After a decade of working his way through the ranks, Ty Vernon is taking the reins of Amarillo's Animal Management & Welfare Department.
The City of Amarillo announced Vernon has been named the department's new director, making his leadership role permanent after serving as assistant director and, most recently, interim director.
Vernon succeeds Victoria Medley, who retired in March 2026.
The appointment puts a familiar face in charge of a department responsible for animal care, shelter operations, enforcement and public safety across the city.
Vernon brings 10 years of experience with Amarillo Animal Management & Welfare (AMW), having served in several positions during his career. His background includes animal cruelty investigations, animal welfare operations, public safety, administration and departmental leadership.
City officials say that experience will help provide stability as the department moves forward.
"Ty brings a strong understanding of the department, its employees and the important role Animal Management & Welfare plays in our community," said Acting City Manager and Chief Operating Officer Andrew Freeman.
"His experience across multiple areas of the department, combined with his commitment to public service, provides valuable continuity as AMW moves forward. We are confident in his ability to lead the department and continue strengthening the services it provides to Amarillo residents."
Familiar Leadership for an Important City Department
As director, Vernon will oversee daily operations, animal welfare services, animal control enforcement and programs designed to encourage responsible pet ownership.
The job also involves balancing the needs of animals with public safety concerns, a responsibility that touches everything from sheltering stray pets to investigating reports of animal cruelty.
For Vernon, the promotion represents an opportunity to continue serving the community where he has spent much of his professional career.
"Having spent the past 10 years serving this community through Animal Management & Welfare, I am grateful for the opportunity to continue that work in this new role," Vernon said.
"I have seen firsthand the dedication of our employees and the challenges and opportunities that come with serving both people and animals. I look forward to working alongside our team, community partners and residents to build on the department's progress and continue improving the services we provide."
Amarillo Animal Management & Welfare plays a central role in handling animal-related concerns throughout the city, including sheltering, animal control and enforcement of local animal regulations.
