Local Kitten Rescue Calls for More Responsible Pet Owners

Only one in four kittens survives life outside without human care and intervention

This week’s Northern Express — sister publication of The Ticker — is the Pets issue, and Kelly Lemcool, owner of Kelly's Kritters rescue in Grawn, is asking the community to be better stewards of our feline friends.

“The odds are way against our local outdoor kittens, and only one in four survive making it to adulthood,” says Lemcool. “There truly needs to be a process in place that helps our cat population, but there isn’t. And by the time we’re called, many of these cats are already on the brink, so quick action is important.”

Working around the clock to change kitten statistics locally, Lemcool has helped 300 cats already in 2026 and thousands since first opening her doors seven years ago. Now, Kelly’s Kritters supports up to 40 cats at a time at their facility and through the fostering program. Read more here.

Pick up a free copy of this week’s Northern Express, available to read online or at one of nearly 650 spots in 13 counties across northern Michigan.