Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter GM Leaving After 12 Years

SANTA CRUZ, CA —Santa Cruz County has announced that Melanie Sobel, who spent nearly 12 years as the general manager of the Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter (SCCAS), will be leaving her position on Friday in order to take over as the director of the Denver Animal Shelter.

The county said it will conduct a national search for Sobel's replacement.

"During her tenure, Sobel reshaped the SCCAS into one of the most respected animal welfare agencies in California," the county said in a statement.

According to the county, Sobel and her staff implement important initiatives like: a free and low-cost spay/neuter program, PLANNED PetHood, low-cost rabies vaccinations, low-cost microchip programs to reunite lost pets with their families and online dog licenses.

Sobel also organized emergency sheltering operations for local animals and pets, including during the CZU Fire.

During Sobel's tenure, the SCCAS increased the level of community giving to support the agency's programs and services, and it established the Santa Cruz Animal Shelter Foundation, according to the county.

Among the animal-focused special events that Sobel created were: Meow Luau, "Catio" Tours, St. Pittie's Day, Halloween Hoedown and the annual Parks & Rex event.

Sobel also initiated an expansion of the Animal Services Santa Cruz building and established the upscale secondhand Benefit Shop on 17th Avenue, which helps subsidize the SCCAS' mission, the county said.

"SCCAS' community outreach efforts are unparalleled including partnering with local social service agencies to provide free veterinary exams and wellness clinics to the most vulnerable animals in the community," the county said in a statement.

The county's statement continued: "(Sobel) is also known through media outreach efforts, including weekly 'Pet of the Week' segments on local radio station KPIG and appearances in local publications."