About us

JCN was founded in 2000 by American expats. After success helping the cats in their own Japanese community through Trap-Neuter-Return, they realized there was potential to help pets across Japan if there were more avenues for support. They created JCN with the goal to help others start local TNR programs and rescue efforts.

After the earthquake and tsunami in Northern Japan on March 11, 2011, hundreds of thousands of residents were displaced and forced to leave behind their animals. JCN expanded and began working in Fukushima to help evacuees care for and rescue animals left behind. The Inawashiro Shelter was established in May 2011, and for eight years the shelter continued to serve the local community until its relocation to Tokyo. In 2015, a second program was started in Kyoto. Soon after, JCN began working in cooperation with Maneki Machiya guesthouses and cat café.

Our mission

  • TNR of all strays across Japan and beyond

    TNR is the practice of trapping, neutering, and returning animals to their home territory. The result is that cats live healthier lives, and the suffering of sick and unwanted kittens is dramatically reduced. 100% TNR is achievable, especially on an island nation like Japan. Our outreach spans internationally, inspiring TNR projects globally.

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  • Animal welfare education/resources for all

    Our network has provided education and aid to desperate rescuers and families across the globe. There is a particular need in Japan for accessible resources for foreigners, whether it be access to English-accessible veterinarians or ethical adoption services. We fill that gap to benefit all involved: the humans, the community, and the animals.

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  • High quality of life, high quality adoptions

    We believe in the inherent value of all life, and will always be a no-kill organization. We vow to upkeep a consistent quality of care that will never waver. Our multi-step adoption process is thorough for their protection and to guarantee finding their forever homes. The care of those we have taken responsibility for will always be our priority.

    Our rescues

Meet the core team

  • Susan Roberts

    FOUNDER
    BOARD PRESIDENT, KYOTO PROGRAM DIRECTOR

  • Louise Renard

    BOARD SECRETARY, TOKYO PROGRAM DIRECTOR

  • Genna-Marie Kilduff

    BOARD TREASURER, DONOR RELATIONS

  • Sue Torgersen

    BOARD MEMBER

  • Luís Raimundo

    VETERINARY TECHNICIAN, KYOTO COORDINATOR

  • Lee DC Atkin

    TOKYO COORDINATOR

Want to support our mission?

The easiest way to help save lives is by donating to support the work we do.

It is not only volunteers, but also donors like you that keep us going!