Joint Animal Services 

I moved to Washington in March 2023 to take on the role of Field Supervisor at Joint Animal Services, and since then, the shelter has felt like home. I bring over 10 years of experience in animal welfare, including both volunteer work and professional roles, primarily in my home state of Texas. My career began in 2015 as an Adoption Counselor with the Humane Society of North Texas, where I later transitioned to the Humane Investigations unit. In 2017, I moved to Austin to help launch the Neighborhood Level Program and worked as an Animal Protection and Field Training Officer, focusing on animal neglect. In 2021, I became a subpermittee wildlife rehabilitator with North Texas Wildlife Rescue, where I cared for orphaned animals until they were ready to return to the wild. While animal advocacy remains central to my work, I’ve developed a real passion for mentoring new Animal Control Officers, encouraging continued education, and passing along the knowledge that will help ensure the future of our work. I’m excited for the opportunity to join the WACA board, where I can contribute my experience to supporting Washington’s animal welfare professionals and advocating for the well-being of both animals and the communities they serve.

Clark County Animal Control

In 2010 I started my career as a livestock nutrition specialist for a local feed mill, specializing in livestock care and farm management systems. In 2014, while still working in the livestock industry I joined North Country EMS as a volunteer EMT serving Northern Clark County, SE Cowlitz, and Skamania County. During my time serving as an EMT, I received extensive technical rescue training while working with the Mt. Saint Helens Volcano Rescue Team and Life Flight.

In 2019 I received my certification as a Wildlife Control Operator for WDFW, specializing in public education, nuisance wildlife abatement, and predator control. In July of 2022 I was hired as an ACO for Clark County Animal Protection and Control, I successfully completed ACO Officer I and ACO Officer II training through NACA. In March 2023 I graduated from the WACA ACO Academy in Burien WA. I was promoted to lead officer in August of 2023.

While working as an ACO, I have earned the nickname “NETS” for my ability to safely capture animals in difficult situations.

I have a strong passion for protecting animals and cultivating relationships within the community.

Lake Stevens Police Department

Margaret Cooper has spent many years involved in animal welfare. She volunteered at the Woodland Park Zoo with the ponies when she was 14 and also helped at her local veterinary clinic. She has worked as a receptionist/assistant at both a low-cost veterinary clinic and a 24-hour emergency clinic. She spent several years working as a licensed claim producer/adjuster for Healthy Paws Pet Insurance prior to beginning her career in Law Enforcement. She currently works as a Community Service Officer for Lake Stevens Police Department where she handles all things parking and barking! Margaret previously served on the WACA board as secretary, and is excited to rejoin the WACA board this year! She currently lives in Monroe with her 13-year-old daughter and her 11-year-old Malamute/Mastiff mix named Falkor.