Katie Dwight | Why Farm Animals Deserve the Same Compassion
Katie Dwight | Why Farm Animals Deserve the Same Compassion
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In this episode of the Top Dog Podcast, Katie Dwight, Co-Founder of Herd and Flock Animal Sanctuary, shares the unlikely journey that took her from practicing immigration law to caring for more than 100 rescued farm animals. What began with a decision to adopt a vegan lifestyle eventually became a mission to rescue animals, educate the public, and advocate for a more compassionate world.
Together with her wife, Katie purchased a former sanctuary property without any previous experience caring for farm animals. Starting with just a few rescued pigs and goats, Herd and Flock has since provided lifelong sanctuary to more than a thousand rescued animals while continuing to grow its impact through education and advocacy.
“We started from zero.”
One of the biggest takeaways from this episode is that education changes perspectives. By inviting visitors to meet rescued pigs, chickens, goats, and other farm animals, Katie hopes people recognize that these animals are every bit as intelligent, emotional, and deserving of compassion as the dogs and cats many share their homes with.
“They’re just as worthy as our pet animals.”
Beyond rescue, Herd and Flock has expanded its mission to include youth education through the LEAP (Leaders for Ethics, Animals, and the Planet) program, giving students hands-on opportunities to learn about humane animal care, environmental stewardship, and ethical leadership.
“I wanted to have an impact through education and advocacy.”
Katie also discusses the challenges of building a nonprofit from the ground up. From learning veterinary care and fundraising to surviving a devastating wildfire and navigating legislative advocacy, every obstacle has reinforced the importance of resilience and staying focused on the mission.
“We learned as we’ve gone.”
Throughout the conversation, Katie encourages listeners to recognize that meaningful change doesn’t happen overnight. Whether advocating for stronger animal welfare laws or inspiring individuals to make more compassionate choices, she believes lasting progress begins with small, intentional actions.
“It’s possible that radical change can occur.”
At its core, this episode is about compassion in action. Katie’s story reminds us that none of us need to have all the answers before making a difference—we simply need the courage to begin.
“I just want to spend my life trying to help others.”
This message is especially important for Dooberteers, volunteers, animal advocates, and anyone passionate about creating a kinder world. Every rescue, every conversation, and every act of compassion has the power to change lives.
If you’re passionate about helping animals, join the Doobert community where volunteers, fosters, transporters, and organizations work together to save lives every day. Visit Doobert.com to get involved.
And don’t forget to subscribe to the Top Dog Podcast on Spotify and Apple Podcasts so you never miss an episode.
Do you know any Top Dogs we should interview? We’re always looking for amazing people in animal welfare to feature on the podcast. Send us an email at tdp@doobert.com.
