De Ann Zarkowski - Union 399 Studio Trainer
De Ann Zarkowski is a Studio Animal Trainer & Coordinator who has worked on over 40 feature films (Titanic, Gladiator, Hannibal), innumerable television shows (Desperate Housewives, Animal Planet, The X Files), commercials, music videos & photo shoots. Her work with animals, from lions to mice, has taken her around the world and also provided the opportunity to work closely with many talented actors such as Mel Gibson, Robin Williams & Ben Affleck, to name just a few. Energetic, personable and fun, DeAnn instantly becomes the consummate professional once cameras roll, leading to a solid
bond of trust and respect with cast & crew. She knows her game, and is on top of it—sometimes literally, whether riding horses, ostriches or camels, and teaching principal cast members how to do so.
Aside from her vast experience in studio or on location, De Ann is equally appreciated and in demand for the obvious enthusiasm and joy she gets from working with animals in all arenas. DeAnn loves sharing her experiences and provides an entertaining, educational and enjoyable time for everyone. She has the unique talent of making the work fun, and this is reflected in the final production. Because of this she is also in demand by industry artists as a private trainer.
In her personal life, De Ann enjoys staying fit through running and going to the gym, and stays sane by practicing daily meditation and horseback riding. De Ann also enjoys camping, boating, and hiking. Now also a realtor specializing in properties for people with animals, De Ann lives in the mountains north of LA with her 7 rescued dogs, 8 house cats—and occasional lion or tiger. De Ann is a proud member of union 399.
Kathleen Pirelli - Union 399 Studio Trainer
Kathleen Pirelli's animal training and handling experience goes back over ten years and she holds a degree in Exotic Animal Training and Management from Moorpark College. She has additional certifications in a variety of medical disciplines that cover safety, health and care of animals and humans.
She has trained a wide range of animals domestic and exotic such as, large cats, primates, marine mammals, exotic hoof stock, domestic farm animals, birds of prey, marsupials, rodents, reptiles, and even insects!
She has been extensively involved in the training, handling and shipment of animals for the film and television industry throughout the world for the last decade. Her film efforts include “Gladiator,” “The Patriot,” “Scorpion King,” “Hannibal,” “K-Pax”, and many more.
Kathleen volunteers her time with a variety of rescue organizations. Additional endeavors include training and helping to relocate dogs for organizations such as Southern California’s Keeshond Rescue, Linda Blair’s World Heart Foundation, and hosting many animal fund raising events throughout Southern California. Kathleen has also trained therapy dogs to assist in the rehabilitation of people in need. Kathleen is also a member of the Trainer's Union 399.
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