Meet the Team: Payton Garcia
All the dogs that come through DAWS have one thing in common; they have all spent time with Payton. Payton Garcia is one of the newest members of the DAWS team the Animal Behaviorist. She officially joined the team at the beginning of December 2022 but was first introduced to DAWS as an emergency foster for one of our canine friends. Payton declares, “DAWS has changed my life in many positive ways. It’s helped me continue growing in my personal life and career as an Animal Behaviorist. The experience of becoming a foster for DAWS was a new one for me that unlocked an opportunity to have a large impact in the community.”
Payton knew she was meant to work with animals at a very young age. She has always been “in tune” with the animals she has come across in her life. She has an English bulldog named Dozer and two rescue cats, a rescued rabbit, eight tarantulas (one is named Squidward), and a snake!
Payton studied Animal Science at UCONN while starting her career in the animal field. She spent two years as a Veterinary Technician before moving into the animal behavior world, where she has spent over six years. Not only does she assist the animals at DAWS, but she also works with many other animals in her community.
As Animal Behaviorist for DAWS, Payton conducts evaluations on all incoming dogs, helps our fosters with anything they need, assist the kennel staff to create a behavioral modification to improve the adoptability of our dogs, and helps to find the home that is the best fit for the animals in our care. Payton’s compassion and love for the animals is astonishing. Shelter Director Katie Mothersele adds, “Peyton truly sets our animals up for success!”
Payton is honored to be a part of the organization. She states, “What I love most about working for DAWS is the community that surrounds it. Working with other like-minded individuals like the DAWS staff members, volunteers and our amazing fosters towards the single goal of helping animals find their forever home is an incredibly fulfilling and rewarding experience.”
Payton is so excited to be a part of the DAWS during such an important time. She is looking forward to the future and is ready to bring her passion to support the organization’s growth.
