MICHAEL RIGGS
Wellington,CO
Summary
Motivated Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) student with hands-on experience in mixed-animal medicine, marine mammal husbandry, and animal behavior. Retired U.S. Navy Chief Navy Diver with 21 years of operational experience in diverse environments. Committed to advancing wildlife conservation and ecosystem health through veterinary practices that support wildlife populations and enhance human-animal-environment interactions.
Overview
22
22
years of professional experience
Work History
Veterinary Extern
Perkins County Veterinary Hospital
Grant, NE
02.2025 - 08.2025
- Assisted with physical examinations, diagnostics, and treatment planning for companion animals and livestock in a rural mixed-animal practice.
- Monitored anesthesia and provided surgical support, including patient prep, instrument handling, and recovery care.
- Handled and restrained diverse species in clinical and field settings, tailoring techniques to each animal's temperament for optimal care.
- Conducted diagnostic procedures including lab testing, radiography, and case evaluations under veterinary supervision.
- Documented patient histories and maintained accurate medical records, ensuring compliance and continuity of care in rural veterinary practice.
- Participated in herd health assessments and accompanied field calls to ranches, contributing to improved animal wellness and client education.
Marine Mammal Handler
U.S. Navy Marine Mammal Program
San Diego, CA
07.2009 - 08.2012
- Performed daily husbandry, behavioral enrichment, operant conditioning training, and health monitoring for bottlenose dolphins and California sea lions supporting Navy operational readiness.
- Supported disease prevention programs through daily health monitoring, behavioral documentation, and early intervention protocols.
- Conducted behavioral observations to identify early health indicators, facilitating timely veterinary intervention for illness or stress.
- Assisted veterinary personnel with physical examinations, sample collection, and treatment procedures, enhancing overall health management of marine mammals.
- Maintained habitat quality and monitored environmental standards, ensuring optimal living conditions for marine mammals.
Chief Navy Diver (Retired)
U.S. Navy
01.2004 - 01.2025
- Led diving teams in remote operational environments worldwide, ensuring adherence to safety protocols and conducting training programs that enhanced operational readiness.
- Carried out salvage and recovery operations to support Navy missions effectively.
- Conducted underwater ship repair and maintenance for Navy vessels
- Inspected hulls, piers, and submerged structures for damage
Education
Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) -
Colorado State University
Fort Collins, CO03-2029
Bachelor of Science - Biological Sciences (Cell, Genetics, and Developmental Biology)
Arizona State University
Tempe, AZ03-2021
Skills
- Veterinary research and clinical studies
- Client communication and data documentation
- Animal handling and behavior observation
- Mixed animal husbandry and health evaluation
- Surgical support and laboratory sample handling
- Team collaboration and leadership
- Risk assessment and veterinary safety protocols
- Adaptability in veterinary practice
Personal Information
Title: DVM Student | Wildlife Medicine, Marine Mammal Care, Mixed-Animal Practice
PROJECTS
Street Dog Coalition Volunteer, 2026-10, Provided veterinary support for 79 dogs in underserved communities, assisting with wellness exams, vaccinations, and client education on preventive care.
Timeline
Veterinary Extern
Perkins County Veterinary Hospital
02.2025 - 08.2025
Marine Mammal Handler
U.S. Navy Marine Mammal Program
07.2009 - 08.2012
Chief Navy Diver (Retired)
U.S. Navy
01.2004 - 01.2025
Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) -
Colorado State University
Bachelor of Science - Biological Sciences (Cell, Genetics, and Developmental Biology)
Arizona State University