Located in Orange County – just north of New York City

New York, N.Y. — Nestled in the Hudson Highlands of Fort Montgomery, New York, the Animal Saints Rescue Society is quietly transforming the world of animal rescue.

Led by the compassionate and tireless Cynthia Ivey Abitz and her husband, artist and volunteer Joshua Ivey Abitz, the nonprofit organization has emerged as a beacon of hope for animals in dire need.

Founded in 2022, Animal Saints Rescue Society embodies a deeply heartfelt mission: to rescue animals from overcrowded shelters, offer them sanctuary, and educate the public on the value of every living creature.

Cynthia was inspired to begin Animal Saints Rescue Society after adopting her first Shih Tzu in 2010.

Artie and Wolfie, father and son, were part of a horrific backyard breeder situation involving over 100 dogs who were barely surviving on cornbread and lard. Cynthia was inspired to help more like them.

She and her husband began taking in the so-called “misfits” and “unadoptables.” Animal Saints Rescue Society’s Sanctuary for Shih Tzu began through this experience. 

Tilly’s journey of healing and resilience became the spark behind Tilly Transit, the organization’s no-cost transport service that moves at-risk animals from high-kill shelters to loving homes across the Tri-State area.

“Animals are saints,” says Cynthia, reflecting the organization’s core philosophy. “They forgive, they love unconditionally, and they show a resilience we should all learn from.”

Animal Saints Rescue Society doesn’t just rescue animals—they honor them.

With an emphasis on dignity and respect, the rescue focuses primarily on Shih Tzus and other hypoallergenic “hair-not-fur” breeds, animals often overlooked or abandoned due to age or medical issues.

A key partnership with the New York Shih Tzu Rescue Society, led by Jim Luce, has expanded their impact significantly.

“It is an honor to work with Jim Luce to help save lives together. There is a mutual respect and friendship through our shared love of Shih Tzu.” says Cynthia.

“It really hurts to know that about half a million shelter dogs are put down each year. People like Cynthia make a real difference.”

“In the entire country, I believe they are the
premier rescue society, and I could not
recommend them more highly,” says Luce.

The organization’s programs
are both strategic and heartfelt.

The Help Them All Initiative identifies animals on euthanasia lists and prioritizes their rescue.

Tilly Transit—funded entirely by donations and staffed by volunteers—ensures that no dog is left behind due to geography.

Meanwhile, the Shih Tzu Sanctuary connected to the Ivey Abitz home provides medical care and love to elderly, ill, or traumatized dogs who may never find another home.

Joshua Ivey Abitz brings his creative spirit to the rescue’s public-facing efforts.

Through art campaigns, short films (see below), and social media storytelling, he shines a spotlight on the lives being saved—and the volunteers, donors, and adopters making it possible.

The adoption process is thorough, designed to guarantee lifelong matches.

Prospective adopters must submit handwritten applications, provide personal references, complete home checks, and commit to attending positive reinforcement training. The final step, a ceremonial contract signing, is a celebration of new beginnings—for both pet and person.

Beyond rescue, Animal Saints Rescue Society works to change the public perception about shelter animals.

Through its Animal Advocacy Education Center, the organization partners with schools, shelters, and senior centers to spread awareness about humane treatment, spaying and neutering, and the importance of lifelong commitment.

The nonprofit’s funding comes from generous donors and creative collaborations, including a clothing line called Ridge Road Collection, which donates proceeds to the rescue.

As a 501(c)(3) organization (EIN 93-1415338), all donations are tax-deductible, ensuring supporters can contribute with confidence.

One particularly touching rescue story is that of Mr. Scruffy McDuffy, a neglected Shih Tzu on a euthanasia list in a New York shelter.

After being rescued and nurtured back to health by Cynthia and her team, he was adopted into a loving family and now thrives in his new home—a testament to the impact of dedication and compassion.

As the rescue society approaches its third year, its influence continues to grow—not just in Fort Montgomery but across the entire New York region. With love, strategy, and a powerful sense of purpose, Animal Saints Rescue Society is proving that even the most vulnerable animals can find hope, healing, and a home.

To learn more, donate, or get involved, visit AnimalSaints.org.

Photos left: Before and after of Penelope, a resident at the Animal Saints Rescue Society Sanctuary. Penelope is an example of the extreme abuse and neglect cases Animal Saints Rescue Society seeks to help.

Tags: Animal Rescue, Shih Tzu Rescue, Fort Montgomery, Dog Adoption, Nonprofit Organization, Animal Advocacy, Humane Education, Tilly Transit, Volunteer Organization, New York Animal Shelter

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