Sam’s lifelong love for animals big and small, wild and domestic, started at a young age. She remembers sitting with a bowl of cheerios as a young girl working with her childhood rescue pup, Arby, delighted to watch his enthusiasm for learning.

Sam pursued this passion academically at the University of Nevada, Reno, earning a degree in Wildlife Ecology and Conservation. Her time at the local Wildlife Sanctuary, Animal Ark, deepened her love for wildlife, especially the elusive coyotes, kit foxes, arctic foxes, and the charming desert tortoise, Mr. Peabody.

After moving to Jackson in 2014, Sam expanded her horizons in the animal field at the Teton Raptor Center, where she worked as a field technician, studying various raptor species for nearly five years. Her career took a pivotal turn at Spring Creek Animal Hospital, where she found her true calling in working directly with people and their pets. Her dedication to animal welfare and rescue was further solidified at PAWS, where she recognized the critical need for behavior support within shelter systems.

Driven by this insight, Sam pursued the Dog Trainer Comprehensive Course in order to be able to better support both shelter residents and local pet owners. Now, as the Canine Behavior and Enrichment Coordinator at Aska’s Animals, Sam is excited to continue her journey of learning and growth. She is committed to helping pet owners and shelter partners better understand and support their canine companions, ensuring they feel their best and thrive in their environments.

When not at the farm in a puppy palace. You can find Sam on the trails running with her little rescue husky, Tini.