Millena Vargas
Jacksonville,FL
Summary
Exceptional Anthrozoology Master of Science student and certified dog trainer with a background in veterinary medicine, animal rescue, and psychology. Passionate about animal behavior and dedicated to improving animal welfare through scientific research and evidence-based practices. Proven expertise in integrating academic knowledge with practical experience to enhance animal welfare.
Overview
8
8
years of professional experience
Work History
Founder and Dog Trainer
Golden Standard Pet Services
Jacksonville, FL
08.2023 - Current
- Established and managed all aspects of the business.
- Provided balanced dog training and behavior modification.
- Developed tailored training programs for clients and their dogs.
- Conducted assessments to identify training needs and goals.
- Fostered positive relationships with clients through effective communication.
- Organized workshops and community events to promote dog training.
- Managed scheduling and logistics for training sessions.
- Oversaw business operations, including marketing and finances.
- Ensured a safe and supportive environment for training and learning.
Undergraduate Teaching Assistant
University Of Central Florida
Clinical Psychology & Psychology Of Women
08.2021 - 05.2024
- Graded assignments, proctored tests, and provided constructive feedback to students based on results.
- Supported classroom activities, tutoring, and reviewing work.
- Studied and implemented latest information on specific subjects and learning strategies.
- Partnered with teacher to plan and implement lessons following school's curriculum, goals, and objectives.
Medical Director
Second Chance Dog Rescue
San Diego, CA
10.2022 - 08.2023
- Led diverse team of medical and administrative professionals in day-to-day clinic activities such as patient care, new business development and patient relations.
- Optimized case and clinical management and recommended plans to improve safety and health programs.
- Verified effective, consistent communication between department heads, medical staff and governing boards through board meeting attendance and synchronization of interdepartmental functions.
- Improved patient outcomes and delivery of care through improved clinical quality processes.
Locum Veterinary Technician
Vetco Total Care
San Diego, CA
01.2022 - 01.2023
- Provided care for animals before surgeries, administering anesthetics as necessary for overall comfort and health.
- Administered medications to animals in treatment and documented changes in condition.
- Answered owner animal health questions and advised on best care practices.
- Recorded symptoms and documented medical observations to inform treatment decisions.
- Collected patient biopsies and blood samples for laboratory analysis.
- Managed medical intervention and therapy for animals in collaboration with veterinarian.
- Assisted veterinarian during surgical procedures by creating and maintaining unobstructive surgical fields and passing instruments.
- Prepared, sterilized and maintained medical instruments and equipment.
Veterinary Assistant/Shift Lead
Banfield Pet Hospital
Orlando, FL
12.2020 - 02.2022
- Conducted preliminary patient workups including gathering patient history information, description of symptoms from owner, and documenting presenting condition.
- Cared for animals pre-surgery, including administering anesthetics.
- Administered medications to animals in treatment on regular, scheduled basis and documented any changes in condition.
- Recorded symptoms and documented medical observations to inform treatment decisions.
- Managed medical intervention and therapy for animals in collaboration with veterinarian.
- Fostered excellence by example by "setting pace" and being hands on mentor to clinical staff.
- Conducted routine facility inspections, identifying areas needing improvement and eliminating hazards posed to staff and residents for continued compliance with associated regulations.
Marine Turtle Research Intern
University Of Central Florida
05.2022 - 08.2022
- Analyzed data to determine appropriate ways to protect wildlife ecosystems.
- Investigated living and environmental conditions of sea turtles and determined solutions to habitat issues.
- Handled specimens and conducted tests according to established protocols, keeping efficient records on all experiments.
- Collaborated with stakeholders to identify new methods to protect loggerhead, leatherback and green turtles.
Veterinary Receptionist
Veterinary Emergency Clinic Of Central Florida
Orlando, FL
09.2019 - 05.2021
- Evaluated incoming patients to determine treatment needs and urgency of care.
- Greeted pet parents with warm smile and pleasantly asked for sign-ins upon arrival.
- Monitored health and behavior of animals by looking for urine and fecal output, completing weight checks and observing appetite during feeding.
- Entered data from pet records and office visits into computer system using Cornerstone.
- Provided exemplary customer service to owners by answering animal health questions and educating about positive animal care practices.
Founder and Director
BGM Animal Rescue
Orlando, FL
07.2019 - 01.2020
- Developed and implemented the organization’s vision and goals.
- Managed staff, volunteers, and animal care programs.
- Personally cared for and fostered animals.
- Started collaborations with veterinary clinics for support.
- Developed systems to control intakes and adoptions.
- Oversaw fundraising strategies and financial management.
- Built partnerships and advocated for animal welfare.
- Executed marketing and community outreach initiatives.
- Ensured compliance with animal care regulations.
- Maintained operations and safety protocols.
Veterinary Assistant
Pet Alliance Of Greater Orlando
Orlando, FL
08.2016 - 08.2019
- Provided care for animals before and after surgeries, administering anesthetics as necessary and recovering animals from anesthesia.
- Cleaned and disinfected exam areas, surgical equipment and kennels to prevent diseases and control odors.
- Positioned animals for diagnostic imaging such as x-rays and scans.
- Administered medications to animals in treatment and documented changes in condition.
- Recorded symptoms and documented medical observations to inform treatment decisions.
Education
Master Of Science - Anthrozoology
Canisius University
Buffalo, NY05.2026
Dog Training Certification - Professional Obedience And Behavior Modification
Tarheel Canine Training
Sanford, NC06.2024
Bachelor of Science - Clinical Psychology
University of Central Florida
Orlando, FL05.2024
Skills
- Human-Animal Interaction Analysis
- Animal Behavior Assessment and Modification
- Obedience training
- Veterinary Care and Procedures
- Wildlife Rehabilitation and Care
- Animal Welfare Advocacy
- Creative Problem-Solving
- Client Communication and Support
- Business Management
- Brand development
- Marketing Strategies
- Team Leadership and Training
Accomplishments
Awarded the most requested associate at Banfield Pet Hospital Orlando in 2021.
Languages
English
Native or Bilingual
Portuguese
Native or Bilingual
Spanish
Full Professional
Timeline
Founder and Dog Trainer
Golden Standard Pet Services
08.2023 - Current
Medical Director
Second Chance Dog Rescue
10.2022 - 08.2023
Marine Turtle Research Intern
University Of Central Florida
05.2022 - 08.2022
Locum Veterinary Technician
Vetco Total Care
01.2022 - 01.2023
Undergraduate Teaching Assistant
University Of Central Florida
08.2021 - 05.2024
Veterinary Assistant/Shift Lead
Banfield Pet Hospital
12.2020 - 02.2022
Veterinary Receptionist
Veterinary Emergency Clinic Of Central Florida
09.2019 - 05.2021
Founder and Director
BGM Animal Rescue
07.2019 - 01.2020
Veterinary Assistant
Pet Alliance Of Greater Orlando
08.2016 - 08.2019
Master Of Science - Anthrozoology
Canisius University
Dog Training Certification - Professional Obedience And Behavior Modification
Tarheel Canine Training
Bachelor of Science - Clinical Psychology
University of Central Florida