While this week is nationally recognized as Animal Control Appreciation Week, the Humane Society of Ventura County proudly celebrates our Humane Officers, a team of specially trained professionals who go beyond standard animal control duties. Every day, these brave individuals step into challenging and often heart-wrenching situations. They do this not for recognition or praise, but to protect those who cannot speak for themselves. During Humane Officer Appreciation Week, we take a moment to shine a light on these compassionate warriors who work tirelessly to ensure the safety and well-being of animals in our communities.

Humane Officers are more than just animal lovers. They are investigators, educators, mediators, and first responders. They handle cases of abuse, neglect, hoarding, and abandonment. They step into situations where others may turn away, rescuing animals from cruelty and giving them a second chance at life. Their work is emotionally demanding, physically exhausting, and often goes unnoticed. But make no mistake, their impact is profound. These Officers are trained professionals who enforce animal welfare laws, collaborate with law enforcement, and often play a crucial role in prosecuting cruelty cases. At the same time, they work with empathy and compassion by educating pet owners, helping families in crisis keep their animals, and connecting people with the resources they need to care for their pets. Behind every rescued dog, cat, horse, or livestock is a humane officer who took action, made that call, followed the lead, and refused to let suffering go unseen.

Unlike traditional Animal Control Officers, who are government-funded and often focus on stray animal pickup, licensing, nuisance complaints, and shelter services, Humane Officers are sworn in by the state and authorized to investigate and enforce animal cruelty and neglect laws. They respond to reports of abuse, rescue animals from dangerous situations, and work with law enforcement to bring justice for animals in need. Our Humane Officers work closely with Animal Control Officers regarding larger rescues involving law enforcement and emergency evacuations.

This week, we say thank you to our beloved Humane Investigations Team: Kendra King, Kaelyn Viacava, and Lacie Lopez. Thank you for standing up for animals and for your courage in difficult and sometimes dangerous circumstances. Thank you for the compassion that guides everything you do. Whether you’re working in the field, behind the scenes, or advocating for change, your efforts do not go unnoticed. You are heroes in every sense of the word. If an animal rescue story has ever inspired you, consider this: a Humane Officer likely made that rescue possible. So, let’s show our appreciation by expressing our gratitude, donating, or simply spreading the word about the incredible work these Officers do daily. Behind every paw print saved is a Humane Officer who cared enough to make a difference.

Meet our Humane Investigations team:

Humane Investigations Director - Officer Kendra King

Kendra King joined the Humane Society staff in August of 2014 as an Adoption Counselor. As a lifelong animal lover, King knew that a career in animal welfare was for her. After studying anthropology and criminal justice at Ventura College, she began extensive training to become a Humane Officer, completing the Animal Law Enforcement Academy at the San Diego Humane Society in October 2015. In July 2016, King was officially sworn in by Judge Henry Walsh at the Ventura County Courthouse.

Since King was officially sworn in, she has completed numerous courses on California animal laws, investigation techniques, disaster response, and animal abuse and neglect. She completed the Advanced Animal Law Enforcement Academy at Marin Humane in 2018.

In March of 2020, King used her experience in disaster preparedness to form the Shelter’s first Emergency Response Team (E.R.T.), comprised of a group of dedicated volunteers that assist with animal intake and care at the shelter. Now known as the HSVC ERT, this dedicated group of individuals provides support at the shelter during times of emergency. King also grew the shelter's staff-led animal rescue team, known as VC HART (Ventura County Humane Animal Rescue Team). This valuable team ventures out into the community during times of disaster, often braving dangerous conditions to assist with animal evacuation and transport. 

King was recognized for her accomplishments and excellent leadership skills as a Humane Officer and promoted to Senior Humane Officer in June of 2021. In February of 2023, King was promoted to Humane Investigations Director. In this position, King supervises our investigations department, acts as the liaison between HSVC and local and county agencies, and spearheads our disaster relief efforts. She is also a soon-to-be graduated member of the Ventura County Leadership Academy (VCLA). King has been serving on the VC VOAD Executive Committee since November 2023 and served as a board member for Reins of H.O.P.E. for four and a half years.

King is a Ventura County native who grew up horseback riding and surfing. She is proud to serve as a voice for creatures that would otherwise have none and help the people within her community.

Humane Officer - Kaelyn Viacava

Kaelyn joined the team in February 2024 as a Humane Officer Trainee, marking the beginning of a journey she has long dreamed of. Since childhood, Kaelyn has been passionate about helping animals in need, driven by a strong sense of compassion and a desire to make a difference in the lives of those who cannot advocate for themselves. She dedicated herself to intensive training to pursue her dream, successfully completing the CalAnimals Officer Academy in March 2024. This comprehensive program equipped her with the essential skills and knowledge necessary for her new role. With determination and hard work, Kaelyn was officially sworn in as a Humane Officer on November 20th, 2024, ready to take on the responsibilities that come with this vital position.

Humane Officer Trainee - Lacie Lopez

Lacie joined the dedicated Animal Care team in mid-March of 2024, bringing a wealth of passion for animal welfare and training to the organization. In November of 2024, she took on the role of a Humane Officer Trainee, setting the stage for her goal of becoming a key figure in animal advocacy and support. With a deep-seated love for dogs that began when she was just 12 years old, Lacie has accumulated significant experience in dog training over the years. Her early exposure to the field came through her work alongside her aunt, who specialized in training service pets for veterans, an experience that profoundly shaped her understanding of these animals' unique needs and the importance of their role in the lives of those they serve.  

Before she arrived at HSVC and the beautiful Ventura County, Lacie briefly honed her skills at the San Diego Humane Society. This experience allowed her to engage with a diverse array of animals and learn effective strategies for rehabilitation and adoption. At the shelter, Lacie finds a particular sense of fulfillment caring for more fearful and reactive dogs. She possesses a remarkable ability to connect with these animals, understanding their behaviors, and employing specialized training techniques to build their confidence. Lacie is driven by the hope that her knowledge and skills will significantly contribute to finding more animals their forever homes, ensuring that every dog’s journey leads to a loving, supportive environment that they deserve.  

In addition to her work with dogs, Lacie has a strong passion for horses and is enthusiastic about expanding her hands-on experience with equines. She aspires to gain more knowledge in horse care and training, recognizing the joy and companionship that these majestic animals can bring. Lacie believes that developing her skills in this area will not only enhance her capability as a Humane Officer but also enrich her overall understanding of animal behaviors and interactions across different species.