Robin: Partner

Over 12 years of Animal-Handling Experience, Specializing in Reptiles

Robin was with us from the start in New York and was also one of the handlers sent to Indiana to run our facility there before the decision was made to close it in 2007 and keep all business exclusively in New York.  Since then, Robin has relocated back to New York, and not only is he part of our canine/equine support staff, but he is also our reptile specialist.  We are very fortunate to have all of his many talents at Chrissy's!

Valerie (11 years old): Junior Partner in Training

Over 8 years of Animal-Handling Experience

Not only is Valerie Chrissy's daughter, but she is also one of our most enthusiastic, and experienced animal handlers!  This is not surprising, since Valerie has been around animals her entire life and learns quickly from other staff members.   Valerie is always eager to help with whatever care the animals need - whether it's feeding, exercising, babysitting, cuddling - you name it - Valerie is always up for the task!  She is a tough cookie and we love that she is such a huge animal lover and an eager helper!

Leanne: Equine Specialist

Over 12 years of Animal-Handling Experience

Leanne is an extremely important part of the Chrissy's Castle staff.  She has been with us for many years, initially working as a groom in Chrissy's personal barn.  She then graduated to being one of our top animal handlers for off-premises jobs as well as running the New York facility during the Summer of 2007 when Chrissy was in Indiana.  Leanne is a "jack of all trades" if you will, juggling all aspects of our animal assignments, including overnight house-sitting, off-premises assignments, and filling in at the Brewster location.  She is always on call and a truly dedicated, hard worker.  We have no clue what we would have done without her all these years!

Elmer: Pit Bull - Chrissy's Personal Dog

Official Ambassador to doggie guests

3 Years of Animal Socialization Experience (because he's only 3 years old!)

Elmer is probably the most beloved member of Chrissy's Castle of Critters - everybody who meets him loves him.  His start in life was a very rough one - cruel teenagers poured hot glue on his front paws when he was only 4 weeks old.  Thank goodness an angel was watching over him and brought him to a rescue group, which is how Chrissy ended up with him.  The scars still remain, but judging from the love in Elmer's heart, you would never guess what a horrible experience he had as a tiny puppy.  So many of the animals and staff at Chrissy's love him and many of our doggie guests look for Elmer when they first arrive, because he is always the one dog they know from past visits.  So yes, we at Chrissy's have a soft spot for the Pit Bull breed - the most loyal, affectionate, loving, yet most abused, and most misunderstood breed that's out there.  We do board well-behaved Pit Bulls that owners know the history of and that pass our temperament test.