Dr. Joe Richichi was born and raised in Glens Falls, NY. He attended University of Florida and earned a B.S. in Animal Sciences with a minor in Zoology. His studies then took him out to the Caribbean for Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine on the island of St. Kitts where he graduated in 2020. During his time as a veterinary student, Dr. Joe had his wildlife illustrations published for the first time in The Handbook of Horses & Donkeys. Dr. Joe’s artwork helped fund his education and drive his passion for wildlife and education through illustration, with his art appearing on an IMAX movie poster and a project with Animal Planet. After graduation, he joined the Buffalo area to work in private practice. Dr. Joe’s professional interests include reptile and exotic animal medicine, surgery and orthopedics. When not working, he enjoys drawing wildlife, hockey, snowboarding and nature hikes. He has two cats, two axolotls, two snakes, and a tegu.