Who's who at Aspen Valley Wildlife Sanctuary

 

Aspen Valley is incredibly fortunate to have in its employ a group of fine people with a common goal as their first priority – the welfare of the animals. Our people come to us with the full knowledge that the Sanctuary is not a “9-5 job”. It’s a full-time responsibility, and a 24/7 dedication. Our people have the knowledge, experience, dedication, patience and, most of all, the heart and compassion to care for and nurture wildlife.

Marilyn Cole

Marilyn arrived on September 14, 2009 fresh from a two year North American tour accompanied by her good buddy Ripley, her Jack Russel. Marilyn spent 22 years as a Zookeeper at the Toronto Zoo where she helped to raised everything from cockroaches to Great Apes. Marilyn is the voice at the end of the telephone line when calls from the public are made to advise of injured and orphaned animals. She is the office “gatekeeper” making sure that Aspen Valley Wildlife Sanctuary functions in an organized and efficient manner. Marilyn’s experience and knowledge is very much welcomed and appreciated.

Brenda Kingshott

Brenda, the “energizer bunny” of Rehabbers comes to Aspen Valley Wildlife Sanctuary with a history of experience with animals. From her early days on the farm to her present role as Vice-President of Parry Sound Animals Rescue, Brenda’s commitment to animal’s welfare is only exceeded by her incredible energy. It is nothing to Brenda to accomplish in one day that which would take the average person two days. We get tired just watching her. A woman of integrity, compassion and experience, she has become invaluable to Aspen Valley Wildlife Sanctuary.

Jock McPhee

Jock comes to AVWS having spent most of his career in the aircraft industry and other manufacturing operations including working on all types of equipment and engines. Needless to say his talents in these areas shall be utilized on a regular basis. With his incredible organizational skills (that's him with the clipboard and pen), his amazing work ethic and his plethora of skills we are seeing a great deal of action and results. All of this, combined with Jock's commitment and affection for animals makes him a welcome asset to AVWS.

Janalene Kingshott

The old expression about “still waters running deep” applies to this remarkable woman. Truly Janalene has on more than one occasion displayed “grace under fire” Her physical strength is only exceeded by her intelligence and her integrity. Janalene has brought with her a great deal of experience of working with large mammals which she utilizes virtually everyday at the Sanctuary. Responsible for bear, moose, deer, wolves and coyotes, Janalene is responsible for the incredible improvement that we have seen in these animals since her arrival. Notably is the condition and the behaviour of our resident wolves. As a result of Janalene’s efforts in feeding and enrichment these beautiful animals have literally taken on a new lease on life. Janalene is the go to person for the 2009/10 Bear Study and as a result is busy working to ensure the success of this invaluable research.