The HDC team
The HDC team: together for the dogs and cats
The team at the Haags Dierencentrum (HDC) consists of dedicated professionals and volunteers who work daily for the well-being of shelter dogs and cats. With knowledge, experience, and love, we provide shelter, care, medical treatment, and rehoming for animals.
The various teams within the HDC work closely together and are managed by director Jolijn Giesbers and operational manager Mirjam Smit. In addition, there are regular consultations with external parties such as the municipality and other animal welfare organizations.
The disciplines within the HDC team
Director
Dog caregivers and cat caregivers
Veterinarians and clinic assistants
Receptionists
Volunteers in all departments
- Marketing staff and volunteer coordinator
Team Dog
Team Dog consists of Anita, Björn, Naomi, Ashley, and Fabiënne. All staff members are certified cynological behavioral therapists or are currently in training.
We work according to the principles of positive upbringing and guidance. Every day, we care for, feed, observe, and guide an average of about 30 shelter dogs. Together with our volunteers, we get to know every dog well.
When a dog needs extra support, we create a personal behavioral or treatment plan. This allows us to work specifically on reducing unwanted behavior and strengthening desired behavior.
During adoptions, we take plenty of time for an introductory meeting. We discuss the dog’s needs as well as the expectations of the future owner, so we always strive for the best match for both human and animal.
Team Cat
Team Cat consists of Naomi, Saskia, Carlijn, Cassandra, Killian, and Layla. Together with our volunteers, they provide daily care for all shelter cats in the animal center.
The tasks include:
Feeding and keeping the enclosures clean
Medical care, such as medication and IVs
Identifying illnesses and behavioral changes
Observing social behavior and well-being
Every cat is carefully monitored for both health and behavior. We look at things like social skills, need for affection, interaction with other cats, and suitability for a family. We record this information to ensure a responsible rehoming process.
All cat caregivers are certified behavioral therapists or in training. For behavioral problems, we always work in an animal-friendly and positive way, with one goal: a safe and loving new home for every cat.
Team Clinic
In our clinic, veterinarians Nadine, Jasmijn, and Allie work, supported by assistants Mirjam and Jessica. Volunteers Joke, Edith, and Anneke complete the team.
The HDC clinic provides care for all shelter dogs and cats. This ranges from physical exams, microchipping, and vaccinations upon arrival, to neutering/spaying and starting a treatment plan if necessary. Necessary surgeries are also performed regularly.
You can find detailed information here.
Team Reception
The reception of the Haags Dierencentrum is the first point of contact for visitors, adopters, volunteers, and donors. This is where all questions, reports, and appointments come together. From picking up a shelter animal to scheduling an introduction or providing information about our services.
The team ensures a warm welcome and helps visitors find their way within the HDC. At the same time, they maintain an overview and coordinate daily with animal care, the clinic, and other departments.
The team consists of:
– Ellen
– Irma
The Board
As of April 1, 2025, the board of the Haags Dierencentrum consists of:
- Drs. S.G. (Sophia) Schwarz, Chair
- Drs. J.R. (Jorn) van der Drift, Treasurer
- Mr. Ir. J.G.G.M. (Jan) van Knippenberg, Director of Housing and Sustainability
- P.H. (Pierre) van Beusekom, General Director (also chair of the industry association: Dutch Federation of Animal Welfare Organizations)
- D.H. (Djisri) Groise, HR Director
- Drs. H. (Henriëtte) Balt, Board Secretary
Fundraising and Volunteer Recruitment Team
The office team consists of two employees:
Brigit: volunteer coordinator, she is the main point of contact for all volunteers. She provides guidance, scheduling, and support, and knows better than anyone how important dedicated and motivated volunteers are to the animal center.
Dominique: marketing employee, she handles everything related to communication and visibility. From social media and the website to campaigns and events.
The volunteers
At the Haags Dierencentrum, about 150 volunteers make a difference for our animals every day. They dedicate themselves to caring for dogs and cats, support the clinic and foster care, help at events, and assist with IT, fundraising, and household tasks. Thanks to their effort, commitment, and love for the animals, we can give every animal the care and attention it deserves. Our volunteers are the silent heroes of the HDC and ensure that the center remains a safe, warm place for both animals and people.
Can we help you?
Contact details Haags Dierencentrum
Please note: we are open by appointment only.
Address
Opening hours
We are open by appointment only.
- Monday to Saturday 12:30 PM to 3:30 PM
- Closed on Sundays
We can be reached by phone between 9:00 AM and 11:30 AM & 12:30 PM and 4:00 PM.
