Kim Matheson is a health psychologist whose passion lies in understanding how our social environments — including the relationships we share with animals — shape our well-being. For over 20 years, she has guided students and community projects exploring how pets can promote physical and mental health, especially among people living in poverty or with precarious housing.
This deep commitment to both people and animals led her to co-found Biscuits and Purrs Cat Rescue, a grassroots charity organization that gives second chances to rescued or abandoned cats. The rescue focuses on finding forever homes where cats can make the biggest difference: with seniors, people living with disabilities, and others who benefit from their calming, companionable presence.
Kim also manages a small home-based cattery affectionately known as the “cat flat,” where cats receive loving care before being
matched with their new families. Beyond providing shelter, food, and medical care, her vision is to build meaningful connections that heal- for both species.
Whether mentoring the next generation of researchers, collaborating with local organizations, or rescuing cats in need, Matheson’s work reflects a simple, powerful belief: when we care for animals, we also care for each other.
Dr. Malgosia Mosielski is a dedicated veterinarian and lifelong advocate for animal welfare. Born and raised in Ottawa, Dr. Mosielski pursued her passion for animals on Prince Edward Island, where she earned both her Bachelor of Science and Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degrees. She later completed a Master of Public Health at the University of Waterloo, deepening her expertise at the intersection of animal and human health.
With a diverse background spanning small animal emergency and general practice, equine medicine, and regulatory work, Dr. Mosielski has developed a unique perspective on animal care. Her professional journey has included serving as an animal welfare auditor for Canadian institutions doing research, teaching, and testing on animals, as well as working with the Canadian Food Inspection Agency in the Humane Transport division— trying to advocate for the ethical treatment of animals during transport.
Today, her focus is entirely on the animals who need it most. She runs a mobile veterinary practice that serves rescue organizations exclusively, and she is the founder of The Kind Barn, an animal sanctuary built on the belief that all animals deserve safety, dignity, and kindness.
Deeply rooted in a long-standing interest in philosophy, Dr. Mosielski is particularly passionate about animal ethics, welfare, and activism. Her work is guided by a commitment to empathy, education, and systemic change to improve the lives of animals everywhere.
Dani Villavicencio is a Filipino-Canadian graduate of Carleton University, holding a Bachelor’s degree in Media Production and Design with a minor in Greek and Roman Studies.
Passionate about impactful storytelling, they specialize in creating compelling multimedia experiences by blending graphic design, video editing, and interactive media.
Although they don’t have direct experience working with animals, they have a genuine and strong love for them.