Passion for Healthy Pets Marches On
When Kathy Hyland’s Boston Terrier, Lucy, fell ill in 2013, she couldn’t find a cure. That difficult experience inspired her to create Pets Naturally, Northern Michigan’s only holistic pet supply store dedicated to improving pet health through natural nutrition and products.
Venture North Funding and Development, a nonprofit with a social mission of helping small businesses and communities prosper, provided initial capital for the company’s growth.
Twelve years later, Kathy’s daughter, Jessica Follett, has officially taken the reins of the growing business, now employing 20 team members and serving thousands of devoted customers who seek holistic, natural solutions for their pets.
“We turned our passion for pets into a lifelong business that Jessica will now take to the next level,” said Hyland. “We’ve grown from a small South Airport Road shop into a thriving operation just down the road. Our team of 20 now manages retail, and bakery operations, all driven by a commitment to pets’ well-being.”
The seemingly endless natural pet food selection, all free from animal by-products and artificial ingredients — A team that transitions well together…Pets Naturally founder, Kathy Hyland, General Manager, Andrea Margelis and new owner, Jessica Follett — Just a sampling of the vast assortment of wellness products available, along with expert guidance on those that might best address your pet’s particular needs.
Pets Naturally offers complete nutrition and wellness solutions for pets, from natural foods and supplements to eco-friendly toys and grooming products. The store’s beloved Dog Bakery produces fresh, small-batch treats, including seasonal favorites, birthday goodies, and custom cakes which are now shipped nationwide through its online storefront.
There’s also is a Pets Naturally franchise in Grand Rapids located on 28th Street near Cascade in the D & W Plaza.
Follett brings a diverse background to her new role. “After earning my MBA, I spent several years in the ad-tech industry in New York City working with major brands,” she said. “My career and travels eventually brought me home to Traverse City — where my passion for pets, wellness, and community truly belong.”
Jessica’s leadership emphasizes collaboration, growth, and purpose. “I’m focused on listening and understanding what makes our people, processes, and products successful,” Follett said. “My goal is to support our team, strengthen our community ties, and grow the business in a way that honors what my mom built.”
Longtime General Manager Andrea Margelis, a 12-year company veteran, is optimistic about the transition. “Jessica’s background in digital media and marketing will help us grow, especially the online bakery,” Margelis said. “We are excited for her new perspectives and ideas that will continue to grow our focus on customer education and helping pets live their best, healthiest lives.”
As Hyland moves toward retirement, she looks forward to family time with her five children and six grandchildren. “We’re lucky that Jessica is at a point in her life where she can bring new energy and experience to Pets Naturally,” Hyland said. “She’s ready to take it to new heights.”
Jessica adds with a smile: “I’m honored to carry on the legacy my mom started — and to continue it with my own Boston Terrier, a rescue who also happens to be named Lucy. What could be more fitting?”
For media inquiries:
Contact: Tim Ervin - Ph: 231-794-0089 - Email: timervinassoc@gmail.com
For a .pdf version of this story, click here.