Mission
As a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, our main goals are to rescue animals in need, to educate about wildlife, and to discourage people from keeping exotic animals as pets. The majority of our animals are rescued from the exotic pet trade and have lived dramatic circumstances. At Animal Tracks we provide a sanctuary for these animals, and through proper care from our staff and community we are giving them a new lease on life. We rely on your support to give these animals a second chance!
Vision
We are committed to promoting conservation education by teaching our community about the dangerous impact humans have on wildlife. Through immersive education, we are spreading awareness of these dangers.
By fostering a deeper understanding of the delicate balance between humans and wildlife, we aim to inspire positive change and empower individuals to become stewards of the natural world.
Our Goals
PROMOTE
EMPATHY & AWARENESS
DISCOURAGE
WILDLIFE TRADE
EDUCATE
CREATE COMMUNITY
Our Programs
Rescue & Refuge
We offer a safe haven for exotic animals who have been abandoned, abused, or displaced, ensuring they receive the medical care, nourishment, and love they deserve. Our dedicated team works tirelessly to take care of these animals, giving them a second chance at life.
We never buy or breed animals, we are a rescue and educational center.
Volunteer Engagement
Volunteers are the heart of our mission. We train and mentor dedicated individuals to support animal care, education, tours, and advocacy—creating future stewards for wildlife.
Through our work and community outreach, we strive to inspire positive change and ensure that wildlife conservation becomes a global priority.
Education
Education is at the heart of our mission at Animal Tracks. We believe that promoting a deeper understanding and appreciation for wildlife is crucial for conservation efforts. Through our interactive programs and experiences, we educate visitors about the importance of biodiversity, the challenges faced by various species, and the vital role each individual can play in protecting our planet's creatures.
Workshops & Events
We host on-site workshops & events led by prominent educators and conservationists for elementary, middle and high school, homeschools, or educational groups.
Follow us on social media or subscribe to our newsletter to know all about our upcoming workshops and events!
Our Team
Stacy Gunderson
Executive Director
Nancy Bianconi
President
Shawn Orm
Vice President
Alyson Wright
Treasurer
Meena Amani
Board Member
Annalisa G.Dunker
Media & Communications
Carlos Gamez
Keeper
Zina Block
Board Member
Aury Reitz
Ranch Manager
Josh Betters
Board Member
Julie Medrano
Enrichment Manager
Natalia Glady
Board Member
Marilynn Hirigoyen
Keeper
Our Dedicated Volunteers
Abby Schribe, Aeslin Cameron, Amber Maalouf, Amber Rameriz, Anahi Ruvalcaba, Anders Dunker, Bill Santoro, Bob Friend, Brunnella Grimaldi, Candace Smith, Charles Sitarski, Chelsea Caston, Cheryl Lowrance, Christine Hillberg, Christy Grable, Claire Tang, Colleen Cleary, Colleen Smith, Danielle Biel, Emy McDonald, Gryffin Lowrance, Haley Van Horn, Heather Tralla, Heidi Carney, Jenna Helfant, Jessy Luckett, Jill Lebya, John Hirigoyen, John and Susan Fischel, Juliana Sloan, J'Quinn McKenna, Kya Haley, Lisa Radl, Lisa Ann Pedriana, Lucy Luciani, Luke Wall, Matt Carey, Matt Gendall, Max Watkins, Michele Kline, Mike Ergas, Missy Romic, Molly Cahill, Morgan Miladinovic, Noelle Heart, Rick Waugaman, Robin Cook, Sierra Kacani, Sunmin Park, Terry Deasy, Tim Irons, Travis Jonsen, Willa Greenstone, Zuri Kayton.
Advisory Board
Dr. Kristopher Irizarry
Dr. Irizarry has held a bioinformatics and genomics faculty position within the College of Veterinary Medicine at Western University of Health Sciences since 2006. His area of expertise is animal genomics and behavioral/cognitive phenotypes. For over a decade, Dr. Irizarry has served as an expert genetics witness in federal court to help preserve and protect the human animal bond. Dr. Irizarry believes that the human-animal bond should be protected to preserve human animal bonds.
Dr. Douglas W. Bryant
During graduate school and with two of his professors, Doug founded the biotechnology company, Intuitive Genomics. Following NewLeaf Symbiotics’ acquisition of Intuitive Genomics, joined NewLeaf Symbiotics in 2013 to develop and manage NewLeaf’s genomics, bioinformatics, data science, and Prescriptive Biologics Knowledgebase platforms. Doug has had a lifelong passion for animals, and particularly for working dogs. Doug has trained working dogs for over 15 years, has titled multiple dogs to IGP 3 level, and has trained hundreds of dogs for others in sport, personal protection, and obedience.
Dr. Matthew E. Bahamonde
For over 20 years Dr. Bahamonde has been a college educator and administrator. After earning a PhD in biological chemistry from UCLA, he became a faculty member at Farmingdale State College, in New York. There he was integral in the transformation of the college from a two-year agricultural school to a technology-focused four-year college. Currently Dr. Bahamonde is Associate Program Director for the Touro University of California, Los Angeles Physician Assistant Program.
Jason
Dragon
Jason Dragon has inspired integral developments in entertainment, technology and philanthropy for more than three decades, creating and designing fundamental movements while establishing and evolving brands.
Dragon is a respected strategic consultant, partnerships advisor, talent manager and creative producer, helping build innovative companies and supporting impactful programs.
His leadership experience in business, entertainment, philanthropy, technology and psychology informs his unique vision.