Kelly Meister is a writer, photographer, and potter who lives in a converted chicken coop. She shares her home with five cats, several field mice, and a chipmunk who chewed a hole in the roof. She counts among her friends cranky horses, lost frogs, recuperating critters, and a neighbor's yellow lab. Kelly devotes much of her time to rescuing and caring for injured wildlife. She also subsidizes veterinary care for them and acts as their advocate.

Several years ago, Kelly became involved with a gang of abandoned flightless "Aflac" ducks who live on a local pond. She now liaises with Animal Control, developing strategies to keep the population in check, and the ducks safe. Most mornings, she can be found at the pond, talking to the ducks and hoping no one overhears. Kelly is also affiliated with a number of worthy animal charities. You can click on to our links and read all about them.

A survivor of childhood sexual abuse, Kelly has also discovered the healing benefits of surrounding herself with critters. "The animals have helped me in ways I never imagined they could," she says, "By being patient, loving, and trusting, they've taught me to be the same." In her spare time, Kelly takes riding lessons, volunteers at a horse rescue facility, and waits on the cats hand and foot.

www.crazycritterlady.com