Did you know that Texas has more than 30 million people and has 51 counties with zero veterinarians? Due to the current veterinarian shortage in Texas, there is no way to meet the current demand for the roughly 20 million dogs and cats in homes and in shelters across our state.  This presentation will focus on the future of veterinary medicine by analyzing the current national landscape, examining the progress being made in other states, and looking at survey data from pet owners.

Our panel will also discuss the future of veterinary telemedicine in Texas, recent case law, and how it can benefit your shelter and rescue.

Featured Panelists

Dr. Roberta Westbrook
Chief Animal Welfare and Medical Officer of Houston SPCA

Dr. Roberta Westbrook is a Chief Animal Welfare and Medical Officer at Houston SPCA based in Houston, Texas. Previously, Roberta was an Associate Veterinarian at Palm to Paws Veterinary Clinic and held positions at Vet Tech Institute of Houston. Roberta received a Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine degree from the University of Missouri.

Katie Jarl
Vice President of Government Relations of Animal Policy Group

Katie Jarl is the Vice President of Government Relations. She has dedicated nearly two decades to the advancement of key animal welfare and healthcare policies and initiatives through advocacy campaigns at the local, state, and national levels. Utilizing her unique background in government affairs, media relations, and community engagement, Katie brings a fresh, strategic approach to policy initiatives.

Jaime Olin
THLN Vice President and Legislative Chair

Jaime is currently a partner with the Dallas law firm Skiermont Derby, practicing patent and commercial litigation. Before that, she worked as a Legal Advocacy Counsel with the ASPCA, focusing on animal welfare litigation, animal cruelty prosecution support, and equine welfare issues. She’s taught courses and given countless presentations on animal cruelty laws, the LINK, and various other animal law topics.