Guardians of the Green Mile

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Guardians of the Green Mile Guardians of the Green Mile (est. 2013) is a 100% volunteer and foster based 501c3 non-profit rescue with foster homes across NWI. Once the dog (or cat, etc.)
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We primarily rescue dogs at risk of euthanasia or harm due to injury, abuse, abandonment, and neglect. Guardians of the Green Mile, Inc. is a group of individuals that have come together to save the lives of animals dumped or found as strays from area shelters. We still genuinely believe that it takes a village to save a life. Through donations, adoption fees, and fundraisers, we pay for all vetting for the pet through Coyne Animal Hospital in Crown Point, Indiana. And Hero Pet in Westville, "Full vetting" includes all vaccines, heartworm test (and treatment if needed), a fecal (and treatment if needed), spay or neuter, microchip, Veterinarian examination, dental (if needed), and any other medical/grooming care the animal might need. is completely vetted, we will place them into an approved foster home to get them healed and ready to be adopted. I Don’t Want To Foster, I Want To Adopt. Can I Adopt the Dog Directly Through the Guardians? YES. Please fill out and submit your application. Here is the link to our Adoption or Foster Application http://jotform.us/form/43196636952162

If you are interested in fostering or adopting a Guardian pet, we require Reference checks. Vet Checks: All Animals must be spayed and neutered. Employment Checks, and Home Checks, Renters will have to provide a copy of their lease. Applicants must be 21 or older to apply. To make a Donation
https://gotgm.networkforgood.com/projects/184887-guardians-of-the-green-mile-general-giving-monthly

Gotgm Board Members. Sherri Christopher, Founder / Executive Director. Traci Haelfrisch, Treasure. Beth Kowalski. Secretary. Elizabeth Smejkal, Co- Director

Lana Wuest
Sara Burrell ( Founding Member)

Our Partners at Coyne Veterinary Center Crown Point are looking for team members.
10/22/2026

Our Partners at Coyne Veterinary Center Crown Point are looking for team members.

🚨WE’RE HIRING! 🚨

Are you passionate about animals and looking to join a team that shares your love for veterinary medicine? 🩺🐢🐱 We’re looking for experienced Veterinary Technicians, Veterinary Assistants, and Receptionists to join our team!

If you’re dedicated, compassionate, and ready to make a difference in the lives of pets and their families, we’d love to hear from you! ❀️

πŸ“© Think you’re the right fit? Send your resume to: [email protected] to apply!

πŸ’œπŸΎ MISS KEEGAN β€” RUMOR FOR THE WIN!! πŸ†πŸ’œWell, well, WELL!The Food Goddess Air BnB & Health Retreat has officially started...
10/22/2026

πŸ’œπŸΎ MISS KEEGAN β€” RUMOR FOR THE WIN!! πŸ†πŸ’œ

Well, well, WELL!

The Food Goddess Air BnB & Health Retreat has officially started its WELCOME COMMITTEE PROGRAM! 🀣

And the WINNER of the first meet-and-greet?

RUMOR!! πŸŽ‰πŸΎ

But first, let's talk about something that isn't quite so happy.

Our little Miss Keegan did NOT have a very good first night in foster care. πŸ’”

She was anxious. Very anxious.

She clearly does not like being separated from everyone in her special recovery enclosure.

And while we cannot know exactly what memories that brings back, we can't help but wonder if confinement is something she associates with her heartbreaking past.

Remember, this little girl arrived weighing only 18.5 pounds, with a Body Condition Score of 1 out of 9.

She was severely emaciated, with urine scalding, pressure sores, and skin infections.

SHE WAS LIVING IN CONDITIONS NO ANIMAL SHOULD EVER HAVE TO ENDURE.

And here's something else we are discovering.

MISS KEEGAN IS NOT POTTY TRAINED.

But think about that for a moment.

How do you teach a dog that there is a proper place to go potty when she may never have had the opportunity to learn?

Dogs naturally prefer to keep their sleeping and eating areas separate from where they eliminate, when they have the opportunity.

Keegan didn't arrive knowing those rules.

And we certainly aren't going to punish her for something she hasn't been taught.

WE WILL TEACH HER. WITH PATIENCE. LOVE. AND CONSISTENCY.

