Animal People
Highlighting animal lovers and the stories of the animals who have shaped their lives. Keep an eye out on our Facebook and Instagram pages for posts about new stories and read the full, exclusive interviews here!
Do you know an extraordinary animal lover with a great story, or an inspiring advocate who deserves recognition?
Joel Sartore
National Geographic Explorer, Photographer and Creator of the National Geographic Photo Ark
San Diego Humane Society Volunteer, Animal Rescuer and Trap, Neuter, Return Advocate
When sporting events came to a pause at the beginning of the pandemic, famed Scottish sportscaster Andrew Cotter found himself...
After spending life in the fast lane, Julien Solomita gives rescued greyhounds the opportunity to slow down and focus on life after the track.
Jean Spengel
Jean Spengel, a long-time local veterinarian and animal lover, founded the nonprofit Fiesta Island Dog Owners (FIDO).
Annie Petersen, Ed.D.
Annie Petersen, Ed.D., is fascinated by the roles animals can play in our lives, changing how we learn and our ability to heal.
Janice Jordan
Janice Jordan, the Co-Director of the nonprofit Friends of Ferdinand, has devoted her life to making sure animals with special needs have the care and space they need to live their best lives.
Elisha Wright
A roaring snore, goofy smile and friendly soul won over Elisha Wright when she first met Capone — and those same traits captivated the judges in the 2022 Best in Rescue show!
Alexandra Horowitz
Alexandra Horowitz is a leader in the field of canine cognition whose research paints a vivid picture of what life is really like for our beloved canine companions.
William Wegman
Multimedia Artist William Wegman has collaborated with his Weimaraners since the 1970s, creating photos and videos that have seized the fascination of art and animal lovers worldwide.
Jill Tucker
As CEO of CalAnimals, Jill Tucker has helped create a collaborative support network to empower animal welfare and sheltering organizations throughout CA.
Brian Maienschein
Through his career in public office, Assemblymember Brian Maienschein has been an outspoken advocate for animals
Officer Beverly Fitzgerald
Since joining San Diego Humane Society’s Humane Law Enforcement team in 2018, Officer Beverly Fitzgerald has made an incredible impact for countless animals and people through her compassionate work.
Danny Gorman
When an abused pit bull puppy unexpectedly entered his life, Danny Gorman discovered a piece of himself that had been missing — along with a mission to help more dogs.
Bobbi Brink
Bobbi Brink founded Lions Tigers & Bears in Alpine with the belief that exotic animals are far more than a spectacle or novelty — and each one deserves a full and rich life.
Victor Lenguyen
While Victor Lenguyen makes delectable treats for humans, he really has a sweet spot for animals!
Chris Poole
From wild big cats to feisty house panthers, Cat Man Chris Poole is a friend to all felines!
Dr. Fran Deutsch and Dr. Carole Leland
Dr. Francine Deutsch and Dr. Carole Leland share a love of animals and philanthropy, which they have combined to create a legacy of compassion for pet families in need.
Kwane Stewart
Dr. Kwane Stewart is helping ensure that beloved pets can remain with people who may be low on hope.
Laura Oliver
Laura founded Lionel’s Legacy Senior Dog Rescue in honor of a special silver pit bull who defied all odds and showed her a new way of looking at life.
Susan Rosenberg
Through her work with Greater Good Charities, Susan helps animal lovers around the world expand their impact and save more lives.
Agnès Barrelet
Agnès founded the Children’s Nature Retreat to provide solace to rescued animals.
Dawn Celapino
From hikes to runs and road trips to aquatic adventures, personal trainer Dawn Celapino is never without her trusted canine companion.
Nancy Peterson
During a long career in animal welfare, Nancy Peterson has made incredibly impactful changes for the animals she loves — cats.
With a camera lens Andrew explores the complex personalities of cats.
Geraldine D’Silva
From caring for packs of street dogs in her youth to volunteering with those experiencing homelessness across the globe, her journey has led to her current impactful role as director of Community Veterinary Services at San Diego Humane Society.
Renee Harris
Renee’s mission is to bring intention, compassion and understanding to interactions with animals, in shelters and in homes...
