Pictured: Veronica Thames. Photo courtesy of Dogs Inc.

Dogs Inc. is entering a new chapter with the appointment of Veronica Thames as CEO, effective October 15, 2026. With more than two decades of experience across philanthropy, healthcare and nonprofits, Thames brings a proven track record of strengthening organizations, investing in people and advancing meaningful community impact. Currently CEO of Manatee Community Foundation, she joins Dogs Inc, a national nonprofit providing expertly trained guide and service dogs, along with lifelong support, completely free of charge to people with disabilities. Check out our Q&A below to learn more about Veronica as she steps into her new role at Dogs Inc.

What drew you to Dogs Inc?

What drew me to Dogs Inc was its focus on transforming lives and creating opportunities for all, a mission I discovered after moving to the U.S. at 19 for my father’s job. As a Latina immigrant with opportunities I wouldn’t have had otherwise, I feel a duty to invest in the community that welcomed me. And where else can one get puppy hugs at meetings? For 40+ years, Dogs Inc has provided life-changing guide and service dogs and support at no cost to recipients. I’m dedicated to honoring those who built this organization and bringing these partnerships to more people.

You’ve spent more than two decades strengthening nonprofits and developing people. What leadership principles will you bring to Dogs Inc, and how do you hope they will shape the organization’s culture?

Over two decades in leadership, I've learned that an organization's impact is only as strong as its people. I lead with my “3 Ts”: Trust, Transparency, and Team. Building trust and psychological safety inspires innovation and commitment to our mission. Communicating with transparency encourages alignment and ownership of goals. Focusing on team is at the core of talent retention. We must create an environment where collaboration thrives. I cannot wait to invest in our team, volunteers, and supporters so everyone understands how their contributions help make that magical connection between a graduate and their life-changing guide or service dog possible.

As you begin your tenure, what are the priorities you’ll be listening and learning about first—and what would you hope to accomplish in your first year as CEO?

My first months at Dogs Inc will focus on listening and learning. I’ll shadow our teams (and, if they allow me, help!) as they care for and train dogs. I’ll connect with graduates to understand their experience, from application through the years after receiving a dog, and with donors, volunteers, and community partners to learn how we can support our community. By year's end, I hope to work with our board to begin a strategic planning process focused on greater impact: growing our capacity to create more partnerships between people and dogs, strengthen community relationships and expand our reach. 

Pictured: Veronica Thames. Photo courtesy of Dogs Inc.