The Brownsville Animal Regulation and Care Center (BARCC) continues to further enhance its care of pets, services and programs with the hiring of Dr. Melissa Draper. She’s joined the BARCC Team as its newest Senior Veterinarian.
In her new role, Dr. Draper will provide medical care for pets housed at BARCC. Her experience and expertise will ensure that pets receive high-quality treatment, are healthy, and are ready for adoption into loving homes.
Dr. Draper will be key in further advancing the City’s humane and efficient services and programs, while sustainable a productive animal shelter system. Her responsibilities will include promoting animal welfare, increasing adoption rates, managing shelter population, and supporting public safety through disease prevention strategies.
“We are excited to welcome Dr. Draper to our team,” said Dr. Arturo Rodriguez, Director of Public Health, Wellness, and Animal Services. “Her advanced training in veterinary forensics and her passion for animal welfare align perfectly with our mission to provide compassionate, high-quality care for animals in our community.”
“Dr. Draper’s arrival marks a new chapter for animal services in Brownsville,” said Dr. Antonio Caldwell, Deputy Director of Public Health & Wellness. “Her expertise in veterinary medicine will strengthen our commitment to compassionate care, responsible pet ownership, and community health. We’re proud to have her on our team as we continue improving outcomes for animals and residents.”
“I’m honored to join the BARCC team and serve the Brownsville community,” said Dr. Draper. “My passion has always been to advocate for the well-being of animals, and I look forward to providing the best care possible and promoting responsible pet ownership across our City.”
Dr. Draper brings an impressive academic and professional background to her new role. She previously served as an Adjunct Professor at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi, specializing in Veterinary Forensics. She holds a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree from Louisiana State University and a Master’s Degree in Veterinary Forensic Medicine from the University of Florida.