Meet the Pack
Our all-volunteer team behind every rescue, transport, and second chance
Crystal NetardusBoard of Directors / President & Case Manager
I’ve been part of Cypress Lucky Mutt Rescue since 2013, when I first started fostering and fell in love with helping dogs find their forever homes. In 2016, I took over from the original founder and have been leading the rescue ever since. I’m a proud mom to two awesome furbabies, Beefcake and Penny, and two human kiddos who keep life busy and fun.
Pitbulls and mutts have a special place in my heart—I love showing people how amazing these dogs really are and busting the myths that surround them. Over the years, I’ve helped hundreds of dogs in need, and in 2020, I co-founded our transport operations to give even more pups a shot at a happy life.
Whether I’m working behind the scenes or out in the field, I’m passionate about making a difference for every dog that crosses our path.
Paige Whitton CarterBoard of Directors / Treasurer & Case Manager
My passion for dog rescue began in 2011 when I started fostering and then in 2013, I adopted my dog, Blue, from Cypress Lucky Mutts. From that moment on, I knew I wanted to play a role in helping reduce the homeless pet population.
Since joining Cypress Lucky Mutts, I have fostered over 800 homeless dogs, helping nurse them back to health and preparing them for their next chapter in a loving forever home. Each dog’s journey has reinforced why this work matters so deeply to me. In my role as Treasurer, I’ve gained invaluable insight into the behind the scenes, day-to-day operations of a rescue and let me tell you, it is hard work. But it is also incredibly rewarding. I remain committed to supporting these innocent animals and standing alongside the passionate, “crazy” animal rescuers like me who make this life saving work possible.
Taryn WrightBoard of Directors / Secretary & Case Manager
Hi, I’m Taryn Wright, mom to my own Lucky Mutt, Hazelnut, and a lifelong dog lover. After watching from the sidelines for years, I decided I wanted to get involved and make a real difference. Since 2021, I’m the one keeping things organized behind the scenes at Cypress Lucky Mutt Rescue. I absolutely love dogs—especially American Staffordshire Terriers and Pitbulls! While I might not always be fostering dogs, I’m the person making sure all the paperwork is in order and the rescue “business” side stays on track.
Playing a role in helping dogs find their happy endings is what it’s all about for me. Whether I’m answering emails, updating records, or just sneaking in a few cuddles with foster pups, I’m proud to be part of a team that strives to give every dog a second chance.
Beth HeinkelCase Manager
My name is Beth, and I am a Professional Dog Trainer with a passion for rescue. After moving to Texas from the Midwest six years ago, I joined Cypress Lucky Mutts and have since dedicated my home, time, and expertise to helping dogs get a second chance. To date, I have fostered and cared for over 2,000 dogs, guiding them from uncertainty to confidence and adoptability.
I have a deep respect and love for all breeds, with a special passion for German Shepherds and a strong mission to advocate for Pitbulls—dogs who are often misunderstood yet incredibly loyal, intelligent, and loving. I believe that every dog, regardless of background, deserves compassion, structure, and the opportunity to thrive.
Through training, rescue, and advocacy, I help dogs become their best selves and find their forever homes.
Katy MartinezCase Manager
My journey in rescue began 20 years ago with a neighborhood stray and a simple desire to help. Two decades later, that passion evolved from feline-focused to canine-centric. After fostering my first two puppies for Cypress Lucky Mutt Rescue in 2017, I realized the staggering reality of the homeless pet population in Houston.
Today, my home is a beautiful, chaotic sanctuary shared with my very patient husband, our daughter, five cats and six Lucky Mutts of our own. While the heartbreak of the rescue world is real, the reward of seeing an unwanted dog find their forever home is incomparable. My furbabies serve as my daily reminder that every animal, no matter their past, deserves a loving future.
Jerny RojasCase Manager
In my early 20s, my dad came home with a surprise that would change my life. In our backyard stood Jellybean: 14 pounds underweight, covered in bloody scabs, and somehow still greeting me with hugs and kisses. I spent weeks trying to find her home, and in the process, I learned about the homeless dog crisis in Texas. Every post broke my heart, but one in particular changed everything: a three-month-old puppy chained outside in 100-degree heat. That was the moment it clicked: WE are the help. WE are the rescue. No one is coming to save these dogs unless we stand up, speak out, and be their voice. From the moment I scooped up that emaciated puppy, I’ve never stopped networking, fostering, and picking up pups in need. I’ve been fostering with Cypress Lucky Mutt for over 8 years, and just recently became a Case Manager. I’m incredibly blessed to have a rescue that supports and stands beside me as we continue fighting to save more lives.
