Sara Pizano, D.V.M., is responsible for the oversight of the newly created Miami-Dade Animal Services Department.

She began her career as a veterinarian intern at the Animal Medical Center in New York City, one of the busiest animal centers in the country. She moved to South Florida in 1998 and has been very involved in the animal care community. 

She brings to Miami-Dade more than 11 years of experience in the field of veterinary medicine and animal services delivery, including five years as the director of veterinary services for the Humane Society of Broward County, where she was responsible for managing a $1 million budget and increasing clinic donations by 231 percent. 

Previously part of the Miami-Dade Police Department, the Animal Services Department, was created as a stand-alone entity in October 2004 to provide focused care for the County’s animal population. Each year, the Animal Services department cares for about 32,000 dogs and cats. By becoming an independent entity, the Animal Services Department will be able to concentrate its resources on its core mission of caring for the animals in its custody, as well as working towards the goal of good health for all pets and animals in the County.

Dr. Pizano holds a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from Cornell University.