We also noticed that having food or something to occupy her seems to help settle some of her anxiety.

And honestly, after everything her body has endured, we can understand why food might be such an important source of comfort.

But TODAY?

TODAY WAS A BETTER DAY! πŸ’œ

Our girl got to enjoy some sunshine and fresh air!

And the Food Goddess decided it was time for some carefully supervised introductions to the resident pack.

Now, Lana and I had already discussed who might take over Big Mama Deja's old responsibilities.

Because let's remember…

BIG MAMA WAS THE DIRECTOR OF FOSTER RELATIONS, HEAD OF SECURITY, AND CHIEF FAFO OFFICER! 🀣🀣

She welcomed every new foster with love.

But if ANYONE got out of line?

OH, THAT LOOK! πŸ‘€

One glance and EVERYBODY knew to straighten up!

Well, apparently Rumor received the memo from Big Mama!

RUMOR FOR THE WIN! πŸ†πŸ’œ

The first official meet-and-greet went to Rumor!

And then came ETHAN!

Look at these pictures!

Our fragile little girl is beginning to experience something that we hope will become a very important part of her recovery.

BEING PART OF A PACK.

And YES…

Even SIR GABRIEL got to say hello!

Now, Gabriel, we LOVE YOU.

But you are a BIG BOY with a LOT of enthusiasm! 🀣

His little nubby tail was wagging so hard that we were afraid he might accidentally knock Keegan right off her feet!

So his introduction was very carefully supervised.

SIR GABRIEL, PLEASE REMEMBER… WE ARE WELCOMING A DELICATE LITTLE LADY. NOT PLAYING BUMPER CARS! πŸ˜‚

And somewhere over that Rainbow Bridge, Big Mama Deja is probably giving him THAT LOOK.

FAFO, GABRIEL. FAFO! πŸ€£πŸ’œ

All joking aside, Keegan is still incredibly fragile.

Lana says that when the sunshine hits her little body, her skin looks almost paper-thin.

You can see every rib, every vertebra, every reminder of the terrible condition she arrived in.

And it breaks our hearts.

BUT LOOK AT WHAT ELSE YOU SEE IN THESE PICTURES.

A little dog standing in the sunshine.

Meeting new friends.

Exploring a yard.

Walking alongside other dogs.

Experiencing things that should have always been part of her life.

And THIS is why we believe having the right foster pack can make such a difference.

We are hopeful that as Keegan becomes comfortable with her new friends, their calm behavior and established routines will help her gain confidence.

She can watch them.

Learn from them.

And eventually begin to understand that outside is where we go potty, inside is where we rest, and FOOD WILL ALWAYS COME AGAIN.

There will be accidents.

There will be anxious nights.

There may be setbacks.

AND THAT IS OKAY.

Healing isn't a straight line.

Some days will be harder than others.

But every positive experience is another step toward the life she deserves.

We aren't expecting miracles overnight.

We are simply giving her the time, medical care, nutrition, patience, and love she needs.

MIND. BODY. AND SOUL. πŸ’œ

And to our FOOD GODDESS, Lana…

THANK YOU.

Thank you for understanding that Keegan needs so much more than a warm bed and a bowl of food.

She needs someone willing to help her learn that this world can be a safe place.

Someone who understands that her accidents aren't misbehavior.

That her anxiety isn't an inconvenience.

And that underneath those protruding bones is a beautiful little soul just waiting to blossom.

To everyone who has donated, shared Keegan's story, and prayed for our girl, THANK YOU.

Your kindness is helping give her the chance to heal.

WELCOME TO THE PACK, MISS KEEGAN!

And Rumor?

BIG MAMA DEJA WOULD BE PROUD OF YOU! πŸ’œπŸΎ

Now, Sir Gabriel…

Please keep your nubby tail under control! 🀣

πŸ’œ Miss Keegan
Guardians of the Green Mile

Help support Keegan's medical care and recovery:
https://gotgm.networkforgood.com

Once a Guardian… Always a Guardian. πŸ’œ

10/21/2026

πŸ’œπŸΎ MISS KEEGAN HAS OFFICIALLY CHECKED INTO THE FOOD GODDESS AIR BnB & HEALTH RETREAT! πŸ‘πŸ’œ

And let me tell you, this little girl has NO IDEA what she just signed up for! 🀣

Our sweet Miss Keegan has arrived at Foster Mom Lana's house, where the accommodations include soft beds, fluffy blankets, homemade meals, personalized medical attention, and a whole lot of LOVE!

