Rachel Fitzgerald

WHERE DO YOU LIVE?

Chetek, WI

WHERE DO YOU WORK/WHAT IS YOUR CAREER?

I serve as the Executive Director of the Humane Society of Barron County and also as a Senior Animal Rescue Responder on the Humane World for Animals Global Animal Rescue Team.

HOW LONG HAVE YOU SERVED ON THE WFHS BOARD?

Since 2025.

WHAT KIND OF PETS DO YOU HAVE?

I share my home with Olga, a deaf Great Dane, and a cat named Stewie.

WHAT ARE YOUR HOBBIES? ​

I enjoy many outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and gardening, as well as creative pursuits like painting and baking.

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO SERVE ON THE WFHS BOARD? ​​

After spending years responding to large-scale cruelty cases, natural disasters, and emergency sheltering operations across the country, I felt a pull to invest my experience closer to home. Having served as President of the Humane Society of Barron County from 2020 to 2025, I witnessed firsthand the challenges and opportunities facing Wisconsin shelters, particularly those in rural communities. 

WHAT IS A FUN FACT ABOUT YOU?​

I hold a Master of Animal Law degree and am internationally certified in animal rescue and disaster response. Throughout my career, I’ve been lucky enough to work hands-on with a wide range of species, including domestic animals, wildlife, exotics, and farmed animals, across the country.

What changes would you like to see happen in WIsconsin in regards to animal welfare?

I’d love to see increased statewide coordination and resource sharing, strengthened disaster preparedness among shelters, and improved access to affordable veterinary care. I also hope to see continued progress in ending commercial breeding cruelty and improving protections for all animals.​