The Santa Ynez Valley Humane Society/DAWG (SYVHS/DAWG) is proud to announce the appointment of Dr. Shana Schank, Doctor of Veterinary Medicine, as its new Executive Director. Dr. Schank brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to animal welfare to her new role.

The Santa Ynez Valley Humane Society/DAWG is dedicated to serving the community by providing and promoting humane, compassionate, and conscientious care of companion animals. The organization's mission also includes preventing the overpopulation of animals and furthering the prevention of cruelty to animals, in accordance with the laws of the State of California.

"I am thrilled to join the Santa Ynez Valley Humane Society/DAWG and continue its important work in animal welfare," said Dr. Schank. "I look forward to working closely with our dedicated staff, volunteers, and community partners to further the organization's mission and vision."

The vision of the Santa Ynez Valley Humane Society is to be the premier companion animal resource in the Santa Ynez Valley. This vision includes providing people with the information and resources they need to raise happy, healthy, safe, and socialized companion animals. The organization also aims to provide the community with information and resources to successfully control the population of and improve the lives of feral and domestic animals, while offering companion animals the chance for a brighter future.

"We are excited to welcome Dr. Schank to the Santa Ynez Valley Humane Society," said Carla Mead, Chair of the Board. "Her passion for animal welfare and her extensive experience make her the ideal candidate to lead our organization into the future."

Dr. Schank's appointment comes at an exciting time for the Santa Ynez Valley Humane Society as it continues to expand its programs and services to better serve the community. Under Dr. Shank's leadership, the organization looks forward to making an even greater impact in the lives of animals and the people who love them.

The Santa Ynez Valley Humane Society/DAWG is supported by a dedicated Board of Directors, including Carla Mead as Chair, Charlene Hiatt as Chief Financial Officer, Ashley Slattery-Hille as Secretary, and board members Carol Sherline, Lisa Bennett-Lopez, and Kim Andrade.