When Gabriela Peralta began her DVM degree at Ross Vet in September 2023, she already knew she wanted to explore the world of research. Passionate about conservation, she believes that one of the most powerful ways to protect wildlife and ecosystems is through generating new knowledge and sharing it with the world.
It wasn’t long before she discovered Ross Vet’s One Health approach – a framework that views human, animal, and environmental health as deeply interconnected.
“I quickly became fascinated with the concept of viewing medicine as a collaboration of disciplines, rather than a standalone branch of science,” Gabriela shared. “From there I was absolutely hooked and set out to learn as much as I can about medicine, conservation, and One Health.”
Today, Gabriela is simultaneously pursuing an MSc by Research and a Graduate Certificate in One Health, which allows her to take advantage of every opportunity to turn that passion into impact. “While managing these concurrent programs is challenging,” Gabriela revealed, “I have been truly inspired by the incredible opportunities Ross Vet provides to deepen my education and broaden my understanding of One Health and veterinary medicine.”
Leading with WAVMA
As Acting President of Ross Vet’s student chapter of the World Aquatic Veterinary Medical Association (WAVMA), Gabriela helped organize a marine education trip to Nevis in partnership with C.A.R.E. SKN (Coral Reef Assistance, Restoration, and Education. This organization, based in St. Kitts, aims to preserve coral reefs through restoration, preservation and education. The day began with a lecture about coral reef ecosystems, where students learned about the structure, function, and threats facing reef ecosystems before diving in for a snorkeling session where they identified indicator species and assessed reef health firsthand. For Gabriela, it was a valuable hands-on experience that deepened her understanding of local marine environments and the importance of protecting them.
Research in Sustainable Aquaculture
Gabriela is currently leading a research project on the Caribbean King Crab, which focuses on nutritional strategies to improve larval survival and growth. The broader aim is to support the development of sustainable crab farming methods that could alleviate fishing pressure on wild populations, support local economies, and enhance marine conservation strategies. This research builds upon her previous contributions as a research assistant to Dr. Nicole Herbert, where they investigated parasitic and viral infections in Caribbean Spiny Lobsters.
Clinical Training in Wildlife and Aquatic Medicine
Beyond the classroom, Gabriela has pursued a wide range of clinical experiences that have allowed her to develop strong skills in wildlife and aquatic medicine. At the Wildlife Science Center in Minnesota, she completed a Wildlife Chemical Immobilization course, where she trained in safe handling, darting techniques, anesthetic management, and post-immobilization care—essential tools for working with free-ranging or captive wildlife. She further expanded her expertise at the Caribbean Manatee Conservation Center in Puerto Rico, where she provided hands-on care for Caribbean manatees, sea turtles, and avian patients, assisting with treatments, diagnostics, and rehabilitation efforts.
Building on these foundations, Gabriela is now interning at Dolphin Discovery in St. Kitts, where she supports the daily care and medical management of Atlantic bottlenose dolphins. Her responsibilities include performing routine health assessments and blood draws, skills that are vital to the early detection and treatment of health concerns. These experiences have not only strengthened Gabriela’s clinical skills but deepened her passion for wildlife and aquatic animal medicine and prepared her for a career that blends conservation with veterinary care.
Looking Ahead
With an eye on becoming a wildlife veterinarian, Gabriela hopes to travel the globe, working with exotic and free-ranging animals while contributing to conservation efforts. Her time at Ross Vet has already helped her take meaningful steps toward that dream.
“The unique combination of programs has enriched my knowledge, enhanced my research skills, and strengthened my ability to approach animal and human health from a holistic, interdisciplinary perspective - benefits that are already shaping my growth as a veterinary professional dedicated to advancing both animal and public health," she says.
By integrating clinical training, applied research, and the One Health framework, Gabriela is building the skills necessary to contribute meaningfully to conservation outcomes and to advance both animal and ecosystem health on an international scale.
