Welcoming Katie Krafka of Ohio Animal Advocates Board

At Ohio Animal Advocates, our board members bring diverse experiences, deep compassion, and a shared commitment to building a more humane Ohio. We’re excited to spotlight Katie Krafka, Secretary of the OAA Board and a member of our Community Engagement Committee.

Question: Was there a memorable experience that sparked your passion for animals?

Krafka: Growing up, my dad was an avid animal lover. He always had birdseed outside and put peanuts out for squirrels. We made sure our home environment was safe and welcoming for animals.

I also loved going on field trips to farms as a kid. Meeting pigs, goats, and cows was such a fun experience — they were so different from what I was used to, and I loved getting to know them.

We still enjoy visiting Young’s Dairy Farm, where you can meet and feed the animals. I love going somewhere that clearly cares for the animals and gives you the chance to connect with them up close.

Question: What inspired you to join OAA’s board?

Krafka: I’ve always had a passion for animals and the environment. As I’ve gotten older, I’ve realized just how important it is to take care of both the environment and all the animals living in it.

When the opportunity to join the OAA board came up, it really aligned with my passions and what I believe is important. I’ve spent about 15–20 years in the business and sales world, and I’m hoping to bring my communication and development skills to help grow OAA, reach more people, and tell Ohio about this wonderful organization.

Question: You’re on the Community Engagement Committee. What excites you about that work?

Krafka: I’m really excited to be part of the Community Engagement Committee because one of my biggest goals on the board is raising awareness of the organization itself.

There are so many animal lovers out there who just don’t know about Ohio Animal Advocates. That’s a huge opportunity for us — getting our name out there more and explaining to Ohioans who we are, what we do, and how we advocate for animals across the state.

I think we have so many great things to share, and I’m especially excited to highlight what makes OAA different.

Question: Which area of OAA’s work are you most passionate about right now?

Krafka: I’m especially drawn to the intersection of animal advocacy and human well-being.

For example, making sure someone who is unhoused or facing hardship still has the resources to care for their animals really touches my heart. Animals are part of the family, and the goal should be to keep them in their homes whenever possible.

Providing resources so people can stay together with their animals during tough times has become a new passion for me.

Question: What makes OAA different from other organizations?

Krafka: OAA doesn’t directly work hands-on with animals the way many wonderful shelters and rescues do. Instead, we serve as a resource.

We help people find pet food pantries, low-cost spay/neuter services, and other support so they can keep their animals. We provide humane education resources for schools and communities.

We also address a broad range of issues — from companion animals like dogs and cats to farmed animals, wildlife, and even animal testing. And because we’re statewide, not just hyper-local, our work appeals to people across Ohio. That broader lens is something I think is really special.

Question: Tell us about the animals you share your home with.

Krafka: I have one dog, Pippin — a little shelter mutt who’s part beagle and part Jack Russell. He has the sweet beagle bark and the cutest little Jack Russell ears.

He’s named after Pippin from Lord of the Rings because he’s a little “doot-do-doo” spirit — playful, fun, and just the sweetest boy.

Question: What’s your spirit animal?

Krafka: I think it would be an elephant.

I love walking, I remember people’s faces and names, I love meeting people and creating community. Elephants are community-oriented, family-centered, and strong but gentle — and that really resonates with me.

Question: What are your hopes for OAA’s future?

Krafka: My biggest hope is increased awareness. We have so much to share, and there are so many issues coming up where we can engage more people.

Growing our name recognition and helping more Ohioans understand how they can advocate for animals is a huge goal for me.

Question: If you could inspire one action from Ohioans today, what would it be?

Krafka: Visit OhioAnimalAdvocates.org. We have a brand-new website full of ways to learn and take action. You can explore our action alerts, contact legislators, share information on social media, and browse our many resources — from book lists to humane education materials.

Checking out the website is a great first step toward learning more and advocating for animals in Ohio.

Take Katie’s Advice

Submit an Action Alert today and Explore our Resources pages to see what OAA is supporting Ohio’s pets and people.

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Katie’s commitment to community-building and awareness is exactly the kind of energy that helps OAA grow its impact across Ohio. We’re grateful for her leadership and her heart for both animals and people.