PSHR Board of Directors

Amy Thornton, President

Amy's journey with Siberian Huskies began by chance when she adopted her first Husky, Chuki, and instantly fell in love with the breed. That moment sparked a passion that led her to become deeply involved with Patriot Siberian Husky Rescue (PSHR). "They're like potato chips… you can't have just one!" she often says. Over the years, her pack has evolved, but her commitment to PSHR has remained steadfast.

As President, Amy is dedicated to using her skills to support and empower the incredible team of volunteers who work tirelessly to rehome Huskies in need. She also enjoys educating others about the unique characteristics and needs of the breed, ensuring every dog possible finds its perfect forever home.

In her spare time, Amy loves walking her pack around town, exploring nature through hiking, and tackling home improvement projects. Her vision for PSHR includes fostering a stronger community and introducing new initiatives to strengthen the rescue's impact.


Andrea Falherty, Vice President

Andrea got her first AKC Siberian in 2006. Having volunteered for all breed rescues prior she found Patriot and began volunteering in early 2009. Andrea quickly became an incredible asset to the rescue and was elected Volunteer Director in 2011,  President in 2012-2018 and currently serves as our Vice President. Andrea has a strong drive to help the breed and to help educate people on the needs of the breed. Not just an average owner, Andrea has behavioral training, grooming and agility experience and enjoys hiking and socializing her own pups. One of her greatest passions is talking to people about the breed and sharing her joys of owning a Siberian. Andrea has a true passion for helping Siberians in need and a wonderful rapport with people. When it comes to her, it really is all about the dogs.


Jennifer Miles, Treasurer

Jenn first connected with PSHR in 2010 with the adoption of Yukon as a companion to her current husky, Denali. Once Yukon passed, she started volunteering for the rescue in his honor, to do her best to help place wonderful dogs in wonderful homes. She has been working in the capacity of treasurer since 2024.


Whatleigh Torsey, Volunteer Director

Whatleigh Began her journey with Siberians in 1999 when she began collecting her dog sled team. She has owned over 50 Siberians, including many rescued elder Siberians, many of those sled dogs from New England. Her current kennel is now nearly equal amounts of retired dogs from her team and her currently working dogs. She started working in rescue in the early 2000's. She was treasurer for many years but has since moved into a new role as Volunteer Director. Whatleigh loves everything about Siberians and shares their adventurous spirits and friendly natures. She loves to help people find their next furry family members and to support them as they earn their stripes as rescue parents. Her years in Siberians has shown her how much can be accomplished with love in the training tool box.


Eleni Roriz, Secretary and Social Media Director

Eleni has been a lover of all animals since she was a young girl, and always wanted a dog. Fast-forward to age 22 when Maggie came into her life. A Siberian mix, Maggie was in need of a stable, loving home and Eleni was psyched to be able to give her that. Shortly after getting Maggie, she realized how special the breed was and found Patriot and began volunteering.

Ten years later, after Maggie died at age 13, Eleni adopted her first puppy, from Patriot, Juno Lavender. Juno was a true Sibe: a stealth escape artist, loud talker, chaser of any small animal she saw (except turkeys), and a beautiful girl inside and out.

Eleni lives in Massachusetts with her husband and 2 young children, who keep her very busy! And is on the lookout for another Sibe to join her crew.


Janelle Tarantino - Member at Large

Janelle's had a long time love of the breed and got her start volunteering with Patriot after adopting Sasha in 2004 as a companion for her husky, Niko. Over the years she assisted in manning the phones, working on adoptions and surrenders and various fundraising initiatives. She truly enjoys helping find that perfect match for a husky in need while also providing education on the breed.

In Loving Membory - Deb Gamari

Deb served for over 14 years with PSHR in various capacities but mostly as the Director of Volunteers. Her presence will always be missed and her spirit will always be with us.

In Loving Memory: Tracy Kureta

Tracy served for over 12 years with PSHR in various capacities. Her presence will always be missed and her spirit will always be with us.


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