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Columbia Greene Humane Society

Bill Williams

Monday, October 26th, 2026 11:42am

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.

While these cats have suffered from neglect, their outlook is positive. 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. 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.

"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.

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.

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.

Columbia-Greene Humane Society/SPCA
111 Humane Society Road, Hudson, NY 12534  
Phone: (518) 828-6044  
Website: www.cghs.org

AnimalKind
721 Warren Street, Hudson, NY 12534  
Phone: (518) 822-8643  
Website: www.animalkindny.org