Elisha Dillon

Director of Animal Management, Arizona Animal Welfare League

Elisha is director of animal management for Arizona Animal Welfare League, a 49 year-old limited admissions shelter. Born and raised in Texas, Elisha moved to Arizona in 2012 by way of California, while working as a dog trainer. Elisha joined AAWL’s behavior department in 2013, taking over as manager in 2015; adding intake in 2016 and dog training in 2019. Elisha has degrees in History, Biology and a Master's of Social Work. She uses these critical thinking, assessment, and development skills to help animals. Elisha played a critical role in developing AAWL’s transport partner program and coordinates the on-going program, not only managing the intake but coordinating AAWL’s reciprocal outreach to our partners. Elisha and her spouse reside in Phoenix with their 9 dogs, 7 of whom have special needs.