
K9 Crew Board Members
Founder & President: Kristi Cabena
In June 2024, Kristi Cabena moved to Las Vegas without knowing a single person—but quickly found her community through social media and a shared love for animals. What started as volunteering soon became a calling, driven by her deep compassion for dogs in need.
With a lifelong background in the medical field—beginning her career as a paramedic—Kristi’s commitment to care and service has always been central to who she is. That same compassion naturally evolved into animal rescue work, where she found her true purpose: saving lives, one paw at a time.
Kristi has volunteered in every aspect of rescue, from fostering and coordinating adoption events to hands-on field rescue. Through these experiences, she witnessed firsthand the gaps in local resources for lost, abandoned, and at-risk dogs—and felt compelled to take action.
Now, as the Founder and President of Las Vegas K-9 Crew Rescue, Kristi is dedicated to building a rescue that focuses on compassion, collaboration, and community. Her mission is simple but powerful: to rescue, rebuild, and rehome—ensuring every dog has the chance to feel safe, loved, and home at last.
Vice President: Kelly Angeletti
Animals have been an important part of my life for as long as I can remember. Over the past several years, I have devoted much of my time to volunteering with animal rescues, gaining hands-on experience and a deep appreciation for the impact we can make in the lives of animals in need. Supporting their journey to safety, compassionate care, and loving homes has become one of my greatest passions.
As Vice President of Las Vegas K9 Crew Rescue, I am proud to help build this organization from the ground up and to collaborate with a team that shares the same dedication and heart. Our mission is to serve the Las Vegas Valley and surrounding communities, ensuring every animal we welcome, has the opportunity to experience the safe, happy life they deserve.
Secretary: Krista Grogan
My love for dogs started when I was a little girl. My dad was very ill at a young age and I found comfort with our cocker spaniel that we adopted.
Helping dogs find forever homes and get the lives they deserve has always been a passion of mine. I’m lucky to have found like minded people in my community that feel the same way.
I lost my soul dog in January of this year, 4 months later I rescued my heart dog, Frito. He helped heal a very broken heart and keeps me guessing every day about what shenanigans he’s going to get himself into.
Treasurer: Heather Machnak
From a young age, Heather has been guided by a deep love and compassion for dogs. What began as childhood admiration for their loyalty and spirit grew into a lifelong commitment to helping them find safe, loving homes.
Working with a group of amazing friends that share the same love and compassion for dogs, Heather has embarked on a new endeavor to help create an organization that can give dogs the opportunity they deserve to live a safe, happy and healthy life
For Heather, every wagging tail and every successful adoption is a reminder of the power of compassion and community. Her journey reflects not only her devotion to dogs but also her belief that working side by side with friends can create brighter futures for animals and the people who love them.