Starting as an animal control officer before becoming a veterinarian, Kate witnessed firsthand how shelters often lacked the medical knowledge, resources, and systems needed to properly care for animals.
Marnie Russ, founder of the National Kitten Coalition and Kitten College, shares how she turned a passion for kittens into a nationwide movement focused on saving the most vulnerable animals in shelters.
After leaving a successful career in lobbying, Marnie dedicated her work to neonatal kittens — the most euthanized, yet most adoptable animals in shelters.
With a background in mathematics, Natalie’s journey into animal welfare began through volunteering — but quickly evolved into a mission to address the root causes of animal issues.
“If I can help pass a law… I can help thousands of animals.”
One of the biggest takeaways from this episode is the importance of thinking beyond direct care. While rescue work is critical, systemic change through legislation and education can prevent suffering at a much larger scale.
After studying shelter medicine at the University of Florida, Erika returned to Japan and founded the Japan Animal Shelter Alliance — translating critical resources and building a network to support shelters and volunteers.
Her journey started with a shift in perspective after seeing how animal shelters operate differently around the world.
