Jonathan Gary selected to lead San Antonio Animal Care Services

Published on October 30, 2024

Jonathan Gary selected to lead San Antonio Animal Care Services beginning December 30

Gary previously served as Director of the Oklahoma City Animal Welfare Division.

SAN ANTONIO (October 30, 2024) – San Antonio City Manager Erik Walsh has appointed Jonathan Gary, a 25-year veteran of the City of Oklahoma City (OKC), as the next Director of Animal Care Services, effective December 30, 2024. Following a nationwide search with more than 100 applicants, Gary emerged as the selected candidate due to his exceptional experience in all facets of animal welfare.  

“I have total confidence in Mr. Gary’s ability to lead Animal Care Services in its mission to protect both the animals and the residents of our community,” Walsh said. “Gary’s career in animal welfare has truly run the gamut. He has worked in the medical side of animal sheltering, supervised field services, and overseen daily shelter operations. That’s an incredible breadth of experience that will serve San Antonio well.” 

Gary has spent all 25 years of his career in animal welfare working for the Oklahoma City Animal Welfare Division. He has worked for the past eight years as the division’s director, overseeing the health, welfare, and safety of all animals in OKC. As a director, he has earned the respect of the local rescue community by developing strategic plans to increase the placement of pets for life. Recently, the Oklahoma City Animal Welfare Division broke its annual save rate record with more than 15,000 animal lives saved. He has also focused on keeping the community’s residents safe while ensuring the humane treatment of pets.

“We look forward to welcoming Jonathan Gary as the new Director of Animal Care Services,” ACS Advisory Board Chair Rita Braeutigam said. “His 25 years of municipal shelter experience are invaluable. These talents will help us work united on behalf of our pets, our partners, and our community.”

Before his promotion to director, Gary worked as an animal shelter worker, shelter supervisor, vet assistant, field supervisor, and operations manager. Working in the latter role for 10 years, Gary oversaw the cleaning and care of the animals, customer service, volunteer, foster, and transfer programs, in addition to maintenance of the building.  

Walsh selected Gary following a rigorous interview process that included multiple panels comprised of ACS Advisory Board members, community stakeholders, and City Executive staff.  

Interim Animal Care Services Director Mike Shannon will resume his previous duties as Development Services Director in January of 2025.