Kate Benjamin
If she builds it, cats will come. Cat style expert and founder of Hauspanther, Kate Benjamin combines art and functionality to create cat-friendly furnishings for homes and businesses
Adam Goldberg
Through his photography, Adam Goldberg captures timeless moments with beloved pets and helps shelter animals find a brighter future.
Cheance Adair
As a San Diego Humane Society foster and volunteer, Cheance Adair helps pets prepare for their new homes and is passionate about fundraising to create a brighter future for even more animals.
Rocky Kanaka
An entrepreneur and pet rescue advocate, Rocky’s home has been a revolving door for the last 15 years, caring for foster dogs until they’re ready for their next chapter in life.
Jennifer Fearing
As a passionate activist and lobbyist, Jennifer has been instrumental in passing laws to protect animals in California and beyond.
Jolene Figueroa
Jolene Figueroa, a San Diego Volunteer is dispelling the “scary pit bull” myth with her two velvet hippos, Fiona and Hercules, who are often adorned in tutus and bright costumes.
Gabriel Feitosa
Gabriel Feitosa — Internationally Awarded Dog Groomer — Gabriel has gained international renown for his dog grooming artistry. Gabriel pours passion and care into every pooch he styles, whether at his San Diego shop or on the set of ABC’s “Pooch Perfect.”
Megan Parry
Megan Parry — Meteorologist and TV Personality — The ABC 10 meteorologist and TV personality has a passion for pets and has spent time outside of the studio volunteering at San Diego Humane Society.
Jesse Casement
Jesse Casement, Division Director of Client Services, Father Joe’s Villages, has dedicated her decade-long career at Father Joe’s Villages to supporting San Diegans experiencing homelessness and poverty.
Kelly Maronpot & Ilana Mobley
Kelly Maronpot & Ilana Mobley, Founders Fairy Tail Pet Care, are turning “I do” into “I dog!”
Tony Wang
Tony Wang — Founder, The Cat Café in San Diego — Tony Wang opened the first cat cafe in Southern California, giving guests an un-fur-gettable cafe experience while helping cats find new homes!
Lizzie Rodriguez
Lizzie Rodriguez — Animal Advocate & SDHS Volunteer — Since her dog Rico went missing, SDHS volunteer Lizzie Rodriguez has made it her mission to expand resources for the pets and people in her community.
Lauren Coles
Lauren Coles — Designer, Coles Fine Flooring — Lauren Coles has an eye for design — and a heart for rescue pets! Lauren, a designer at her family business Coles Fine Flooring, found a passion in rescue animals, including her current four-legged family member, Sophie.
Kate Richards
Kate Richards — Author and Mixologist — For Kate Richards, happy hour is never complete without a couple of hens. The author and cocktail connoisseur finds joy in sharing her life and work with chickens (and her other assortment of pets), and spreads the free-range fun with as many people as possible.
Kioni “Kentucky” Russell Gallahue
Kioni “Kentucky” Russell Gallahue — Kioni Russell Gallahue, better known as Kentucky, found a partner for life’s ups and downs with his dog, Derby. The duo, always sporting matching blue mohawks, have gone on incredible adventures that Kentucky could not have imagined, including joining the Amazon adventure series “The Pack.”
Andrew Dale
Andrew Dale — Founder, UNITE Hair — Andrew Dale created an empire with UNITE Hair, but he wasn’t about to stop with human hair. Dale released Doggy’Poo shampoo and conditioner to keep his beloved pups clean and free from the dreaded “wet dog” smell.
Kara Winger
Kara Winger — Javelin Thrower, Four-Time Olympian — Kara, a former San Diego Humane Society volunteer, reflects on the companionship and focus that Maddie brings to her life in our Animal People interview.
Jordan Karcher
Jordan Karcher — Founder, Grounds & Hounds — Founded Grounds & Hounds, an online coffee company dedicated to giving back to local animal rescues, after a rescue Dalmatian named Molly fell into his life.
Ayeshah Al-Humaidhi and John Peaveler
Ayeshah Al-Humaidhi and John Peaveler — Animal Rescuers — Ayeshah Al-Humaidhi and John Peaveler formed a bond working long days in the hot Kuwaiti desert to build the country’s first animal shelter. Many years of dust, sweat and tears led to a beautiful family and two impactful careers in animal welfare.
