Monica Scrivner: Building the Future of DCSPCA

At the Dutchess County SPCA, every animal has a story and so does every person who walks through our doors. Today, we are sitting down with someone whose story has been intertwined with ours for decades.

Meet Monica Scrivner, our new Executive Director. From rescuing kittens in New Hamburg to leading our Board of Directors, Monica’s journey is fueled by a deep-rooted passion for animal welfare and the community that supports it.

Monica discusses her history with the shelter, her love for cats, and her vision for the future of the DCSPCA.

A Lifelong Connection: From Towel Donations to the Boardroom

Tell us how you first got involved with the DCSPCA.

“My connection to the DCSPCA goes back as far as I can remember. My family donated towels, blankets, and supplies for years. But my personal journey really began while I was in college and living in Brooklyn. Every weekend, I’d come back to New Hamburg to visit family and friends, and during one of those visits I met a small orange kitten who had been dumped near White’s Marina. He’d wandered over by my parents’ house, and each weekend he seemed to be getting sicker.

One Sunday, we couldn’t leave him behind. When I called the DCSPCA, one of the veterinarians happened to be in and offered to see him as long as I stayed—because the shelter was full. That kitten, Indy, turned out to have food allergies. Well-meaning neighbors had been feeding him, unknowingly making him very sick. We took Indy home, and he stayed with us for nearly 17 years.

A few years later, I adopted a calico kitten from the DCSPCA who became my best friend. After deciding our house was officially “full,” I figured the best way to give back was to volunteer. That lasted exactly one day—I went home with Oscar, an older cat with the same allergies as Indy.

After losing Indy, Popoki, Oscar, and Twitch (who came from a NYC rescue), the house felt far too quiet. So back to the DCSPCA I went, where I adopted Spider, Monkey, and Mouse. Somewhere along the way, the staff realized I was both committed and a little unhinged in the best way—and invited me to join the Board in January 2025. I stepped into the role of Acting President that August and am now honored to be transitioning into Executive Director.”

More Than a Shelter: A Safety Net for the Community

What does it mean to you to take on this leadership position?

“This role is incredibly meaningful to me because the DCSPCA represents more than sheltering animals—it represents support for people during some of their hardest moments. Many families don’t want to surrender their pets; they’re facing temporary challenges like financial hardship, housing instability, or health issues. Our safety-net programs are designed to step in before a crisis forces a heartbreaking decision.

Through our pet food pantry, low-cost wellness clinic, and community support services, we help keep pets healthy, fed, and where they belong—with the people who love them. Just as important, I believe strongly in investing in the growth of our team. Supporting our staff through professional training, mentorship, and coaching ensures they have the tools, confidence, and support needed to do this challenging and deeply compassionate work well.”

Life at Home: The "Non-Animal" Animals

Tell us about your current pet family.

“Currently, my home is run by three cats—Spider, Monkey, and Mouse—all DCSPCA alumni. They’re all named after animals they are not, but certainly animals they act like. Each has a big personality, strong opinions, and absolutely no concept of personal space. They’re also daily reminders of why supporting both animals and their people matters so much.”

What are some of your favorite pastimes or hobbies?

“Outside of work, I love spending time with my horses and getting outdoors. Hiking some of my favorite local trails is one of the best ways I reset and recharge. And of course, animals are never far away—whether at home, in the barn, or out in the community.”

Looking Ahead: The Future of DCSPCA

How are you embracing this new role in these early days?

“I’m focused on listening—both internally and out in the community. That means spending time with staff and volunteers, meeting partners and supporters, and understanding how people experience our programs. Building strong relationships helps ensure our services continue to meet real community needs.”

What can DCSPCA supporters expect to see in the months and years ahead?

"Supporters can expect an increased focus on community engagement and accessibility. We’ll continue to strengthen programs like the pet food pantry, wellness clinic, and other safety-net services that help families stay together, while also investing in our people and encouraging more ways for the community to get involved—through volunteering, fostering, partnerships, and advocacy.

The DCSPCA has long been a trusted resource for animals in need. Moving forward, we are committed to being just as strong a resource for the people who care for them.”

What can the community do to help and get involved?

"There are so many ways to make a difference. You can organize a donation drive at your workplace, school, or neighborhood; volunteer your time; sponsor an animal or one of our events; engage with us on social media to help spread the word; or make a financial contribution to support our programs. We also always welcome donations of blankets, towels, pet food, and other wishlist items that directly support the animals in our care.

Every act of support - big or small - helps strengthen our ability to serve animals and the people who love them."