Karina Avila
@karinaavila
Animal science professional specializing in canine training, research, and care.
What I'm looking for
I am an animal science graduate with hands-on experience in canine training, research, and wildlife rehabilitation. I combine practical animal husbandry skills with client-facing responsibilities to deliver high-quality care and measurable program results.
As an Assistant Manager and Dog Trainer, I trained dozens of dogs weekly across obedience, agility, and scent work while exceeding monthly training-package sales goals by 10–15% and managing facility operations. In research roles I coordinated cohorts, coded behavioral videos, prepared experimental setups, and administered care and medications for research animals.
I have internships in wildlife rehabilitation and equine-assisted therapy where I assisted with intake, feeding, rehabilitation operations, and supported hippotherapy session safety. I supplement my practical experience with volunteer work at local rescues and shelters, and I am an AKC Canine Good Citizen evaluator.
I am eager to apply my leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills in a full-time role that advances animal welfare and allows continued growth in training, research, or care-focused programs.
Experience
Work history, roles, and key accomplishments
Assistant Manager / Dog Trainer
ZoomRoom Dog Training
Jul 2024 - Present (1 year 4 months)
Managed daily facility operations and trained 30+ dogs weekly across obedience, agility, and scent work while negotiating client sales and exceeding monthly training-package targets by 10–15%.
Wildlife Rehabilitation Intern
South Plains Wildlife Rehabilitation Center
Jan 2024 - May 2024 (4 months)
Assisted with intake, feeding, handling, and daily rehabilitation operations for small mammals and birds to support recovery and release efforts.
Research Aid Coordinator
Canine Olfaction Research and Education Lab
May 2022 - May 2024 (2 years)
Coordinated three research cohorts, performed behavioral video coding and experimental prep including chemical dilutions, and provided weekly care and medication for eight dogs to support olfaction studies.
Equestrian Center Intern
Texas Tech Equestrian Center
Aug 2023 - Dec 2023 (4 months)
Supported hippotherapy sessions by assisting rider positioning and safety, and tracked session preparation and post-session equine care protocols.
Education
Degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework
Texas Tech University - College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources
Bachelor of Science, Companion Animal Science
Grade: GPA: 3.44
Activities and societies: Dean's List Spring 2021; President's List Fall and Spring 2023; Hispanic Student Society; Yellow Capped Raiders; volunteer work with Haven Rescue and Lubbock Animal Shelter
Completed a Bachelor of Science in Companion Animal Science with hands-on experience in animal care, research, and rehabilitation.
Availability
Location
Authorized to work in
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