Who We Are

Jakie Hernandez, operations manager

Jakie Hernandez - Best Friends Animal SocietyMy name is Jakie (like Jackie, without the “c”). Some of you may remember that I worked at the Sanctuary as the Outcomes Manager last year. I’m so excited to be a part of the National Shelter Embed Programs Team as a Manager of Operations – Embed Project at Prattville/ Autauga Humane Society in Prattville, Alabama.

A bit about me: I was born and raised in a small South Texas border town of Laredo, TX. I was quite literally born into rescue. My father rescued Chihuahua’s and ran an at home, foster-based rescue throughout my childhood (who knew having a dozen rescue dogs running around your house wasn’t normal?). I have worked in animal shelters throughout Texas and some of Canada in my career.

A little over 10 years ago, while working at one of the highest-kill shelters in South Texas (save rate of 8% at the time) I learned about Best Friends, and their mission. From that moment, I knew I wanted to be part of the team that would make this nation no-kill.

I love shelter medicine and have a true passion for keeping the community I grew up in engaged and educated by sharing resources/ information with them in Spanish and keeping people and pets together.

I enjoy spending time with my family and am always up for a new adventure.

Un fuerte abrazo a todos!