GAYLE DAWSON

Starting out my adult life buried in bookstores it wasn't until I found my husband that a love of animals took me along a different career path. I spent several happy years managing the kennels at veterinary hospitals in Blowing Rock NC and St Petersburg, Fl. When my husband's search for his doctorate lead him to Iowa, I discovered a passion for birds, particularly raptors and was blessed to volunteer for and later be employed by Macbride Raptor Project, a wonderful raptor rehabilitation organization where I spent twelve fascinating years learning all I know about environmental education and wildlife rehabilitation. In my current incarnation as a mother of two, recently transplanted here to North Carolina, I am an active volunteer with Wildlife Rehabilitation, Inc. and pleased to be discovering new animals to share with people as a Creature Teacher. There is nothing like volunteering to put you close to animals in need. I can think of no better calling than to share my enthusiasm and concerns for nature and animals with the children of the community.