Veterinarian Overview
Dr. Richards joined the Ness Exotic Wellness Center team in 2016 with an extensive background in caring for exotic animals. Having grown up in rural western Michigan, she moved to Chicago to attend Loyola University of Chicago. After graduating, Dr. Richards began her career as a zookeeper and animal trainer at Brookfield Zoo, where she took care of a wide variety of species ranging from prickly stick insects to polar bears. During her 12 years at the zoo, she loved being involved in the behavior and enrichment programs developing ways to encourage natural behaviors and reduce stress in animals.