Step 1) Place AI generated graphic on work area, resize to the size you desire. 

Step 2) Now outline zebra with a 0.0 offset, make 2 copies of this by copy and pasting. Then create an over to the appropriate size to surround the zebra. Then place one of the outlines of the zebra inside the oval and select subtract at overlap. Then set the oval to engrave. This will remove the shape of the zebra within the oval so it isn't engraved. 

Step 3) Now place everything on top of each other, select the second outline of the zebra to score, then create one more outline of the entire graphic so it can be set to cut. that way when the engraving is finished it will cut the oval out. Before placing the acrylic in the laser machine paint it white, that way it will be pre-painted when finished.