Compassion in Action for Cats in Need

At AnimalKind, we believe every cat deserves safety, compassion, and a second chance. Founded in 2000 by Katrin Hecker in Hudson, New York, AnimalKind is a nonprofit animal welfare organization committed to ending feline overpopulation and homelessness through rescue, care, and prevention.

Our mission is simple but powerful: to save the lives of cats and kittens while supporting pet owners in underserved communities. We provide rescue, medical care, adoption services, spay/neuter clinics, and foster programs—giving thousands of vulnerable animals the chance to live healthy, loved lives.

Over the years, we’ve built a reputation for stepping in where others can’t. Whether it’s a sick stray kitten, a feral colony in crisis, or a senior cat left behind, AnimalKind is there, responding with heart, skill, and dedication.

We’re more than a shelter. We are a community resource, an advocate for humane solutions, and a voice for those who cannot speak. Every life matters, and at AnimalKind, we act on that belief every single day.

Staff:

Nicki Armsby, Interim ED
Nikki Winchester, Vet Assistant
Abby Snyder, Ast Shelter Manager
Kathy Kraft, Lead Vet Technician
Xavier Johnson, Vet Assistant
Our Enclosure Coordinators:  Pat, Jan, Paula, Ann, Sarah, Aoife, Tony, Nick, and Landen

Veterinarians:

  • Dr. Charles “Pete” Schaubhut     Chief Veterinarian

Shift Veterinarians:

  • Dr. Brittany Lee
  • Dr. Jeantte Maucher
  • Dr. Leo Frasson Reis  (Veterinarian-in-Training)
Nancy Whelan, Records Manager
Robin Kintz, Vet Technician
Sammy Blish, Adoption Counselor
Grant Coordinator:  Andrea Ebert

Board of Directors:

  • Linda Gui, Board Chair        
  • Karen Aluise, Board Vice Chair

  • Nicki Armsby, Board Treasurer

  • Clare Zierhut, Board Secretary

  • Alana Hauptmann

  • Haillie Meek

  • Ken Kidd

  • Amy Stahlman

Johanna Hanlon, Lead Vet Technician
Amanda Kozlowski, Vet Assistant
Chloe Werner, Care Coordinator

Honorary Members:

  • Carolyn Marks Blackwood

  • Chip Chapin

  • Vivian Kimmelman

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