About our Founder
Emma McCoy, the founder of Nichelem Animal Sanctuary, was raised on a farm where her lifelong connection to animals first began. She had her first cat at just three years old and spent her childhood riding and showing horses. At 13, she was given the opportunity to train with a highly skilled couple — one specializing in English riding and the other in Western. Under their guidance, Emma learned training, teaching, judging, farm management, and the care of many different animals. These experiences laid the foundation for the work she would devote her life to.
Emma went on to earn degrees in Animal Science (pre-vet) and Agricultural Business Management, along with a minor in both animal and human nutrition.
After college, Emma started a horse farm and began rescuing cats and dogs. What began as an act of compassion, she realized was a true calling. "Caring for animals had always been a calling for me, and turning that passion into a daily part of my life felt like the natural next step." Believing in the healing connection between people and animals, and knowing her God-given talent of analyzing human and animal behaviour, she created the sanctuary.
A knee replacement surgery, which she hoped would make life easier, instead left her fully disabled. Despite the physical challenges, Emma remained unwavering in her commitment. Her determination only strengthened her mission to give everything she could to the animals who depended on her. "Their care and well-being remain my top priority, no matter the obstacles."
Now, more than twenty years later, Emma continues rescuing, rehabilitating, and caring for animals every day. She does not take sick days, holidays, or vacations. Her life is fully centered around the sanctuary, its animals, and creating an enviornment where animals and youth can heal and grow together in a place of God's creation.
