Karen Rabideaux, regional specialist

Karen’s passion for animals started at a very young age thanks to her dad's love of animals. She started with volunteering at animal shelters and veterinary clinics. Her passion turned into a Bachelor of Science degree in Animal Science/ Pre-Veterinarian from the University of Wisconsin-River Falls. Karen intended to go to veterinary school but lucked into a job at the Milwaukee County Zoo working with all the animals in the zoo’s care as a roving zookeeper. Karen’s personal life brought her to Chippewa Falls/Eau Claire WI where she has raised her two daughters. Karen continued to work in animal welfare and most recently with the Eau Claire Community Humane Association. Karen spent 12 years at the humane association as their operations director. She now has over 25 years in animal welfare specializing in enrichment, exotics, daily animal care, and medical care.

Karen decided to apply for a Best Friends job opening with encouragement from her friends and family. She is proud to be part of this team who are happy, knowledgeable, and willing to help others do better for those who cannot speak. Karen is excited to share her knowledge and passion in her Wisconsin-nice way with anyone willing to listen.

Karen shares her home with her partner, Steve. They enjoy the outdoors and camp regularly during the summer with family and friends. Currently, they do not have any pets due to the tragic loss of their dog, Birdie. They enjoy fostering for the local humane association and friends in need of a pet sitter until Karen’s travels result in a few adoptions.