Patty Hegwood

A New Orleans native, Patty’s has served nearly three decades as an animal welfare professional. She and a local veterinarian opened a hospital in the New Orleans area and catered to 22 humane rescue organizations as well as a robust clientele. They operated a high volume spay/neuter clinic and adoption center along with a full-service clinic. Following Hurricane Katrina where Patty stayed on the ground to help rescue efforts, she met Best Friends Animal Society and knew they were kindred spirits.
Patty has served as the Animal Care Director, overseeing a population upwards of 2,000 animals comprised of 11 different specie. She had oversight of many rescue and disasters relief efforts including the negotiations with attorneys and the USDA for the release and care of 22 Michael Vick ex-fighting dogs that were slated for euthanasia or sanctuary. Best Friends notably took in these dogs and they changed the course of outcomes for dogs seized in fight busts.

Patty then embraced the role of the inaugural Director for the newly formed Volunteer and Visitor Experience Division for Best Friends Animal Society. Her division focused on all of the touchpoints relating to the visitor and volunteer experience. She now serves as the creator of Donor Connections Strategy relating to the Human/Animal bond and has several live broadcasts relating to members and supporters as they navigate pet loss.

Concurrently, Patty has served on the Spaymart board for well over a decade and is devoted to delivering opportunities for spay/neuter, access to care, and adoption options for animals in the New Orleans area. Patty is well aware of the challenges in the New Orleans area and is focused on delivering outcomes that will increase opportunities for pets to be placed and/or remain in their homes as a viable lifesaving outcome.