We are expanding to Long Beach California animal care helping animals animal shelter
The Critter Creative Crew
Amy Hunter
Shannon Mitchel
Amy Hunter
As the CEO of the shelter, Amy Hunter leads with a deep passion for animals and a vision of saving as many lives as possible. With her relentless drive and heart for rescue, Amy has built this sanctuary into a place of healing and second chances for animals in need. She oversees every aspect of the shelter, ensuring it remains a beacon of hope for animals and the community.
Megan
Shannon Mitchel
Amy Hunter
Megan ensures that the shelter runs smoothly day in and day out. With a sharp mind for logistics and a heart for animals, she keeps everything in order—whether it’s making sure the animals have the care they need or organizing staff schedules. Megan is the calm in the storm, always ensuring the shelter is a safe, efficient space for everyone involved.
Shannon Mitchel
Shannon Mitchel
Shannon Mitchel
Shannon oversees the daily operations and the creative aspects of the shelter, from organizing fundraising events to curating the art gallery. Her love for both animals and the arts shines through in everything she does, making the shelter a warm and welcoming place for visitors and animals alike. Shannon is also the heart behind many of our creative fundraising efforts.
Alex Riviera
Derek “DJ” Walker
Shannon Mitchel
Alex connects the shelter with the local community, organizing adoption events and working with local artists and businesses to raise awareness. Their creative flair and strong connections within the community help bring our mission to life in ways that engage and inspire others. Alex’s passion for both animals and the arts drives our most successful events.
Derek “DJ” Walker
Derek “DJ” Walker
Derek “DJ” Walker
DJ brings energy and flair to our shelter’s volunteer and donor programs. With his bright personality and his talent for connecting with people, DJ is a natural at building lasting relationships with those who support our mission. He ensures our volunteers feel appreciated and that donors see the direct impact of their contributions. DJ'
DJ brings energy and flair to our shelter’s volunteer and donor programs. With his bright personality and his talent for connecting with people, DJ is a natural at building lasting relationships with those who support our mission. He ensures our volunteers feel appreciated and that donors see the direct impact of their contributions. DJ's dedication makes our shelter a thriving hub of community and compassion.
Who We Are - The Critter Creative
Our Facility
Our shelter is located on the outskirts of Frederick, Maryland. Shannon, a wonderful, empathetic soul is taking care of the facility while Amy relocates to Long Beach, California. Right now, visits are on hiatus so the change in management can go smoothly.
- Adoption Area: Our shelter has dedicated areas for each type of animal. Dogs have spacious, clean kennels, each with a name and profile prominently displayed. Cats enjoy a cozy, well-ventilated space, offering both individual and shared areas. Each animal is provided with soft bedding, toys, and an environment designed to minimize stress and make them feel at home.
- Outdoor Play Area: Our secure, fenced-in yard provides dogs with a place to play and socialize, complete with grassy areas, agility equipment, and shaded spots to relax. Potential adopters can interact with the dogs in this safe, inviting space. Visitors can also enjoy a small garden with seating, providing a tranquil setting to connect with our animals.
- Quarantine/Medical Area: We maintain a clean, well-organized medical area for assessing and treating animals. Everything is in its proper place, ensuring that our staff can provide the highest level of care in a safe and controlled environment.
- Overall Vibe: Our shelter blends professionalism with warmth, offering a balanced space where both animals and people feel cared for. The atmosphere is structured yet compassionate, providing a safe, comfortable haven for animals while making the adoption process as smooth and welcoming as possible.
Pet Adoption Process
Once we receive your application, we’ll review it and respond with any questions or concerns. If everything looks good, we’ll move to a phone interview, then schedule an in-home visit to get to know you, your space, and any other pets.
Afterward, we’ll connect you with the foster home caring for the animal we think is the best fit for you. They’ve spent time with the dog or cat, so they’ll be able to tell you everything you need to know. If all goes well, we’ll arrange an adoption date, and you’ll need to prepare for the new addition.
Expect to spend some time talking with the foster home, learning as much as possible. We’re here to make sure this match is successful.
Keep Us Posted! We want to hear how things are going with your new family member. Our foster homes and volunteers are always here to help you through any challenges. Stay in touch and let us know how the transition is going—we’re as invested in this working out as you are.Thank you for your interest in adopting from us. Our goal is to find the best possible home for every animal, and the information you provide helps us make a perfect match. We appreciate the effort you’re putting in to make sure these animals find the loving homes they deserve.
Our Impact
Every day, we open our doors to animals who have known nothing but fear, pain, and neglect. These are the forgotten ones—the ones who’ve been abandoned, mistreated, or left to face death in overcrowded shelters. But when they come to us, we do more than just offer a safe place. We breathe life back into them.
From the moment they arrive, broken and afraid, we begin the long journey of healing. Some come with broken bones; others, with broken spirits. Every wag of a tail, every soft purr, is a step toward recovery. But we can’t do this alone.
Without the support of our community, these animals face the unthinkable. Our shelter is their only hope, but the cost of care, food, medical treatment, and sheltering is immense. We rely on the generosity of people like you to continue giving these animals a second chance.