Dell Kay Bertino, DVM Shiloh Veterinary Hospital
“My earliest memories are of animals,” says Dr. Bertino. She grew up on a ranch until grade school, then became active in 4-H. Her passion for animals eventually led her to fulfill her dream of becoming a veterinarian in 1992. She is now owner/partner at Shiloh Veterinary Hospital, where she has worked since 1998.
“I work with a great crew and two other doctors, Danae Blain, DVM, and Marci Cook, DVM. I am also the veterinarian for Zoo Montana, which allows me to help wildlife and species survival.”
In your opinion, what are the most meaningful ways those in the community can "give back" to the planet?
“Do unto others as you would have done to you. We need to smile, be courteous, help each other instead of being indifferent. We get so busy and forget that we are all in this together. Adopt an unwanted pet to enhance your life.”
How do you give back? Daily, monthly, throughout your life? What are you passionate about?
“I am passionate about providing care for pets by fostering the human animal bond. I am helping them have healthy, happy lives. Pets provide so many benefits to enhance people’s lives. I hope by me helping keep them healthy, that people have fuller, active lives.”
Jeff Ewelt, Executive Director ZooMontana
“I have always been a nature nut,” admits Jeff Ewelt. “My parents were great at getting me outdoors and ensuring I respected nature. My love of birds of prey came during a work shadowing program I did in the sixth grade. At the end of the day, the gentleman I was shadowing at a local science center in Cleveland Ohio, let me hold a tiny Saw-Whet Owl. When that owl touched my hand, I knew educating audiences about these incredible animals had to be in my future.”
In your opinion, what are the most meaningful ways those in the community can "give back" to the planet?
“Pay attention. Make changes because it’s the right thing to do. Change to LED bulbs, turn off your water while brushing your teeth, recycle your cans. These are simple things that can make a difference regardless of one’s political beliefs. They are simply the right things to do.”
How do you give back? Daily, monthly, throughout your life? What are you passionate about?
“For me personally, I of course love to give back to animal causes. I am so fortunate to be able to volunteer my time to help with raptor rescue, helping injured birds of prey find the help they need in hopes of re-release back into the wild. We must all work together to ensure species are surviving in conjunction with us. We all share this planet, it’s only fair that we as humans, the most intelligent of the species, work to take care of our one and only home. Why would we not?”
Megan O'Reilly, Wildlife Biologist Montana Fish Wildlife and Parks
"I am responsible for studying and managing a variety of wildlife species in south central Montana, as well as helping to minimize human-wildlife conflict," explains Megan O'Reilly. She grew up in an urban area, but developed a passion for nature in the tomato plant jungle of her Dad's 8x8 backyard garden.
"I was always the kid bringing home injured baby animals and trying to find them help. I declared General Biology as my major when I started at Montana State University. Within two weeks of attending my first Principles of Fish and Wildlife Management class, I happily switched my major to Fish and Wildlife Management and never looked back."
In your opinion, what are the most meaningful ways those in the community can "give back" to the planet?
"In my opinion, willingness to learn about and appreciate wildlife, particularly misunderstood and sometimes feared species such as bats, and sharing that knowledge and appreciation far and wide is one of the most meaningful ways to give back to the planet."
How do you give back? Daily, monthly, throughout your life? What are you passionate about?
"I give back every day through my interactions with wildlife and their habitats, other natural resource agencies, nonprofit organizations and the general public. I am passionate about wildlife education and outreach including, but not limited to, summer bat walks, working with scout troops, summer camps, Teach the Teacher events and Becoming an Outdoors Woman."
