Meet the People Behind Medical Mutts

SCIENTISTS, TRAINERS, BEHAVIOR SPECIALISTS, DOG LOVERS

Every service dog partnership begins with a team committed to giving both people and rescue dogs a second chance.

TOGETHER OUR TEAM HAS

100+

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Years combined experience

550+

Rescue dogs given a second chance

300+

Service dog teams supported

Multiple

Scientific publications and presentations

WHY OUR TEAM IS DIFFERENT

Science

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We pioneered research proving that trained dogs can detect the scent of seizures.

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Experience

Decades of experience training service dogs and supporting people with disabilities.

Rescue

We give shelter dogs a second chance and transform life together.

Lifetime support

Our commitment doesn't end at placement. We're with you for the life of the dog.

LEADERSHIP

Our leadership team combines decades of experience in animal behavior, nonprofit management, scientific research, and service dog training. Together, they guide Medical Mutts' mission of transforming rescue dogs into life-changing service partners while advancing the field through research, education, and compassionate care.

Jennifer Cattet Ph.D.

Co-founder, President, Chief Program Officer

Ph.D.

CPDT-KA

Over 40 years in training dogs
Author and researcher
Co-author of medical alert dog peer-reviewed studies.
International service dog instructor for professional trainers and organizations - CMAC

Jennifer's passion for science and animals combines to create life-changing partnerships between people and rescue dogs.

Richard Shields

Executive Director

With more than 20 years of nonprofit leadership experience, Rich specializes in fundraising, strategic partnerships, marketing, and organizational growth. He works to strengthen Medical Mutts' financial sustainability and expand the reach of our programs. Rich's passion for building strong communities and lasting partnerships helps create more life-changing opportunities for both people and rescue dogs.

Jack Topham

Co-founder

As Co-Founder of Medical Mutts, Jack helped turn the vision of giving rescue dogs a second chance into a life-changing organization. His experience in service dog training, operations, and client support helped shape the programs and values that define Medical Mutts today. Jack's dedication to helping both people and dogs continues to inspire our mission and remains an important part of our story.

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Meet the People who Make it Happen

While our executive leadership provides the vision, our program leaders oversee the day-to-day training, client support, canine care, and medical services that meke every partnership possible.

PROGRAM LEADERSHIP

Eva Rudisile

CPDT-KA CMAC-CT

Director of Training

Eva oversees Medical Mutts' training program, mentoring trainers and ensuring every service dog is trained to the highest standards using positive reinforcement and evidence-based methods. Her leadership helps transform rescue dogs into life-changing partners.

Director of Client Services

Melissa leads our Client Services Department, guiding clients from their first inquiry through graduation and beyond. With expertise in animal behavior and behavior modification, she is dedicated to creating successful partnerships between people and rescue dogs.

Senior Dog Trainer

Ann mentors our training team and specializes in developing advanced service dog candidates. Her expertise in shelter behavior, behavior modification, and fear-free training helps rescue dogs become confident, reliable partners for people with disabilities.

Melissa Morris

CPDT-KA CMAC-CT

Ann Spitz

CPDT-KA CMAC-CT

Lucy Conner

Canine Care Supervisor

Lucy oversees the daily care and well-being of our dogs, providing the enrichment, exercise, and compassionate care they need to thrive. Her dedication helps every rescue dog build the foundation for a successful future, whether as a service dog or in a loving home.

Medical Coordinator

Nicole coordinates the health and medical care of our dogs, working closely with veterinarians and our training team. Her attention to every dog's well-being helps build the healthy foundation needed for success as a future service dog.