pets). Looking to relocate, possibly out of state if need be....wondering if anyone can give me any pointers, advise and/or what do you love about your zoo? Look forward to hearing from everyone...glad to be here!!

 

[bongorob]

Hi animalelegirl

 

[Arizona Docent]

Welcome - glad to have someone with working experience on the site. Most of us are just fans (though as my user name suggests I was a docent for many years).

As I am sure you know, being a zookeeper is an extremely competitive field. Even at the small zoo I volunteered at, they would get a hundred applications from all across the country for one opening. My advice (take it or leave it) is to find a zookeeper job anywhere you can and then move to that city based on it. A college degree in biology or zoology or the like is practically a requirement at most accredited zoos today.