LaMa Animal Rescue hosted a reception July 22 at The Lucky Pup to honor Webster Parish Sheriff Jason Parker and Deputy David Robinson for their dedicated work in animal control and public service.
Deputy Robinson, Webster Parish’s first animal control officer, was presented with an award marking his retirement. Sheriff Parker also received an award from LaMa for his continued commitment to the Webster Parish Sheriff’s Office Animal Control program.
Michelle Lewis, president of LaMa, praised both men for their roles in establishing and sustaining the parish’s animal control efforts.
“Jason Parker stood by his campaign promises when he ran for Webster Sheriff,” Lewis said. “He pioneered the way by founding Webster Parish’s Animal Control Office — with David Robinson as the first ever officer. Over his (David’s) years working there we saved hundreds and hundreds of dogs together.”
Following the reception, attendees toured the animal control facility and discussed upcoming projects and opportunities for collaboration. LaMa currently takes in approximately 80 percent of the dogs processed through Webster Animal Control’s stray hold program.
Guests at the event included Chip Layton from Congressman Mike Johnson’s office, Chief Deputy Hank Haynes, current Animal Control Officer David Dick, Michelle Lewis and Ashley McVey of LaMa, and John Barr from Senator John Kennedy’s office.
Sheriff Parker expressed gratitude for the recognition.
“I was honored to receive the award from LaMa,” he said. “LaMa has been a big part of our animal control success….we couldn’t do it without them.”
Ashley McVey, vice president of LaMa, shared a personal story about Deputy Robinson’s dedication, recalling a time he spent hours helping her try to rescue an abandoned dog in Doyline.
“She was too smart for us — but he never made me feel silly for trying,” McVey said. “I’m sure countless people all over Webster Parish have similar stories. He left some big shoes to fill.”
Winnie is now living her best life in Texas. “She is thriving today because of David’s help and guidance. He never gave up on us,” said McVey.