Beyond Care: Lessons in Trust and Training

Cameron Guevara
UC Davis undergraduate, 4th year
Major: Animal Biology

Randy and me.

When I first joined the Green Care Lab, I had no idea just how much of an impact this internship would have on me. Coming from a background primarily centered around small animals and exotics, I was excited--but admittedly a bit nervous--to gain my first hands-on experience with livestock animals. I wondered how different their care would be, how they would respond to me, and whether I would be able to read their behaviors as intuitively as I could with the animals I was more familiar with. Now, after spending time caring for all the animals in the lab, I can confidently say that this experience has been transformative, deepening both my understanding of animal care and my passion for animal welfare.

From the very beginning, I was introduced to the daily routines that ensure the well-being of our animals. Whether it was feeding, grooming, or enrichment, every task played a crucial role in maintaining their health and happiness. Over time, I became more comfortable with the nuances of livestock husbandry, learning the specific needs of each species, how to handle them safely, and the importance of maintaining a clean and enriching environment. It also quickly became clear to me what the animals enjoy, such as where they like to be scratched and what their favorite things to play with are!

Undoubtedly, one of the most rewarding aspects of this internship has been developing relationships with the animals. Everyone has a unique personality, and it has been incredible to witness and appreciate their individual quirks. Mary and Memphis, the donkeys, have an endearing curiosity and gentle nature. Olivia and Randy, the ponies, display a mixture of playfulness and independence that keeps every interaction engaging. The mini pigs – Romeo, Jellybean, and Care Bear – are full of energy and intelligence, always eager to learn, especially when food is involved. Cal and Lily, the dwarf goats, never fail to brighten my day with their awkward but affectionate behavior. My interactions with all of them has also given me a new perspective on reading and interpreting animal behavior. Learning to recognize the animals’ body language, vocalizations, and behavioral cues has been invaluable. Understanding these signals and their personalities allows us to adjust our approach to better meet their individual needs and ensure their comfort.

Mary and me.

One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is the power of positive reinforcement in animal care. Integrating this approach into our daily routines has not only made tasks like brushing and hoof cleaning easier, but it has also strengthened the trust between us and the animals. Offering treats during these activities transforms what could be stressful experiences into moments of cooperation and understanding. This method has reinforced my belief that patient, compassionate handling is essential in animal care and veterinary medicine.

Another valuable lesson I’ve learned is the impact that routine and consistency have on animal well-being. Livestock animals, much like small animals and exotics, thrive on predictable schedules and familiar interactions. Through these past few months, I’ve seen how consistency helps build trust and reduces stress for the animals. For example, the mini pigs have become comfortable with hoof trims because they know to expect treats and gentle handling each time. Similarly, the mini equines respond better to hoof cleaning when it’s incorporated as a regular part of their care (with treats, of course) rather than an occasional event. This experience has reinforced the importance of establishing reliable routines in animal husbandry, not only for their physical health, but also for their emotional well-being. I will carry this lesson with me, recognizing that beyond medical treatments, creating a sense of security through consistent and positive interactions plays a crucial role in an animal’s quality of life.

Building this trust has been especially rewarding because it has allowed me to see the animals grow more comfortable and confident in their interactions with us. At first, some were hesitant or cautious (particularly Olivia and Cal for me), but with time, patience, and positive reinforcement, I watched as they became more willing to engage. Whether it was allowing us to do longer grooming sessions or voluntarily participating in hoof-related activities, these small moments of progress highlight the deep impact that consistency and kindness have in animal care. Ultimately, these results have strengthened my commitment to fear-free handling and using low-stress, welfare-focused techniques in my future veterinary career.

Looking ahead, I’m eager to continue nurturing the relationships I’ve built with each of the animals. The trust that has developed between us is something I truly cherish, and I am grateful for the opportunity to be a part of their care. As I prepare my application for veterinary school, I reflect on how this internship has shaped my aspirations. Beyond gaining hands-on livestock experience, I have developed a deeper appreciation for the role of behavioral science in animal care. The relationships that I have fostered with these animals is a reminder that welfare and medicine go hand in hand, reinforcing my long-term goal of making a meaningful difference in animal welfare, ethics, and One Health. Likewise, the collaboration and teamwork I’ve experienced working alongside my fellow interns and Claire has made the overall experience unforgettable!

Cal enjoying scratches.