Little Rascals Wildlife Rescue in Montcalm County

Little Rascals Wildlife Rescue in Montcalm County

In this episode of the Discover Montcalm Podcast, host Duane Weed sits down with Sara Dido, the founder of Little Rascals Wildlife Rescue, a growing wildlife rehabilitation effort based in the Howard City area. With Montcalm County surrounded by forests, fields, and plenty of Michigan wildlife, Sara’s work fills a major gap in the region — especially when it comes to caring for raccoons and other small mammals.

Sara Dido – Little Rascals Wildlife Rescue

Sara didn’t begin her journey expecting to become a wildlife rehabber. After moving from the Detroit area to West Michigan to study biology at Ferris State University, she discovered a family of orphaned raccoons living in her shed. With no nearby rescues accepting raccoons, she reached out to Wildheart Wildlife Rescue and became a sub-permittee, learning the skills needed to support orphaned and injured wildlife under a licensed rehabber.

Today, Sara runs Little Rascals Wildlife Rescue while working through the process of securing 501(c)(3) nonprofit status. She specializes in small mammals—raccoons, opossums, squirrels, mice, and more—operating from a dedicated rehab room, outdoor enclosures, and an expanding volunteer network.

In the interview, Sara walks us through the intake process, challenges of caring for wildlife, the importance of releasing animals back into their home region, and the many misconceptions people have about raccoons and rabies. She also shares what NOT to do when you find wildlife (such as feeding babies), explains safe rescue practices, and highlights the ecological value of animals many consider “nuisances.”

Little Rascals Wildlife Rescue is quickly becoming an essential resource for Montcalm County and surrounding areas. As the organization grows, Sara hopes to expand her licensing to help additional species and continue working with local vets, communities, and other rescue centers.

The Discover Montcalm Podcast thanks West Michigan Technology & Design Solutions, WGLM106.3 FM, DW Video, and Business Growth Engine for their support.

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