Sonoma County Names New Animal Services Director

PHOTO: Symba is a spayed female, 13-year old, brown tabby, domestic short hair cat. And available for adoption for $25 at the SCAS. More info here.

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Sonoma County Animal Services has a new director, county officials announced today.

John Skeel, 50, was selected after a national search and began work today, according to Rita Scardaci, director of the county’s Department of Health Services, which includes Animal Services. Skeel most recently worked at Asian Pacific Community Counseling, a nonprofit in Sacramento, as a consultant.

He previously was district manager for the Tahoe Resource Conservation District, general manager for the El Dorado Hills Community Services District, and community services division manager for the city of San Ramon.

Skeel also worked as the executive director for the Evergreen Parks and Recreation District in Colorado. “John’s proven record in public service and in building strong partnerships and taking a community-wide approach were key in our decision to offer him this leadership position,” Scardaci said. T

he Animal Services department has had three directors over the past few years. Brian Whipple has been the interim director since last September. Whipple, with 20 years of animal care experience, will now be operations manager and oversee day-to-day operations of all field, shelter and administration functions.

James Dress, an instructor for 16 years with Canine Companions for Independence, was hired as the Animal Services’ community engagement manager and will lead the volunteer program. Skeel will lead upcoming community meetings to learn about local needs and expectations of his new directorship. Sonoma County Animal Services provides field and licensing services to Windsor, Santa Rosa and unincorporated Sonoma County.

Its shelter takes in nearly 3,000 animals annually, primarily dogs and cats, and reduces overpopulation through spay and neuter services. It also is responsible for rabies control and bite investigations for the county.

--Bay City News