Dr. Michelle Campbell

How long have you been working as a zookeeper/vet/vet nurse?

I have been a vet for 8 years and have worked exclusively with zoo, wild and exotic animals for the last 4.5 years.

How did you get into zookeeping/vet/vet nursing as a profession?

After finishing high school, I completed a 3 year zoology degree which stimulated my interest in and passion for biology. I then undertook a 5 year veterinary degree to become a qualified veterinarian, thereby fulfilling a lifetime dream. After spending several interesting years in general mixed practice, I completed a 3 year residency program in exotic animal medicine and subsequently became a specialist vet by examination in zoo and wildlife medicine.

What do you love most about your job?

It is hard to pick out one specific aspect of my job that is better than any other: it is a fabulous job full-stop. I particularly enjoy being able to help animals that are ill or injured as well as having the opportunity to contribute to the conservation of endangered species by investigating health issues that might threaten their survival. Every day is different and so the sheer variety of work ensures that there is no chance of getting bored! Additionally, it is a pleasure to work closely with a team of people who are as passionate about animals as I am. 

What has been the wildest moment of your career so far?

Two truly wild experiences stand out for me - one was conducting a species survey in the Amazon forests of Peru, and the other was tracking snow leopards in the Altai Mountains of Russia. In terms of clinical work, being involved in performing root canal dentistry on a geriatric polar bear has also been a highlight.