About Us

Having been an animal lover and rescuer all of my life, as well as a “people” person, I can say I have the perfect job as the Director of West Memphis Animal Services. My career in animal welfare and animal control officially started at what is considered by most as mid-life, 40 years old. After having had a very rewarding career in nursing, I decided it was time for a change and wanted to pursue my true passion: animals, primarily dogs. I became a nurse at age 21 after having completed my training at Baptist Memorial Hospital School of Nursing. Early in my nursing career, I worked a Baptist East on the cardiac/med-surg floor. I was a bedside nurse for several years, as well as nurse manager. I wrapped up my nursing days as an IV/PICC nurse at Methodist North Hospital. After years of volunteering for the Humane Society of Memphis and Shelby County, I was hired as their Community Outreach/Humane Education Coordinator. In said role, I was responsible for community events, low cost vaccination clinics, low cost spay and neuter efforts, and educating the public on responsible pet ownership. The job allowed me the opportunity to go into local schools and work with kids of all ages. I had the pleasure of offering affordable pet care to people who would have otherwise not been able to tend to their pets. We were able to start a pet food pantry supplying much needed food and pet products to those of lesser income. After a very rewarding two years at the HSMSC, I decided to make yet another change…hop over the river to West Memphis! I became the director of West Memphis Animal Services in August 2013. It was a huge honor to be entrusted with an animal service agency, an honor I have taken very seriously. From day one, I have poured all my efforts, energy, and passion into making our municipal shelter the very best it can be. I have the pleasure of managing two full time Animal Control Officers who work very hard and serve our community and its animals 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Our shelter staff is comprised of two kennel technicians, an adoption adviser, and an administrative assistant. Collectively, all of us at WMAS represent over 55 years of professional animal service experience. Our mission is to service the people and animals of West Memphis, Arkansas. Public safety is our number one concern. It is our job to keep the community safe from unhealthy, stray animals, work with other city agencies, such as police and fire departments, assist with the removal of animals as needed from crisis and/or emergent situations, and educate the public regarding animal issues. We have made many positive changes and enhancements to our organization and look forward to many, many more!