After recognizing her love for animals and conservation, Alanea’s professors encouraged her to pursue a career in zoology and personally introduced her to staff members at the local zoo. That led to Alanea completing internships at the Pittsburgh Zoo and a local veterinary office.

Upon graduation, she accepted a full-time zookeeper position at a small zoo where she worked with the snow leopard, cheetahs, bears, and zebras.

From there, Alanea joined Audubon Zoo as an African Carnivore Keeper, caring for and training four African lions. She also offered the cats enrichment and husbandry training, which means the animals actually participate in their own care. For instance, they stand up so that their abdomens and toe pads can be inspected, and open and hold their mouths for dental checks.

Alanea is currently Area Supervisor at Pueblo Zoo.