Emily Bongo
The Full Story
More About My Experiences
Dive deeper into my extracurriculars and how they are meaningful to my future!
Califon Animal Hospital
Dr. Marybeth Hamorski
421 County Rd 513, Califon, NJ 07830
During the summer of 2024 and 2025 I had the incredible opportunity to join Dr. Marybeth on her visits. We saw parasitic infections, eye ulcers, dental cleanings, vaccination visits, and emergencies. The image to the right shows one of our most memorable visits. This horse, named Thor, got his lip stuck on a nail in the fencing, Dr. Marybeth allowed me to help clean the wound before she stitched him up. It is truly amazing how she was able to stitch and talk me through everything she did. I value her trust and guidance as I take my own steps towards veterinary school. I plan to continue my learning with Dr. Marybeth in the following years.
Morris Animal Inn
120 Sand Spring Rd, Morristown, NJ 07960
I began working on the Pet Enrichment Team (PET) in the summer of 2024. With little knowledge of how lodging facilities worked the Morris Animal Inn made it a very easy adjustment. They value the well being of the pets that lodge their and easing the minds of worried owners. Pet observation is a must at MAI from minor and major behavior changes to elimination check-ins. Playtimes consist of many elements such as toys, off-leash, cuddles, and special seasonal activities. Cardios are calculated and made for the dogs enjoyment whether that be the treadmill or running around the large grass yard. Lastly, swims are our most unique enrichment activity but the most rewarding; dogs who do swims love the pool! All of these activities have allowed me the chance to observe animal behavior in a stressful environment and expand my interactions with dogs and cats of all breeds!
St. Hubert's/CARE Humane Society
St Hubert's - 575 Woodland Ave, Madison, NJ 07940
CARE Humane -1140 Ware Dr, Auburn, AL 36832
At both St. Hubert's and CARE I have been able to socialize shelter dogs and cats and photograph them to increase the chances of their adoption. St. Hubert's offers playtimes with dogs and cats, fosters, and event help. CARE offers the same with an addition of "doggy dates" where I am allowed to take a dog for the day. On my recent doggy dates I have walked Chewacla Park, bought pup cups, brought dogs to my apartment, and bathed dogs for free at Pet Supply. I wish for all of the dogs and cats I have met to find their forever home soon! I can't wait to continue my journey with these remarkable shelters.
The picture on the right is of Sprite, an 8 year-old Pitbull mix available for adoption at CARE!
Valley Crest Stables
53 Valley Crest Rd, Annandale, New Jersey
(908) 625-9495
Penelope Schell and Samantha Leson
I found my way to Valley Crest Stables almost 5 years ago. Since then I have shown at beautiful venues and ridden the best horses. Not only have I learned so much about riding but also about the horse industry. From making grain and setting up supplements to teaching riding and horsemanship lessons to camp kids I have gained so much knowledge from Valley Crest. I met Dr. Marybeth here by volunteering to assist her with dental cleanings. Sam and Penny opened my eyes to a world in which I could picture myself as an equine veterinarian. I continue to ride with Penny in present day and I cherish the years of learning and hands on experience she has given me.