THE FOOD GODDESS HAS ENTERED THE CHAT! πŸ‘©β€πŸ³πŸ’œ

Now, before everyone gets too excited, we still have a very fragile little girl on our hands.

Look at those pictures.

Her poor little body is still nothing but skin and bones. Every rib and vertebra is a reminder of just how much this innocent soul has endured.

But those beautiful eyes?

Those ears standing straight up?

And that little personality beginning to emerge?

THAT IS THE GIRL WE ARE GOING TO FOCUS ON!

Now, checking into the Food Goddess Air BnB comes with a few house rules.

And the FIRST order of business is introducing Miss Keegan to the resident welcoming committee.

This is where things get a little emotional for Lana and me. πŸ’”πŸ’œ

You see, we are both channeling our beloved BIG MAMA DEJA.

Big Mama was ALWAYS the first one to welcome a new foster into the family.

She just knew.

Somehow, she understood that these new arrivals needed a little extra kindness, patience, and reassurance.

She helped them feel like they belonged.

BUT LET'S NOT FORGET ONE VERY IMPORTANT THING ABOUT BIG MAMA! 🀣

Big Mama had RULES.

And if you didn't follow those rules?

SHE HAD THAT FAFO LOOK! πŸ‘€πŸ€£

You know the look.

The one that says…

"GO AHEAD. TRY ME. I DOUBLE DOG DARE YOU!"

She didn't have to say a word.

One LOOK from Big Mama and everybody knew EXACTLY who was running the household!

She was loving. She was nurturing. She welcomed every new foster.

BUT DON'T YOU DARE MESS WITH HER BABIES! πŸ’œ

Oh, how Lana and I wish she could be here to meet Keegan.

But I like to imagine that somewhere over the Rainbow Bridge, Big Mama has already called a mandatory staff meeting.

"LISTEN UP, EVERYBODY! WE HAVE A VERY SPECIAL LITTLE GIRL CHECKING IN! SHE IS FRAGILE. SHE NEEDS LOVE. SHE NEEDS PATIENCE. AND YOU WILL ALL BE ON YOUR BEST BEHAVIOR!"

And then she gives THAT LOOK.

"ANY QUESTIONS?" 🀣🀣

Lana and I are thinking either Rumor or Ethan will have the honor of being the first member of the welcoming committee when Keegan is ready.

And then there's…

SIR GABRIEL! 🀣🀣

Oh, sweet Gabriel.

We love you, buddy.

But you are a BULL IN A CHINA SHOP!

And right now, Miss Keegan is more like a very delicate piece of fine china.

So, Sir Gabriel, you're going to have to wait your turn, big guy!

And somewhere in Heaven, I imagine Big Mama giving Gabriel that FAFO look just for THINKING about getting too rambunctious! πŸ˜‚

We'll take introductions slowly and carefully, because keeping our little girl safe is our FIRST priority.

Now, Miss Keegan has already expressed an opinion about her accommodations.

Apparently, she is NOT thrilled about being in her own special recovery area without company.

"UMMM… EXCUSE ME? I WAS TOLD THIS WAS AN ALL-INCLUSIVE RESORT! WHERE IS MY PERSONAL ATTENDANT?" 🀣

But then the Food Goddess brought out something magical.

A PEANUT BUTTER KONG! πŸ₯œ

Well, WELL, WELL!

Apparently, room service makes everything a little better!

Our little guest settled down and began enjoying her special treat.

And can I tell you something?

After seeing this little girl so terribly emaciated, there is something incredibly beautiful about watching her enjoy a simple pleasure.

A soft blanket.

A toy.

A little peanut butter.

Things so many dogs experience every single day.

Things Keegan should have been enjoying all along.

THIS IS WHAT HEALING LOOKS LIKE.

Not just gaining weight.

Not just treating infections.

But learning that being alone doesn't mean being forgotten.

That food will come again.

That gentle hands bring love.

And that she is FINALLY somewhere she belongs.

We know she has a long road ahead of her. The Food Goddess will be carefully following her veterinary refeeding plan, and there will be plenty of medical follow-ups along the way.

