The inspirational woman ensuring the well-being of over 5,000 animals at Walt Disney World breaking barriers in a male-dominated field
In a celebration of International Women’s Day, we’re spotlighting extraordinary women who’ve shattered boundaries in a once male-dominated domain. They helm the team responsible for the welfare of over 5,000 animals at Walt Disney World Resort, setting an example for young girls everywhere.
Dr. Jen and Dr. Natalie stand at the forefront of the veterinary team overseeing the health of every animal at Walt Disney World. While the team now predominantly comprises women, both doctors remember a different era.
“Every clinic that I had been at was very male-dominated. Honestly, wanting to do something like aquarium and zoo medicine is challenging. You are often told that you won’t be able to do it. When you have a male-dominated field, being a woman makes it more challenging. It is something that I was determined to overcome,” shared Dr. Natalie.
Balancing the roles of a working mom, they believe, has deeply influenced how they approach their work.
“We have empathy, sympathy, and the same characteristics that we take home with our children when we are treating and caring for these animals,” explained Dr. Jen.
According to Dr. Natalie, “It does help me when I am trying to work with other moms to understand what they’re trying to do. But then we have animals that are moms, too, right? We’re able to understand what they need and what’s happening.”
Dr. Natalie highlighted their concern for safety around wild animals as well. “Yes. Last week, actually, I had a hippo startle me. Maybe not scared, but I had her startle me. I was trying to do a treatment on her, and she lifted her head up her head was so big and heavy that when she lifted it up and she opened her mouth and she was near me, I got a little bit nervous. But you know what? She wanted snacks.”
These veterinarians epitomize strength and fearlessness, with a vital message to share.
“I think what I always say is where there’s a will, there’s a way. And if you have a dream, you have to go for it. Be persistent and you can make it there. You really can. And I think the women here at Disney are proof of that. You work hard and you can succeed,” declared Dr. Jen.
According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, about two-thirds of all veterinarians are women, while one-third are men. This trend is reflected in Disney’s Animals, Science, and Environment health team, which has 57 female and 14 male cast members, including veterinarians, veterinary technicians, and hospital keepers.
Sources:
- https://youtu.be/5Kc9wvn8LhI?si=Eg3Z4D6JFlknrqe-
- https://www.wesh.com/article/disney-women-veterinarians/43252264#
- https://www.wdw-magazine.com/disneys-female-veterinarians-take-lead-role-caring-for-creatures-great-and-small/
- https://chat.openai.com/
- https://readloud.net/
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