Michelle Ward

Officer Michelle Ward is probably the quietest Animal Service Officer in the group, but she has gained some of the most unique experiences with some of the most exotic animals. She worked for Performing Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) as an animal keeper. PAWS is a society dedicated to caring for abused or neglected performance animals. While with this organization, Michelle cared for monkeys, tigers, lions, bears, and cougars. Her favorite part of the job was hand feeding a lion named “Amanda” who could not eat off of the ground.

After working for PAWS, Michelle worked for the SSPCA, and Sacramento County Animal Care and Regulation. Officer Ward has been working for the City of Elk Grove since 2005. She enjoys working with baby animals, and thinks baby goats are the cutest things.

Even though Michelle has worked with many of different types of wildlife, her favorite type of animals are reptiles. She stated, “I’m a fan of anything that slithers, hisses, or strikes. My favorite reptile is a Savannah Monitor because they love to sunbathe, go for walks, climb trees, go swimming, and sleep next to you.”

Michelle is a proud owner of two Pit Bulls named “Charlie” and “Sammy” and two cats named “Walon Jennings and “Mr. Wilson.” When she is not working with animals she is either watching football at the Brickhouse or searching for a new fishing spot.

Gerald Skibby

Gerald Skibby, an Animal Service Officer for the City of Elk Grove, began his career with the City in March of 2008. Prior to his employment with the City, Officer Skibby worked for the Sacramento SPCA for 7 years. While working for the SSPCA, he developed the knowledge and skill to effectively read an animal’s behavior and body language. The ability to determine whether or not an animal is approachable has been deeply instilled in Officer Skibby and it serves him well while serving the City of Elk Grove.

When asked about his favorite part of his job, Officer Skibby stated it is, “removing neglected and unwanted animals from poor conditions and giving them a second chance to find a real home.” He went on to explain, “reuniting lost animals back with their owners is a great feeling.”

Officer Skibby’s life is surrounded by animals, at work and at home. He is a proud owner of 2 dogs, 2 cats, and 5 red ear sliders. His Boxer is named Jake the Snake, the American Staffordshire terrier is Charlie, the orange tabby is named Cheeto, and Maine Coon mix is named Jack. During Officer Skibby’s free time, he enjoys fishing, camping and watching football. Officer Skibby has a great sense of humor and is always smiling. If you get the opportunity to meet him in person, go up and say hi. We promise he has passed his temperament test!