Robin Gunther
Robin Gunther — Founder, Baja California Spay and Neuter Foundation —When Robin Gunther moved to Rosarito, Mexico for an early retirement, she discovered her true calling and founded the Baja California Spay and Neuter Foundation.
Jude Artenstein
Jude Artenstein — Founder, Doggie Street Festival — After sustaining serious injuries from an accident, Judith (Jude) Artenstein found a ray of hope in the companionship of her dog Scout. As he helped her recover, Jude was inspired to start the Doggie Street Festival to give back to animals in need.
Samantha Eastburn
Samantha Eastburn — CEO, SUP Pups LLC — founded SUP Pups, a local company dedicated to teaching dog lovers to stand-up paddleboard with their furry friends.
Chris Queen
Chris Queen — Animal Foster & Rescuer — Queen found her calling helping vulnerable animals, now as a dedicated foster at San Diego Humane Society.
Lili Chin
Lili Chin — Malaysia-born artist, author and illustrator — gained international recognition with her animal behavior artwork, based on her beloved Boston terrier, Boogie.
Ron Coughlin
Petco Chairman & CEO Ron Coughlin knows that animals are precious and integral parts of our lives.
Gina Lynn
Since founding New Life Animal Sanctuary in Lake Elsinore in 2008, Gina Lynn has dedicated her days — and many, many nights — to rescuing and rehabilitating test animals from laboratories.
Rachael Ray
In our Animal People interview, Rachael introduces her newest sous-chef, Bella Boo Blue, and talks about her philanthropic endeavors to help animals in need.
Miriam Rachelson
Miriam Rachelson is a teacher at San Ysidro High School who enriches her students’ lives with animal education: both in person and online.
Jenny Milkowski
Jenny Milkowski is redefining feline quality time by getting outside with her cats.
Babs Fry
Nicknamed the “Pet Detective,” Babs is an animal rescuer and pet recovery specialist who provides incredible support during the most stressful moments for pet families.
Joy Ollinger
Since joining the Humane Law Enforcement team in 2018, her days have been dedicated to helping animals in need — from cats and dogs, to roosters and foxes.
Robyn Benincasa
Robyn Benincasa is a world-class adventure racer, 3x Guinness World Record holder, Eco Challenge winner, veteran firefighter and inspirational speaker.
Garry Ridge
Garry Ridge has dedicated over 30 years to serving as CEO and chairman of the board of the well-known WD-40 company, based in San Diego.
Jason Mraz
Everyone knows Jason Mraz for writing musical hit after hit. He also runs a foundation for arts education and equality, and grows his own avocados.
Sheena Parveen
What viewers may not know is how strong her passion is for animals and the deep connection she has with rescue dogs!
Toni Atkins
California State Senate President pro Tempore Toni Atkins grew up surrounded by animals with a strong sense of compassion. She shared with us how her furry friends have shaped her life over the years, including her current dogs and how they keep her centered.
Hannah Shaw
Hannah Shaw, known by her millions of social media followers as the Kitten Lady, has built her life around rescuing the tiniest, most vulnerable creatures — some only days old! She joined us on Zoom (where we all meet now!)
Mo Nuspl
Morris Nuspl, “Mo” to most, is the friendly owner of the popular (dog-friendly) Deft Brewery in San Diego.
Sterling Davis
What started as a response to a Craigslist ad to change cat litter at an animal shelter has evolved into a passion for cat rescue – particularly Trap Neuter Return (TNR) efforts focused on helping community cats.
Kelly Gerth
Find something you love, and you’ll never work a day in your life. Kelly Gerth’s passion for animals doesn’t stop at the end of each work day.
Chase De Leo
Hockey star Chase De Leo, who currently plays for the San Diego Gulls, has spent most of his life on the ice. When he’s not skating and scoring, his time is devoted to caring for 30 animals at his family home in La Mirada!
Mayor Todd Gloria
Born into a family of animal lovers, Todd Gloria has always been a champion for animals! We had the opportunity to check in with the recently elected Mayor of San Diego, and learn more about his passion for animals and where it all began.
Dagmar Midcap
You may recognize her from TV! Local meteorologist and lifelong animal lover Dagmar Midcap shares her special affinity for all animals big and small. See what she has to say about a house full of creatures and adventures halfway across the world:
