EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) — The City of El Paso’s Animal Services Director Terry Kebschull will retire, the City announced last week.
Kebschull has been with the City for more than 30 years. He has guided the Animal Services Department since March of 2022. His last day in office will be Friday, Sept. 12 after which he will utilize accrued vacation time to conclude his employment with the City on Oct. 3.
Kebschull also worked for the El Paso Fire Department before taking over as director of Animal Services.
During his time with Animal Services, Kebschull advanced operations, strengthened cross-departmental partnerships, and supported initiatives to improve the welfare of pets across the community, the City said.
“Serving as director of Animal Services is both rewarding and demanding. The challenges are significant, but so are the opportunities to make a difference,” City Manager Dionne Mack said. “Terry has led with compassion and resilience, helping improve the lives of countless pets and the families who love them. We are grateful for his leadership and wish him the very best in his retirement.”
To maintain continuity, the City has appointed Michael Wachsmann as interim director of Animal Services. Wachsmann currently serves as deputy director, where he oversees daily operations.
Wachsmann brings more than 15 years of experience in animal care and management, with previous leadership roles at the Houston SPCA and other animal welfare organizations, the City said.
His career includes work in animal adoptions, foster care programs, veterinary services, and public education on responsible pet ownership, the City added.
“Michael has proven himself to be a dedicated and skilled leader in animal welfare,” Deputy City Manager Richard Bristol said. “His experience and commitment to both operational excellence and compassionate care make him well positioned to guide the department during this transition.”
The City will conduct a national search for the next permanent director of Animal Services.
Back in May, the City of El Paso said it has hired an independent consultant to conduct a “comprehensive assessment” of its Animal Services Department.
The City selected Shelter Savvy, LLC, to lead the assessment.
The consultant will conduct an “operational review” of current programs and services, identify service gaps, evaluate community impact, and provide recommendations for continued improvement, the City said at the time the consultant was hired.
For more information about Animal Services or to learn how to support animals in need, you can click here.
Read: Read More