But tonight, Miss Keegan has a warm bed, a full belly, and a foster mom who is already completely in love with her.

And somewhere, I like to think Big Mama Deja would be very proud of her pack. πŸ’œ

WELCOME TO THE GOOD LIFE, MISS KEEGAN!

Your healing journey has officially begun.

MIND. BODY. AND SOUL. πŸ’œπŸΎ

Thank you to everyone who has donated, shared her story, and prayed for our little girl. Your generosity is helping make every step of this journey possible.

We cannot wait for the day when we can share pictures of a healthy, happy Miss Keegan and those little ribs are nothing more than a memory.

And Lana…

If the resort ever has an opening, I'm STILL interested.

Especially if peanut butter room service is included! 🀣

πŸ’œ Miss Keegan
Guardians of the Green Mile

Help support Keegan's continued medical care and recovery:
https://gotgm.networkforgood.com

Once a Guardian… Always a Guardian. πŸ’œ

πŸ’œπŸΎ MISS KEEGAN HAS OFFICIALLY CHECKED INTO THE FOOD GODDESS AIR BnB & HEALTH RETREAT! πŸ‘πŸ’œAnd let me tell you, this little...
10/21/2026

πŸ’œπŸΎ MISS KEEGAN HAS OFFICIALLY CHECKED INTO THE FOOD GODDESS AIR BnB & HEALTH RETREAT! πŸ‘πŸ’œ

And let me tell you, this little girl has NO IDEA what she just signed up for! 🀣

Our sweet Miss Keegan has arrived at Foster Mom Lana's house, where the accommodations include soft beds, fluffy blankets, homemade meals, personalized medical attention, and a whole lot of LOVE!

THE FOOD GODDESS HAS ENTERED THE CHAT! πŸ‘©β€πŸ³πŸ’œ

Now, before everyone gets too excited, we still have a very fragile little girl on our hands.

Look at those pictures.

Her poor little body is still nothing but skin and bones. Every rib and vertebra is a reminder of just how much this innocent soul has endured.

But those beautiful eyes?

Those ears standing straight up?

And that little personality beginning to emerge?

THAT IS THE GIRL WE ARE GOING TO FOCUS ON!

Now, checking into the Food Goddess Air BnB comes with a few house rules.

And the FIRST order of business is introducing Miss Keegan to the resident welcoming committee.

This is where things get a little emotional for Lana and me. πŸ’”πŸ’œ

You see, we are both channeling our beloved BIG MAMA DEJA.

Big Mama was ALWAYS the first one to welcome a new foster into the family.

She just knew.

Somehow, she understood that these new arrivals needed a little extra kindness, patience, and reassurance.

She helped them feel like they belonged.

BUT LET'S NOT FORGET ONE VERY IMPORTANT THING ABOUT BIG MAMA! 🀣

Big Mama had RULES.

And if you didn't follow those rules?

SHE HAD THAT FAFO LOOK! πŸ‘€πŸ€£

You know the look.

The one that says…

"GO AHEAD. TRY ME. I DOUBLE DOG DARE YOU!"

She didn't have to say a word. All of a sudden everyone felt like it was nap time.

One LOOK from Big Mama and everybody knew EXACTLY who was running the household!

She was loving. She was nurturing. She welcomed every new foster.

BUT DON'T YOU DARE MESS WITH HER BABIES! πŸ’œ

Oh, how Lana and I wish she could be here to meet Keegan.

But I like to imagine that somewhere over the Rainbow Bridge, Big Mama has already called a mandatory staff meeting.

"LISTEN UP, EVERYBODY! WE HAVE A VERY SPECIAL LITTLE GIRL CHECKING IN! SHE IS FRAGILE. SHE NEEDS LOVE. SHE NEEDS PATIENCE. AND YOU WILL ALL BE ON YOUR BEST BEHAVIOR!"

And then she gives THAT LOOK.

"ANY QUESTIONS?" 🀣🀣

Lana and I are thinking either Rumor or Ethan will have the honor of being the first member of the welcoming committee when Keegan is ready.

And then there's…

SIR GABRIEL! 🀣🀣

Oh, sweet Gabriel.

We love you, buddy.

But you are a BULL IN A CHINA SHOP!

