Central Florida’s oldest and largest animal welfare agency has a new leader dedicated to “helping both ends of the leash.”
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Dr. Josh Fisher, who has more than 20 years of experience in veterinary medicine, animal welfare and executive leadership, began his role as the CEO of Pet Alliance earlier this week. Fisher most recently served as the animal services director for the City of Charlotte, North Carolina and Mecklenburg County.
In his career, Fisher has led teams in private practice, corporate veterinary medicine and at the North Carolina State College of Veterinary Medicine. His expertise includes public health and safety, strategic planning, intake and placement strategies, organizational leadership and programs that improve outcomes for shelter pets while helping families stay together.
“I am honored to join Pet Alliance and become part of an organization that has earned the trust and support of the Central Florida community for nearly 90 years,” Fisher said in a news release. “I’ve always believed in helping both ends of the leash by supporting not only animals, but also the people who love and care for them. I look forward to working alongside our dedicated staff, volunteers, donors and community partners to build on Pet Alliance’s incredible legacy, expand our impact and create even more lifesaving opportunities for the dogs and cats who depend on us.”
Fisher aims to carry out Pet Alliance’s mission by “creating compassionate, sustainable solutions that benefit animals, the people who love them and the dedicated teams who care for them,” according to a news release.
“Josh is a respected and compassionate leader whose vision, experience and deep commitment to animal welfare make him exceptionally well suited to lead Pet Alliance into its next chapter,” said Taylor Strickland, chair of the Pet Alliance Board of Directors, in a news release. “His passion for innovation, collaboration and community will strengthen our lifesaving mission and position Pet Alliance to serve the pets and people of Central Florida for generations to come.”
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Fisher succeeds Stephen Bardy, who spent a decade leading Pet Alliance.
“Pet Alliance’s success today would not have been possible without Steve’s leadership, commitment and years of service,” Strickland said.
Pet Alliance opens new $15 million shelter with 25,000 square feet of space
Fisher remains involved in advancing animal welfare nationwide as a board member of the National Animal Care & Control Association and a member of the managing executive committee for the Human Animal Support Services project. He also serves as an assistant professor with the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine and holds several professional certifications, including Certified Animal Welfare Administrator, Lean Six Sigma Black Belt and Certified Change Management Professional.
Earlier this year, Pet Alliance cut the ribbon on a new 25,000-square-foot shelter, opening its $15 million Kylie J. Capri Campus and Edward H. Hensley Adoption Center to accommodate up to 275 animals. The nonprofit supports more than 4,000 animals per year and hopes the new facility will expand its reach to 7,000 dogs and cats annually.
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