Sammuel Castro

Pre-veterinary student with extensive hands-on experience in large, small, and exotic animal medicine , with a strong foundation in beef cattle, equine care, and field-based diagnostics . Experienced in biological sample collection, cattle restraint, chute management, and assisting veterinarians in clinical and mobile settings. Supported multi-site bovine research across 30+ commercial farms through the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine. Founder and operator of two businesses, demonstrating leadership, initiative, and the ability to balance academic responsibilities with substantial professional, research, and volunteer commitments.

Research Assistant — University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine
Gainesville, FL | Feb 2024 – Present

Project: Ear Notch Collection from Florida Beef Cattle for BVDV Testing
PI: Dr. Joao Jabur Bittar

• Collected ear notch samples from cattle across 50+ farms to validate a novel BVDV diagnostic kit.
• Restrained cattle safely in chutes and implemented low-stress handling during on-farm sampling.
• Assisted in gathering control samples for RT-LAMP and lab-on-a-chip diagnostic evaluation.

Project: Optimal Timing for Vaccinating Pregnant Beef Heifers
PI: Dr. Joao Jabur Bittar

• Recorded cow ID, health status, and environmental factors during field sampling events.
• Assisted with blood collection and data documentation related to colostrum quality and antibody levels.
• Supported field teams in evaluating vaccination protocols in subtropical Florida systems.

Project: Placentome Biopsy at the End of Gestation in Cattle
PI: Dr. Pedro Monteiro

• Assisted with placental tissue sampling procedures and maternal hormonal monitoring.
• Documented field data and supported safe cattle restraint during late-gestation sampling.

Project: Impact of Acute and Chronic Stress on Reproductive Performance in Beef Cattle
PI: Dr. Pedro Monteiro

• Collected hair, blood, saliva, and fecal samples during multi-day sampling windows.
• Operated and assisted with chute functions during AI protocol evaluations.
• Supported ultrasonography prep and coordinated animal flow during reproductive assessments.

Pursuit Veterinary Services — Webster, FL
Jan 2025 – Present

• Assisted a mobile large-animal veterinarian during cattle, equine, and small ruminant farm calls.
• Supported procedures including dystocia assistance, euthanasia, herd health checks, and vaccinations.
• Restrained livestock, prepared medications, and assisted with on-site diagnostic procedures.
• Engaged in case discussions and clinical reasoning throughout the workday.

Equine Medical Center of Ocala — Ocala, FL
Dec 2023 – Feb 2024

• Monitored equine vitals during surgeries and treatments.
• Assisted with radiographs, catheter management, medication administration, and bandaging.
• Performed safe equine restraint, supported imaging procedures, and documented patient care.

All Care Animal Hospital — Minneola, FL
Jun 2023 – Dec 2023

• Restrained patients for exams, radiology, vaccination, and treatment.
• Prepared medications, cleaned wounds, and supported diagnostic imaging.
• Maintained sanitation, feeding schedules, and detailed patient records.

Bushnell, FL | Jul 2024 – Present

• Selected cattle for purchase and developed herd vaccination and deworming protocols.
• Managed cattle nutrition, feeding schedules, and health monitoring across multiple pastures.
• Performed routine livestock handling, sorting, and evaluation of herd condition.

Bushnell, FL | Apr 2022 – Present

• Directed cattle handling and chute operations during weekly team roping practices and competitions.
• Brought cattle from pasture to chute, applied protective gear, and removed unsuitable cattle.
• Coordinated flow and communication with roping teams to ensure safety and efficiency.

Bushnell, FL | Mar 2022 – Mar 2024

• Fed and monitored horses, cattle, and goats; identified signs of illness or abnormal behavior.
• Assisted with breeding management and neonatal care.
• Performed turnouts, pasture checks, and basic facility upkeep.

Webster, FL | Jul 2025 – Nov 2025

• Provided daily husbandry for exotic species including lemurs, porcupines, reptiles, and small mammals.
• Captured and restrained aggressive animals for exams and routine care.
• Assisted with goat vaccination and basic medical treatments for livestock and exotics.
• Supported enrichment design, habitat monitoring, and species-specific care routines.

Citra, FL | Volunteer

• Handled horses during therapeutic riding sessions for individuals with disabilities.
• Ensured rider safety and horse comfort while communicating with instructors and participants.

• Equine Technician Certificate — College of Central Florida (2023)
• IACUC Training Certificate — University of Florida
• FAA Drone Pilot License
• SCUBA Certification — Pending (to be completed prior to VMCAS submission)

• C# and Unity programming
• Ranch infrastructure repair (fencing, water lines, gates)
• Equipment operation and maintenance