Kelli was born and raised on 14 acres in rural Michigan, where she developed a profound connection with wildlife and the outdoors from an early age. Her passion for animals led her to Michigan State University in 2004, where she studied Zoology with a special focus on Zoo and Aquarium Science. Kelli has extensive experience working with a wide variety of animals in a number of fields, including interning with AZA-accredited Binder Park Zoo, caring for both rodents and large hoofstock at MSU’s animal research facilities, and working as an assistant trainer with a focus on puppies, socialization, and behavior modification with Good Dog DC training studio. Kelli most recently worked as the Animal Care Manager for DC’s Humane Rescue Alliance, where she acquired nearly a decade’s experience in animal welfare and behavior.
In her free time, Kelli enjoys lazy days spent relaxing on the couch with her husband and their 3 giant dogs, Kayla, Ziggy, and Shy, and Bengal cats, Link and Zelda, watching the latest horror or sci-fi flick. She has a love for progressive metal and lives for a live show!
