Kelly’s Critter Crew: Hornell’s Haven for Small Animals in Need

By: Johanna Elattar

On a quiet street in Hornell, Kelly’s Critter Crew (KCC) stands as a beacon of hope for small animals in need. This small animal rescue, founded by Kelly and her husband, has been a labor of love for the past two years, providing a safe and secure environment for animals that have faced neglect, abuse, or abandonment.

Kelly’s Critter Crew specializes in rescuing small animals, offering sanctuary to those that cannot be adopted out due to behavioral or medical issues. With approximately 40 animals currently under their care, the rescue houses a diverse array of creatures: 11 guinea pigs, 15 rabbits, 2 birds, 3 hedgehogs, 2 tortoises, 2 degus (small rodents native to Chile), 2 dogs, 4 rats, 2 cats, and 2 horses housed at a separate location. Each animal receives the love and care they deserve, ensuring they live in a safe and nurturing environment.

Kelly, a former EMT who now works with Catholic Charities, and her husband, started the rescue after recognizing the dire need for specialized care for small animals such as rabbits and rats. Over the past two years, they have successfully helped 50 animals find new homes. Their first rescue, a guinea pig named Tonka, remains a testament to their dedication. Some of their rescues have even been adopted as far away as New York City, showcasing the wide-reaching impact of their efforts.

Running a small animal rescue is fraught with challenges. Kelly’s Critter Crew relies heavily on donations, volunteers to socialize the animals, and fundraising initiatives to keep their operations afloat. One of their ongoing projects is establishing an animal food pantry, aimed at helping pet owners who struggle with the cost of pet food. This initiative is designed to alleviate financial burdens and enable more people to keep their beloved pets at home.

A typical day at Kelly’s Critter Crew starts early. Health checks are performed on all animal residents, followed by feeding, watering, and providing snacks. Ensuring the well-being of their animals is a top priority, and they often consult Dr. Ramos of Affordable Veterinary Service to address any medical needs.

The adoption process at KCC is thorough, requiring a $20 adoption fee, a vet reference, and a suitable cage setup for the animal. If an adopter can no longer care for their pet, KCC welcomes the animal back with open arms. The rescue also actively engages with the community through public events, bringing their creatures to nursing homes, schools, and events where children with emotional issues can interact with the animals. These interactions help raise public awareness about the plight of small animals and the importance of responsible pet ownership.

Kelly’s Critter Crew collaborates with various organizations such as Guardian Pet Palace, Cozy Cats and Kittens, and Life On The Wild Side to enhance their public outreach efforts. Future plans for KCC include launching a kids program that allows children to interact with and learn about the animals. This educational initiative aims to foster a sense of responsibility and compassion in young animal lovers.

KCC will be participating in Thursdays At The Square by the Community Bank in Hornell. Additionally, they have a special event at the Hornell Public Library on July 31st at 12:30 pm, called “Reading To The Animals,” where children can read to the animals brought by KCC. Research indicates that reading can have a calming effect on shelter animals, providing them with soothing company as they await adoption.

Kelly’s Critter Crew is more than just an animal rescue; it is a sanctuary where small animals find safety, love, and a second chance at life. Kelly and her husband’s unwavering commitment to their cause has made a significant impact on the lives of countless animals and the Hornell community. As they continue to grow and expand their efforts, KCC remains a testament to the power of compassion and the profound difference it can make in the lives of vulnerable animals.

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