As Albuquerque faces what some are calling a “kitten takeover,” shelters across New Mexico are stretched to capacity. In this episode, Daniel Ettinger and Ashley Bishop sit down with Val Wilson, Executive Director of Animal Humane New Mexico, to discuss what’s behind the surge in kitten intakes and how shelters can adapt to the changing landscape of animal welfare.

Val shares insights from her leadership journey and the innovative strategies her team is using to balance lifesaving outcomes with sustainable operations. From expanding foster networks to improving access to spay and neuter, she explains how collaboration—not competition—is the key to weathering the storm of kitten season.

We also explore the human side of shelter work: how to maintain staff morale, prevent burnout, and lead with compassion during times of crisis.

Whether you’re an animal control officer, shelter professional, or advocate for community cats, this episode sheds light on what it takes to keep it humane when the kittens take over.