10/26/2026
For Immediate Release
The Columbia-Greene Humane Society/SPCA (CGHS/SPCA) is facing an unprecedented animal welfare challenge following the rescue of 96 cats and one dog from a Catskill residence, bringing the number of cats received from two separate cruelty cases to a staggering 158 in approximately one week.
The latest rescue followed an investigation conducted by the Catskill Police Department, resulting in animal cruelty charges against Kayla Hackett of 68 North Street in Catskill. The investigation and subsequent rescue involved a coordinated effort among the Catskill Police Department, CGHS/SPCA, Mohawk Hudson Humane Society's Humane Law Enforcement Division, and the Schenectady SPCA.
While these cats have suffered from neglect, their outlook is positive. Some were underweight, and many were infested with fleas and affected by intestinal parasites. Fortunately, these conditions have been treated, and most of the cats are expected to make a full and relatively quick recovery with proper nutrition, veterinary treatment, and the compassionate attention of shelter staff. The cats are expected to become available for adoption soon, once they have received the necessary medical care and clearance.
"This is an extraordinarily horrific situation, unlike anything we've experienced in terms of the sheer number of cats arriving in such a short period of time," said Ron Perez, President/CEO of CGHS/SPCA. "I cannot say enough about the outstanding work of the Catskill Police Department. Their investigation demonstrated tremendous dedication, compassion, and professionalism, and their efforts have quite literally changed the lives of nearly 100 cats and one dog. We are tremendously grateful to the investigators and officers involved, as well as our partners at Mohawk Hudson Humane Society and the Schenectady SPCA. But now we need our community to help us complete what these dedicated professionals started. These cats have been rescued from neglect, and they're going to be just fine. What they will need more than anything is someone willing to open their home and give them the love and security they've been missing."
To help accommodate the enormous influx, CGHS/SPCA transferred 40 of the rescued cats to AnimalKind, a nonprofit cat rescue organization based in Hudson. The collaboration will help ensure that the animals receive individualized attention and appropriate care while preparing for their new lives.
"We're pleased to be able to help these cats get the fresh start they deserve," said Nicki Armsby, Executive Director of AnimalKind. "They're going to make wonderful companions, and we look forward to finding them loving homes."
The latest rescue comes on the heels of another cruelty case that brought 62 cats into CGHS/SPCA's care just last week. Together, the two cases represent a record influx of cats in such a short span of time, requiring veterinary attention, housing, food, and daily care, placing extraordinary demands on shelter personnel and resources.
Although monetary donations toward the care of these animals are welcomed and deeply appreciated, CGHS/SPCA emphasizes that its greatest need is not financial assistance, but adopters. Every cat placed in a loving home creates space and resources for another animal in need, making adoption the most immediate and meaningful way the public can help.
Fortunately, the timing presents a special opportunity for prospective adopters. Through the generous support of Subaru and its nationwide Subaru Loves Pets® initiative, CGHS/SPCA is currently offering free adoptions for cats, dogs, and small animals through October 31, 2026. All cat adoption fees at AnimalKind are also being sponsored, giving the public two opportunities to welcome a new feline companion into their homes at no adoption cost.
Prospective adopters are strongly encouraged to submit adoption applications in advance, as same-day approvals are not guaranteed. Cats rescued in the recent investigations will be available for adoption as soon as they are medically cleared, while many other wonderful cats are already waiting for homes at both organizations.
For these animals, the worst is behind them. Their recovery is expected to be swift, their futures are promising, and the opportunity to give them a new beginning is within reach. What happens next depends on the generosity and compassion of the community.
Adoption Information
Columbia-Greene Humane Society/SPCA
111 Humane Society Road, Hudson, NY 12534
Phone: (518) 828-6044
AnimalKind
721 Warren Street, Hudson, NY 12534
Phone: (518) 822-8643
Financial contributions toward the care and rehabilitation of these animals may be made to CGHS/SPCA and/or AnimalKind. Every donation is appreciated and helps to continually provide essential care to animals in need.
The Columbia-Greene Humane Society/SPCA and AnimalKind are 501(c)(3) nonprofit animal welfare organizations.
