Kathryn Day
4904 N Lenhard Lane
Deer Park, WA 99006
(509) 993-4179
daykat@oregonstate.edu
Professional Summary
Graduate student in Fisheries Ecology at Oregon State University with a B.S. in Ecology and Environmental Sciences (Magna Cum Laude) from Washington State University. Experienced certified veterinary technician with more than 15 years of work involving wildlife handling, laboratory sample processing, and aquatic animal care. Skilled in specimen handling, medical procedures, and field research activities including shark tagging and fisheries field techniques. Interested in contributing to fisheries and aquatic ecology research through data analysis, field support, and scientific writing.
Education
Oregon State University – Corvallis, OR
Master’s Program, Fisheries Ecology (In Progress)
Graduate Certificate in Fisheries Management (Expected completion 2027)
• Current research focus: invasive species in the PNW
Washington State University – Pullman, WA
Bachelor of Science, Ecology and Environmental Sciences — December 2023
Magna Cum Laude
Yakima Valley Community College – Yakima, WA
Veterinary Technician Program — June 2006
Graduated with Honors
Research Experience
Research Assistant
Saving the Blue – Andros, Bahamas
Nov 26 – Dec 2, 2023
- Assisted with capture, tagging, and release of multiple shark species.
- Deployed and retrieved fishing gear used for shark capture.
- Assisted with securing and restraining sharks alongside research vessels.
- Helped fit sharks with identification tags (dart tags and PIT tags) and tracking devices including acoustic and satellite transmitters.
Professional Experience
Certified Veterinary Technician (Credential #AT60010803)
Mt. Spokane Veterinary Hospital – Spokane, WA
2008 – Present
- Managed wildlife rehabilitation cases and assisted with treatment of injured wildlife.
- Performed medical procedures including venipuncture, fine needle biopsies, vaccination administration, and surgical preparation.
- Assisted with anesthesia, sedation, and intubation for surgical procedures.
- Conducted laboratory diagnostics including urinalysis, fecal flotation, parasite identification, and cytology preparation.
- Maintained detailed medical records, radiographs, and laboratory reports including controlled substance documentation.
- Served as Head Technician overseeing handling and care of exotic animal patients.
- Provided client education and collaborated closely with veterinary staff during medical emergencies.
Certified Veterinary Technician & Healthcare Advisor
Blue Zoo Aquarium
2020 – 2022
- Managed feeding preparation for aquatic species and reptiles.
- Transported animals between tanks and quarantine systems as required.
- Assisted with design and preparation of an octopus exhibit including species selection and enrichment planning.
- Maintained medical records for all display and off-display animals.
- Conducted necropsies and collaborated with veterinarians on disease diagnosis and treatment.
- Administered medications and oversaw care of quarantined animals.
- Performed routine water quality testing and monitoring.
Certifications & Training
Electrofishing Principles and Safety Certification – April 2023
Smooth-Root (Instructor: Patrick Cooney)
Conservation Medicine for Vulnerable Turtles and Amphibians
Washington State University – RACE Approved Continuing Education
PADI Whale Shark Distinctive Specialty Certification
Georgia Aquarium – Journey with Gentle Giants Program
PADI Open Water Diver Certification
Atlantis Aquatics – July 2014
Professional Memberships
- American Fisheries Society
- American Association of Fish Veterinarians
- Spokane Coeur d’Alene Reef Society
- Inland Northwest Wildlife Council
Technical Skills
Field & Research Skills
- Wildlife handling and restraint
- Fish and shark tagging techniques
- Specimen and biological sample handling
- Fisheries field equipment use
- Water quality testing
Laboratory Skills
- Cytology and histopathology preparation
- Parasite identification
- Urinalysis and fecal flotation
- Sterile sample handling
- Laboratory record keeping
Veterinary & Animal Care Skills
- Venipuncture and injections
- Surgical preparation and anesthesia assistance
- Radiograph assistance
- Wildlife rehabilitation support
Additional Interests
- Freshwater and marine aquarium husbandry
- Recreational fishing and aquatic ecology
- Taxonomy and species identification
- Successfully raised dwarf cuttlefish from eggs
- Outdoor recreation including cycling and fishing