Karina King

Karina King began her career working with animals as a Veterinary Technician. She earned a bachelor’s degree in Anthropology from UMass Amherst and has worked in animal welfare since 1986.

She first joined Dakin as a volunteer at the Community Spay/Neuter Clinic and founded a specialized program tailored to the population control of feral cats and kittens in the Pioneer Valley. 

Her expertise quickly evolved into a permanent staff role. Currently serving as Dakin’s Director of Operations, Karina oversees the operation of the Animal Resource Center, maintaining Dakin’s high standard of animal and client care. The Animal Resource Center treats and fosters more than 20,000 animals every year through programs including Pet Food Aid, animal transport through a large network of shelter partners, and accessible veterinary services from general wellness to the treatment of injuries and common pet health issues.

 She has served on the Board of Directors of the New England Federation of Humane Societies, a highly respected organization in animal welfare, for eight years. Karina shares her home with her husband, cats, dogs, and parrots and is an active foster caregiver for elderly dogs in need of specialized medical care.