Meet Our Team
The passionate people behind every rescue, every rehabilitation, and every happy ending. This is our family.
Contact Wolfe Directly
Jhettlyn Wolfe
Jhettlyn Wolfe never planned to start an animal sanctuary. In July 2019, during a scorching 104-degree Texas afternoon, she found an abandoned pit bull mix cowering in an empty parking lot. That single act of compassion—opening her car door—changed everything.
What began in her garage with one terrified dog has grown into a 5-acre sanctuary that has saved over 5,000 animals. Wolfe's philosophy is simple: every animal deserves a second chance at love, regardless of age, health, or history.
A native of West Texas, Wolfe brings a no-nonsense approach to animal rescue. She believes in transparency, community partnership, and the transformative power of unconditional love. Under her leadership, The Barking Lot has become a model for no-kill sanctuaries across the region.
When she's not at the sanctuary (which isn't often), Wolfe can be found advocating for animal welfare legislation, speaking at community events, or fostering 'the hard cases'—the animals others have given up on.
"Every animal that enters our doors receives the same unconditional love. We never say 'too old,' 'too sick,' or 'too scared.'"
Key Achievements
- Founded The Barking Lot in 2019
- Saved 5,000+ animals
- Named 'Top Animal Advocate' by West Texas Tribune (2023)
- Established 200+ foster family network
- Pioneered community surrender assistance program
Our Leadership Team
The dedicated professionals who make our mission possible every single day.
Dr. Sarah Martinez
Lead Veterinarian
Board-certified veterinarian with 15 years of experience. Dr. Martinez has performed over 3,000 surgeries and specializes in treating animals that other clinics deem 'hopeless.' She sees potential where others see problems.
Specialty
Emergency surgery, senior animal care
"Medicine is science, but healing is love."
Marcus Thompson
Operations Director
Former Marine who found his purpose in rescue work. Marcus runs our facility like a precision operation—because these lives deserve nothing less. He oversees daily operations, facility maintenance, and emergency response protocols.
Specialty
Facility management, emergency protocols
"Structure saves lives. Every detail matters."
Elena Rodriguez
Foster Coordinator
With a network of 200+ foster families, Elena orchestrates a symphony of temporary love that leads to forever homes. She personally interviews every potential foster, matches animals to families, and provides ongoing support.
Specialty
Foster matching, behavioral assessment
"Every foster home is a bridge to happiness."
David Chen
Adoptions Manager
David believes the perfect match is out there for every animal. His thorough yet compassionate approach to adoptions has resulted in a 95% successful placement rate. He follows up with every adopter for a full year.
Specialty
Family matching, adoption counseling
"The right home isn't just about space—it's about heart."
Amanda Brooks
Volunteer Coordinator
Amanda manages our army of 150+ dedicated volunteers. From dog walkers to event coordinators to adoption ambassadors, she ensures everyone finds their perfect role in our mission.
Specialty
Volunteer training, event coordination
"Everyone has something to give. We help them find it."
Carlos Mendez
Animal Behaviorist
Carlos specializes in rehabilitating animals with behavioral challenges. His patient, positive-reinforcement approach has transformed hundreds of 'unadoptable' animals into beloved family pets.
Specialty
Trauma recovery, behavioral modification
"Every behavior tells a story. We just need to listen."
Join Our Volunteer Family
We have 150+ dedicated volunteers, and there's room for you too. Find your perfect role in our mission.
Dog Walkers
Daily exercise and socialization for our canine residents
2-4 hours/week
Cat Socializers
Quality time with our feline friends to prepare them for adoption
2-4 hours/week
Adoption Ambassadors
Help facilitate meet-and-greets and adoption events
4-8 hours/week
Transport Volunteers
Drive animals to vet appointments and adoption events
As needed
Event Coordinators
Help plan and execute fundraisers and community events
Project-based
Administrative Support
Data entry, phone calls, and office organization
Flexible