Kirstin
Founder & Director
Kirstin has spent her life deeply connected to animals, turning her passion into not just one, but two meaningful careers. She began as a veterinary technician and clinic manager, dedicating years to hands-on animal care, before shifting to her current role as a wildlife biologist. Today, she channels her professional energy into fish research, but her heart remains firmly tied to her love of dogs.
Alongside her partner, Kirstin fosters dogs for multiple rescue organizations, specializing in the care of newborn puppies and senior dogs. Though she proudly calls herself a foster, her track record suggests otherwise, every senior dog who has come into their home has become a permanent family member.
Kirstin shares her life with two cherished dogs: a young, high-energy Staffordshire Bull Terrier and a sweet senior Pointer. She loves spending time teaching them new skills, from basic obedience to advanced trick training, agility, and nose work. Through her experiences, Kirstin has seen first-hand the profound emotional support dogs offer to people navigating life’s challenges. But she believes nothing compares to the life-saving impact of a highly trained service dog.
Kirstin founded Pawsabilities Service Dog Society with a clear purpose: to advocate for accessible service dogs and to help bridge the financial gap that prevents many people from receiving this essential support. She is driven by the belief that no one should be denied the opportunity to experience the freedom, stability, and life-changing connection that a service dog can provide.
Through Pawsabilities, Kirstin is committed to addressing this critical community need, working one meaningful partnership at a time.
“The bond with a true dog is as lasting as the ties of this earth will ever be.” – Konrad Lorenz
