Laura Moody

Laura Moody is a nonprofit leader, animal advocate, and customer service professional based in Sparta, Michigan, whose work is centered on compassion, rehabilitation, and community impact. As the founder and executive director of Second Chance Cats of West Michigan, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit rescue organization, Laura has dedicated herself to helping cats from difficult backgrounds heal and find loving homes. Specializing in rehabilitation, she works closely with animals that have experienced neglect, abandonment, or life on the streets, giving them the patience, medical care, and trust-building support they need before becoming adoption-ready. Alongside her nonprofit leadership, Laura also works in customer service, where her passion for helping people complements her lifelong commitment to caring for animals.

Laura’s path into rescue work began through a background in healthcare and hands-on veterinary support. After earning her Associate of Applied Science degree from Grand Rapids Community College, she gained experience as an x-ray technician and medical assistant before discovering her passion for animal rescue while volunteering in Colorado. Through years of on-the-job training at rescues and veterinary clinics, she developed extensive expertise in animal rehabilitation and feline care. When several local cat rescues closed during the COVID-19 pandemic, Laura recognized a growing need in her community and founded Second Chance Cats of West Michigan in 2021. Since opening its doors, the organization has steadily expanded, increasing adoptions by approximately 20 percent each year while creating a safe and supportive environment for vulnerable cats.

Known for her patience, empathy, and determination, Laura believes that successful rescue work depends not only on physical space, but on the strength and compassion of the surrounding community. She credits much of her success to the support of local volunteers, adopters, and animal advocates who have helped the rescue grow and thrive. One of her proudest accomplishments remains the day the rescue officially opened after months of planning, paperwork, and persistence. Looking ahead, Laura hopes to continue expanding her impact in the animal welfare field while someday combining her passions for both animals and people through a role with Chewy. Her work reflects a deep commitment to second chances — for both the animals she rescues and the communities she serves.