Introducing AAGS Spay/Neuter Staff

Left to right: Deanna Legnetto, Executive Director, and Annie Danko, Practice Manager, of the AAGS Spay/Neuter Clinic.

We are excited to announce two key hires who will help lead the launch and operation of the AAGS Spay/Neuter Clinic. As we continue working toward our clinic, these experienced and passionate professionals will play an important role in bringing additional affordable, spay and neuter services to pets and families throughout Central New York. Please join us in welcoming Executive Director Deanna Legnetto and Practice Manager Annie Danko to the AAGS team!

Executive Director: Deanna Legnetto

Hi there, my name is Deanna! I'm a Central New York native and a Syracuse University alumna. I've always had a heart for animals, being the go-to dog and cat watcher for family and friends. I've even worked a second job providing overnight pet-watching services and enjoy making homemade dog biscuits. I led projects and teams in the healthcare industry for years before wanting a new path. Volunteering at a local animal shelter opened my eyes to working for the benefit of people and animals and it really gave me joy. Before finding AAGS, I helped run a rehabilitation farm for thoroughbred racehorses located just outside of Saratoga Springs. One thing that drew me to working with AAGS was the opportunity to provide something that genuinely helps people, animals and the community as a whole. In this position, it is my responsibility to carry out the mission and goals of an organization, its volunteers and supporters, that have worked so hard to get to this point. I've never been afraid of a challenge and I'm ready for this one. Being able to transform an idea into a tangible task is what gets me up in the morning. On sunny weekends you can find me and my black cat, Meeko, basking in the sun on the back deck, watching my boyfriend's German Rottweiler, Cash, run around.

Practice Manager: Annie Danko

Hi I’m Annie! I’m originally from the Midwest, I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Animal Science and have dedicated my career to improving the lives of animals and the people who care for them. After moving to New York more than two years ago, I quickly discovered how much the state has to offer and have enjoyed becoming part of the Central New York community. Throughout my career, I have had the opportunity to manage a mobile veterinary clinic throughout New York State, a  non profit cat shelter, and a pet boarding facility, experiences that have strengthened my passion for animal welfare and community service. I joined Animal Alliance of Greater Syracuse as their Practice Manager because I recognized both the tremendous need for affordable veterinary care, spay and neuter services  and the organization’s unwavering commitment to helping animals and families in our community. I am excited to support and expand the important work already being done through fundraising, community outreach, and efforts to increase access to spay and neuter services throughout Central New York. When I’m not working, I’m usually spending time with my rescue cat, Jasper, who has traveled across the United States with me and has been my constant companion through many adventures and life changes.