A 100% volunteer-run organization proudly supported by your generous donations.
About Us
Our mission is to heal and release native wildlife while educating the next generation of caretakers.
We are a state and USDA licensed wildlife rehabilitation center specializing in the care and rehabilitation of native small mammal species. Our mission is to provide a safe haven for these unique animals, offering them the medical attention, nutrition, and enrichment they need to recover and return to their natural habitats.

Our medical intake station for injured wildlife arrivals
Cottontail Cottage is not only a care center, it’s also a training ground for aspiring wildlife rehabilitators seeking hands-on experience.
When founder Briggitte Dix established the cottage, her goal was to create a space to mentor the next generation of state-licensed rehabbers, who are urgently needed across New York.
We offer volunteer opportunities for those working toward their license, as well as for licensed rehabbers who wish to gain experience or contribute long-term without operating their own facility. We hope to offer comprehensive online learning programs in the future.
500+
animals rehabilitated in 2024
Interested in volunteering or learning more?
Meet the talented team who make all this happen.
Our team includes:
licensed wildlife rehabilitators, partnering veterinarians, and dedicated volunteers who share a deep love for animals.

Briggitte Dix
Founder & Executive Director
Class II NY State Licensed Rehabber, Class II RVS Licensed Rehabber

Stephanie Gomez
Assistant Director
NY State Licensed Rehabber
NY State Licensed RVS Assistant

Angelina Pil
Care & Conservation
NY State Licensed Rehabber
NY State Licensed RVS Assistant

Christine Seddon-Groffik
Fundraising and Education
NY State Licensed Rehabber
NY State Licensed RVS Assistant

Kristin St. Clair
Bat Care Director
Class II RVS Licensed Rehabber

Sylvie
Director of Chaos
NY State Licensed Pain In The Bum
Meet our Ambassador Animals
These special residents play a crucial role in educating the public about wildlife conservation and rehabilitation. Our wild ambassadors are unable to return to the wild due to injury or permanent disabilities, while our domestic ambassadors are all rescues that at one point were abandoned on the street. Our adorable team of ambassadors help us raise awareness and inspire compassion for their species by sharing their unique stories and fostering a greater understanding of the challenges they face.