As California faces an ongoing veterinarian shortage, the SF SPCA strengthens its capacity with two experienced hires and prepares to extend its reach beyond San Francisco.
SAN FRANCISCO (March 17, 2026)—The San Francisco SPCA is expanding its veterinary leadership with two experienced hires—Dr. Shari O’Neill as Director of Shelter Medicine and Dr. Melissa Jacobs as Hospital Medical Director—as the organization prepares for an ambitious 2026 that includes an expansion of services in San Francisco and across the state, as well as the third annual statewide adoption campaign. The additions also come at a critical time, as California faces an ongoing shortage of veterinarians, particularly in shelter medicine and underserved communities.
“The veterinarian shortage is a real and ongoing challenge across California. Bringing Dr. O’Neill and Dr. Jacobs on board strengthens our ability to deliver on our mission, both here in San Francisco and across the state,” said Dr. Jennifer Scarlett, CEO of the SF SPCA.
Dr. Shari O’Neill, Director of Shelter MedicineÂ
Dr. O’Neill brings direct experience leading shelter veterinary operations in San Francisco. Most recently she was the Shelter Veterinarian at Muttville Senior Dog Rescue, supporting senior dog care and nonprofit rescue operations. She previously served eight years as Chief Shelter Veterinarian at SF Animal Care & Control, where she led outbreak prevention and management, capacity planning, and emergency preparedness.
A graduate of Auburn University’s veterinary program with a Master of Public Health from the University of Iowa, Dr. O’Neill is a diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Preventive Medicine and holds leadership roles with the AVMA and CVMA, including disaster and emergency response initiatives.
“I’ve spent my career working to improve how shelters care for animals and respond to crises,” said Dr. O’Neill. “The SF SPCA is doing some of the most forward-thinking work in the field, and I’m excited to be part of what’s ahead.”
Dr. Melissa Jacobs, Hospital Medical Director Â
Dr. Jacobs brings nearly 20 years of clinical experience spanning general practice, emergency medicine, and house-call veterinary care. A magna cum laude veterinary graduate, she most recently owned and operated a house-call practice in San Antonio, Texas, and served as a Visiting Assistant Professor teaching undergraduate biology.
Dr. Jacobs and her family are returning to the Bay Area to continue serving animals through mission-driven work.
“Returning to the Bay Area and joining the SF SPCA feels like coming home,” said Dr. Jacobs. “I’m excited to support an organization that combines clinical excellence with real compassion for animals and the people who love them.”
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About the San Francisco SPCAÂ
The San Francisco SPCA is an independent, community-supported, nonprofit animal welfare organization dedicated to saving, protecting, and providing immediate care for cats and dogs who are homeless, ill, or in need of an advocate. The SF SPCA also works long-term to educate the community, reduce the number of unwanted kittens and puppies through spaying and neutering, and improve the quality of life for animals and their human companions. The organization does not receive government funding. For more information, visit sfspca.org.Â