WHO
WE ARE
TEAM MEMBERS.
Matthew Simmons
FOUNDER & DIRECTOR
A decorated US Navy combat veteran, Matthew has spent the last fifteen years dedicated to protecting wolves and rehabilitating Veterans suffering from PTSD and other war injuries. With over a decade of front-line animal rescue and advocacy, he has a long, proven history of managing large rescues, singular fundraising capabilities, and oversight of wildlife sanctuaries. He has personally helped hundreds of animals and Veterans achieve better lives and safety within sanctuary. His partnerships throughout the animal rescue world enable his efforts to be far-reaching and productive.
rebecca Richard, DVM
VETERINARIAN
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Dr. Richard graduated from the UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine in 2001 and practiced large animal ambulatory medicine for over a decade before turning full-time to zoo and exotic species. She has worked at major municipal zoos and wildlife sanctuaries in addition to serving as a professor of animal care and husbandry. She has published in peer-reviewed journals and veterinary texts on anesthesia of zoo and exotic species. Dr. Richard cares for animals of all sizes and shapes with special interest in apex predators and wildlife. Her professional areas of expertise include rescue, disaster and emergency preparedness, and field anesthesia. Her practice brings preventative field-based medicine to sanctuaries across the US, providing cutting-edge medicine and husbandry management.
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Jeanette Tonnies
REGISTERED VETERINARY TECHNICIAN
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Jeanette was chief technician at Los Angeles Zoo for 30 years and has worked on just about every animal that walks, swims or flies. She brings expertise and field medicine skills to rescues and veterinary missions. With expertise in field anesthesia and a background as a primate keeper, Jeanette is an incredible, dedicated caregiver and teacher who has been welcomed by sanctuaries across the country for her unique skillset and compassionate care.
