Born in a small market town in England, Ann Woods’ lifelong devotion to animal welfare began with a black cocker spaniel and a home that was never without a cat. Since moving to the United States in 1989—accompanied by two feline companions—Ann has become a cornerstone of the Coachella Valley’s rescue community. Her journey into American rescue work was sparked by a chance encounter with a backyard visitor she named “Frank the Yank,” a stray who lived on her garden furniture for six months before officially joining her family.
Ann’s formal entry into large-scale rescue came in the wake of Hurricane Katrina. Responding to the urgent call for volunteers at the former Save-A-Pet facility in Desert Hot Springs, she helped facilitate the arrival of 120 displaced animals, providing them with a safe haven and a fresh start.
When a zoning change at the property left the resident cat population with nowhere to go, Ann stepped in to ensure their safety. She successfully negotiated for the land, transforming the site into what is now Kittyland Cat and Kitten Rescue. Under her leadership, the organization evolved into the only brick-and-mortar shelter in the area dedicated exclusively to felines. Over the last decade, Ann has spearheaded the monumental task of refurbishing the historic 2.5-acre property, bringing aging structures up to code and creating a specialized infirmary and sanctuary for senior, disabled, and at-risk cats.
Today, as President Emeritus, Ann continues to be a passionate advocate for the welfare of cats across the valley. Her vision has turned a once-rundown facility into a compassionate sanctuary where every cat is valued and given the dignity of a safe, loving environment.
