Welcoming Krystal Abbott, the new manager of the Orillia and District Animal Centre 

We’re excited to share that Krystal Abbott has stepped into the role of manager at the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society Orillia and District Animal Centre. 

Krystal takes over the manager position from Janna Handiak, who has stepped into the role of Operations Manager of the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society Barrie and District Animal Centre and the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society Marion Vernon Memorial Animal Clinic.

A next chapter in animal welfare 

For Krystal, this new chapter is more than a career milestone; it’s the natural next step in a journey shaped by compassion, dedication, and a lifelong love of animals. In high school, Krystal volunteered at her local animal centre and, nearly four years ago, she joined the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society as a career driven by a desire to help animals in need. Since then, she has grown with the organization, moving through roles in animal care, then coordinator, and now into leadership. 

A role rooted in compassion 

 In her new role, Abbott looks forward to deepening connections within the Orillia community and continuing to help give animals in need a second chance by matching them with the perfect family. 

“Animals are truly my life, both at work and at home,” says Krystal. 

Her greatest motivation comes from providing compassionate care and advocating for animals who need it most, especially those who may be harder to adopt. Krystal believes that patience, empathy, and education can make all the difference in helping animals find their second chance. 

“I truly believe every animal deserves the chance to be part of a loving family,” she says. “That belief drives me every day.” 

Care beyond her career 

Outside of work, Krystal’s life is just as full of animals and love. She lives on a farm in Oro-Medonte with her husband, whom she’s been married to for nearly 19 years, and their three children. Their home is shared with three dogs, four cats, two rabbits, and six alpacas. 

“Family, farming, and animals are at the heart of everything we do,” she says. 

We’re thrilled to have Krystal leading the Orillia and District Animal Centre and look forward to the care, dedication, and heart she brings to this role and to the many lives she’ll continue to impact.