Subject: Do zoologist get to work personally with the animals?

I am a junior in high school.  I am trying to decide where the best 
college is for the field of zoology.  I am also trying to find out what 
exactly zoologists get to do with the animals.  I have seen those shows 
were people take care of wild animals at zoos, or private ranches and 
parks.  I think that is my goal job.  But,  I am not very sure if that is 
what a zoologist does.  I want to be interactive with the animals and 
watch their behavior.  
Also, if you could please help me in the best place to pursue this place i 
would be very grateful.  I know there are family owned places somewhere in 
California were you have assignment of which animal and in the same time 
you take classes.  If you could also point in the correct classes I would 
need to take to get a degree in animals I would  be grateful.
Thank You so much for your help and concern,
Jaime

Re: Do zoologist get to work personally with the animals?