A 100% volunteer-run organization proudly supported by your generous donations.
WHO WE ARE
Our mission is to heal and release native wildlife while educating the next generation of caretakers.
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 2025
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.
Main Coordinators
Briggitte Dix
Founder & Executive Director
Class II RVS Licensed Rehabber
Chemical Immobilization Certified
Certified Conservation Dog Handler
Stephanie Gomez
Assistant Director
NY State Licensed Rehabber
NY State Licensed RVS Assistant
Meghan Raquet
Programs & Hotline Manager
NY State Licensed Rehabber
NY State Licensed RVS Assistant
Christine Seddon-Groffik
Fundraising & Programs
NY State Licensed Rehabber
Kristin St. Clair
Bat Care Director
Class II RVS Licensed Rehabber
Sylvie
Director of Chaos
NY State Licensed Pain In The Bum
Interns & Volunteers
Cameron
NYS Licensed Wildlife Rehabber
Christina
NYS Licensed Wildlife Rehabber
Jackie
NYS Licensed Wildlife Rehabber
Cami
NYS Licensed Wildlife Assistant
Betsy
NYS Licensed Wildlife Assistant
Rebecca
NYS Licensed Wildlife Assistant
Erin
NY Licensed Wildlife Assistant
Natasha
NYS Licensed Wildlife Rehabber
Craig
NYS Licensed Wildlife Assistant
Gina
NYS Licensed Wildlife Assistant
Tani
NYS Licensed Wildlife Rehabber
Judy
NYS Licensed Wildlife Rehabber
Board Members
Briggitte Dix
Stephanie Gomez
Katherine Husseni
Christine Seddon-Grofik
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Meghan Raquet
Bari Steiner
Ariel Lapiano
Advisory Board Members
Judy Eisele
Accounting & Admin
Suzan Porto Esq.
Legal
Carol Tempesta Esq.
Legal
Amanda Withelier Esq.
Legal