About us
Who we are
Mutts on a mission is 100% volunteer based
We are a dedicated team of volunteers that believes deeply in giving back to those that have sacrificed for our country and saving the life of a forgotten dog. There is no greater gift than to save two lives in one small act.
Nina Christensen
PresidentNina has dedicated her life to being of service to others both professionally and personally. In her professional career, she has worked at several Veterans Hospitals serving our nation’s heroes. In Nina’s personal life, she has dedicated her time to several non-profit dog rescue organizations.
“Dogs are not our whole life, but they make our lives whole. For many veterans and first responders, these loyal companions offer unwavering support and unconditional love, helping to heal unseen wounds and offering a path to recovery.”
– Nina Christensen
alexandra schweitzer
Vice PresidentAlexandra comes from a long line of veterans in her family and is an avid dog lover. She has donated most of her time and resources for both causes. Mutts on a Mission gives her the ability to utilize her skills and talents to serve both our heroes and dogs.
“We can do better by our veterans and our dogs!”
– Alexandra Schweitzer
Pamela Wittkopp
Treasurer/Lead TrainerPam is the founder of Pam’s Pawsitive Training. Her experience with animals extends 35 years. Her impressive work experience includes being a Canine Evaluation Specialist and Lead Trainer at an animal shelter. Pam’s accomplishments at the shelter included implementing a Behavior Adjustment Training team, Dog Group Programs and Canine Relate Welfare Programs. Her specialty at the shelter was to rehabilitate animals suffering from various forms of fear, aggression, and other extreme behavior concerns. Recently, Pam was the Executive Director of a non-profit organization specializing in training emotional support and service dogs for our Military Veterans suffering from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder(PTSD).
Pam has earned Certified Behavior Consultant Canine(CBCC-KA) and Certified Professional Dog Trainer(CPDT-KA) certifications along with other certifications.
In addition to Pam’s expertise, she has a personal connection. Pam’s father is an Air Force Veteran and has family members currently serving on the police force. Pam, herself, has served as a First Responder for 7 years.
Kelly Tiegs
Board Member/TrainerKelly lives in Chilton, WI with her husband, dog, cat and bird. Both Kelly and her husband volunteer as first responders for their local fire department. Her love and dedication to animals began over a decade ago when she volunteered at the local animal shelter. Her training of dogs began during that time when she worked with stressed or difficult dogs.
When Kelly is not dedicating her time to training dogs, she is also an elementary teacher at a public school. She has used this as an opportunity to bring her dogs-in-training to the elementary school for the “real-world” training part of the program.
Her experience in dog training continued and her love for dogs solidified when Kelly worked for a non-profit organization training dogs for at-risk veterans.
Kelly has seen first-hand at the amazing healing powers an animal has on a human soul and spirit. She is humbled and in awe of the connection between a veteran and the dog. This positive impact is priceless.
Leah helms
SecretaryOwner of Patriot Partner Removal
Former Executive Director of Humane Society of Sheboygan County
Carlie Hopp
Advisory Board Member/TrainerMicrobiology Specialist at Sargento Cheese Company
Experienced Dog Trainer and Canine Playgroup Expert
Maureen Hoenigman
Advisory Board MemberHealth Coach, Milwaukee Veterans Affairs
Mark Flessert
Advisory Board MemberRetired Chief of Police, Village of Lannon Waukesha County
Jeff Granke
Advisory Board MemberLieutenant Jeff Granke, a firefighter since 2011, is a Critical Care Paramedic, Divemaster, and Pure Fitness Trainer. His passion for rescue animals further reflects his commitment to saving lives and promoting well-being. He is also a proud husband and father to two boys and one, four legged canine, Mojo.
Brock Peters
Advisory Board MemberPatrol Deputy, Sheboygan County Sheriff’s Office
Our approach
karen degner fund
Karen’s Fund was established to honor our beloved team member and founding member, Karen Degner, who passed away in late 2023. Karen dedicated her life to serving others and was actively involved in many veteran causes. This fund is dedicated to providing financial assistance to veterans and first responders, covering expenses such as veterinary bills, food, and supplies. Karen’s Fund was developed to support these heroes during difficult times, including illness, job loss, or other unexpected challenges. Our goal is to ensure our heroes’ cherished dogs receive the essential care they need.