Sandoval promoted to Oklahoma City Animal Welfare superintendent

Published on January 20, 2026

Oklahoma City Animal Welfare Supervisor Johny Sandoval has been promoted to Animal Welfare Superintendent, effective immediately.

Sandoval has over 10 years of experience in animal welfare. He began his career as an animal care technician with the Ark-Valley Human Society in Buena Vista, Colorado, where he advanced to adoption lead, assistant manager and eventually operations manager. Sandoval relocated to Oklahoma City in 2023 and has been the Animal Welfare supervisor since January 2024.

As the operations manager at Ark-Valley Humane Society, Sandoval helped achieve a yearly live release rate between 97–99%, oversaw major facility renovations and launched community-based programs to improve pet retention and expand public access to services. He also co-created the PAWS team culture framework, which emphasizes professionalism, accountability, wellness and sustainability in daily operations.

“Johny brings proven operational leadership, a deep commitment to animal welfare, and a clear focus on accountability and results,” Development Services Director Brock Rowe said. “We are excited for him to take the reins and propel this division forward in a positive and impactful way.”

The City conducted a nationwide search for the position.

“I care deeply about OKC Animal Welfare’s mission and the progress we worked hard to achieve as a team,” Sandoval said. “I’m eager to lead the next chapter through collaboration, operational consistency and a continued commitment to data-driven, humane, and community-centered animal services.”

Sandoval succeeds Ronnie Schlabs. Animal Welfare is a division of the Development Services Department.

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