San Diego County has named Dr. Brieana Sarvis as director of Animal Services and Kendra King as deputy director, officials announced this week. The appointments come after months of scrutiny over department operations following reporting by KPBS.

Sarvis joined the county as chief veterinarian in 2025 and has been serving as acting director since February, according to East County Magazine. King comes from the Humane Society of Ventura County, where she focused on field operations and humane investigations.

The leadership changes follow the departures of prior department leaders amid criticism over euthanasia rates and record-keeping. County officials say the department remains focused on rescues, cruelty investigations, enforcement of animal welfare laws, support for pet owners and public education.

For East County residents, the department oversees services tied to animal control, shelter access and welfare enforcement across communities including Santee and nearby unincorporated areas. The new leadership team now faces the task of rebuilding trust while improving day-to-day operations.