Source: Rita Jane Gabbett, MEATINGPLACE, 1/6/16


USDA’s USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service announced the agency has named Bernadette Juarez as the new acting deputy administrator for its Animal Care (AC) program.

Juarez will lead the program’s staff in protecting and ensuring the welfare of millions of animals nationwide that are covered under the Animal Welfare Act (AWA) and the Horse Protection Act (HPA).

She will also oversee the collaborative work done at AC’s Center for Animal Welfare, building critical partnerships domestically and internationally, while seeking to improve regulatory practices and develop training and educational resources.

Juarez replaces Dr. Chester Gipson, who retired on Jan 1, after more than 13 years in the position.  

Prior to this position, Juarez served with APHIS’ Investigative and Enforcement Services, first as deputy director, then as director.  She joined APHIS as a trial attorney in USDA’s Office of the General Counsel from 2002 to 2009.

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