Pacific Marine Mammal Center
Alissa Deming has extensive work experience in the field of conservation medicine and veterinary care for marine mammals. Alissa currently serves as the Vice President of Conservation Medicine and Science at Pacific Marine Mammal Center, where they have been since April 2021. Prior to this role, they were the Director of Clinical Medicine at the same organization from May 2020 to April 2021. Before joining Pacific Marine Mammal Center, Deming worked as a Veterinarian and Post-Doctoral Fellow at Dauphin Island Sea Lab from April 2018 to May 2020. Alissa also held the position of Veterinarian and Geoffrey Hughes Research Fellow at The Marine Mammal Center from August 2014 to August 2018. Additionally, Deming gained experience as a Veterinarian and Aquatic Animal Veterinary Intern at the National Marine Mammal Foundation from July 2013 to July 2014, and as a Veterinarian and Small Animal Veterinary Intern at VCA Emergency Animal Hospital & Referral Center from July 2012 to July 2013.
Alissa Deming has an extensive education history. Alissa began their academic journey at Florida Atlantic University, where they pursued a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree in Molecular Biology from 2000 to 2004. Following their undergraduate studies, Alissa attended the same university for their Master of Science (MS) degree, focusing on Stress and anti-apoptotic protein expression in green sea turtle fibropapillomatosis from 2006 to 2008.
Continuing their academic pursuits, Alissa then enrolled at the University of Florida, where they obtained a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree specializing in Aquatic Animal Medicine. This endeavor spanned from 2008 to 2012, furthering their expertise in the field of veterinary medicine.
In 2015, Alissa embarked on a new chapter in their educational journey by joining the University of Florida once again, this time pursuing a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree in Comparative, Diagnostic and Population Medicine. Alissa successfully completed their PhD program in 2018, further enhancing their knowledge and skills in their chosen field of study.
Alissa Deming's education history tells a story of continuous dedication to learning and academic excellence, spanning multiple degrees and fields of study.
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Pacific Marine Mammal Center
The Pacific Marine Mammal Center rescues, rehabilitates and releases marine mammals and inspires ocean stewardship through research, education and collaboration. Pacific Marine Mammal Center is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization. Unlike whales and dolphins, seals and sea lions don't have to remain in water in order to survive. The animals beach themselves to be warm and dry when feeling ill. They seek rest on land for a variety of reasons and are not always in need of intervention. Our staff is trained to recognize animals suffering from infections, malnourishment, pneumonia, gill net strangulation, etc. which can harm an animal's chance for survival. When a "patient" is admitted, our staff performs all necessary procedures under the direction and protocols set by the Animal Care Director and our Veterinary Medical Director. During the course of rehabilitation, animals require a variety of treatments such as administration of antibiotics and subcutaneous fluids, tube feeding, force feeding, wound care, etc. Most animals come in dehydrated and the most effective means to provide fluids and nourishment is through tube feeding. The process requires blending of fish, electrolytes, warm water, vitamins, and medication into a fish formula. This formula is fed to the animals by inserting a flexible tube into the stomach using large syringes. As soon as the animals are hydrated and stable, we wean them to eat whole fish. Once an animal has gained an optimal weight and is competing for food, it's ready for release. Prior to release, each animal is tagged with an identification number. The color-coded tags indicate the animal has been rehabilitated and helps identify the specific animal and care center in case the animal needs care in the future. We strive to return every one of our patients back to the wild once their care with us is complete.