And right now, Miss Keegan is more like a very delicate piece of fine china.

So, Sir Gabriel, you're going to have to wait your turn, big guy!

And somewhere in Heaven, I imagine Big Mama giving Gabriel that FAFO look just for THINKING about getting too rambunctious! πŸ˜‚

We'll take introductions slowly and carefully, because keeping our little girl safe is our FIRST priority.

Now, Miss Keegan has already expressed an opinion about her accommodations.

Apparently, she is NOT thrilled about being in her own special recovery area without company.

"UMMM… EXCUSE ME? I WAS TOLD THIS WAS AN ALL-INCLUSIVE RESORT! WHERE IS MY PERSONAL ATTENDANT?" 🀣

But then the Food Goddess brought out something magical.

A PEANUT BUTTER KONG! πŸ₯œ

Well, WELL, WELL!

Apparently, room service makes everything a little better!

Our little guest settled down and began enjoying her special treat.

And can I tell you something?

After seeing this little girl so terribly emaciated, there is something incredibly beautiful about watching her enjoy a simple pleasure.

A soft blanket.

A toy.

A little peanut butter.

Things so many dogs experience every single day.

Things Keegan should have been enjoying all along.

THIS IS WHAT HEALING LOOKS LIKE.

Not just gaining weight.

Not just treating infections.

But learning that being alone doesn't mean being forgotten.

That food will come again.

That gentle hands bring love.

And that she is FINALLY somewhere she belongs.

We know she has a long road ahead of her. The Food Goddess will be carefully following her veterinary refeeding plan, and there will be plenty of medical follow-ups along the way.

But tonight, Miss Keegan has a warm bed, a full belly, and a foster mom who is already completely in love with her.

And somewhere, I like to think Big Mama Deja would be very proud of her pack. πŸ’œ

WELCOME TO THE GOOD LIFE, MISS KEEGAN!

Your healing journey has officially begun.

MIND. BODY. AND SOUL. πŸ’œπŸΎ

Thank you to everyone who has donated, shared her story, and prayed for our little girl. Your generosity is helping make every step of this journey possible.

We cannot wait for the day when we can share pictures of a healthy, happy Miss Keegan and those little ribs are nothing more than a memory.

And Lana…

If the resort ever has an opening, I'm STILL interested.

Especially if peanut butter room service is included! 🀣

πŸ’œ Miss Keegan
Guardians of the Green Mile

Help support Keegan's continued medical care and recovery:
https://gotgm.networkforgood.com

Once a Guardian… Always a Guardian. πŸ’œ

πŸ’œπŸΎ MISS KEEGAN HAS LEFT THE BUILDING!! πŸΎπŸ’œGUESS WHAT THIS PICTURE MEANS?!If you guessed that Miss Keegan is riding SH***U...
10/21/2026

πŸ’œπŸΎ MISS KEEGAN HAS LEFT THE BUILDING!! πŸΎπŸ’œ

GUESS WHAT THIS PICTURE MEANS?!

If you guessed that Miss Keegan is riding SH***UN with our very own FOOD GODDESS, Foster Mom Lana…

YOU WOULD BE 100% CORRECT!! πŸŽ‰πŸ’œ

OUR LITTLE GIRL IS HEADED HOME!!

After days of hospitalization, IV fluids, medications, bloodwork, carefully monitored meals, and LOTS AND LOTS OF LOVE from the wonderful team at Coyne Veterinary Center, our sweet Keegan has been released into foster care!

And who better to help this little girl continue her journey than our very own FOOD GODDESS?!

But FIRST…

We have a little PSA for everyone transporting their four-legged passengers.

ALWAYS WALK YOUR PASSENGER BEFORE DEPARTURE! πŸ’©πŸ€£

Because apparently Miss Keegan had a little unfinished business.

And somewhere along the ride, a mysterious pile of P**P appeared in the back seat!

Now, the funniest part?

Apparently, Keegan looked at Lana like…

"WHAT THE HELL?! WHO PUT P**P IN THIS CAR?! THAT IS ABSOLUTELY DISGUSTING!" πŸ˜³πŸ’©

We know who did it, Keegan.

YOU know who did it.

But because you've had a really rough week, sweetheart, we're going to play along.

SOME PEOPLE JUST HAVE NO RESPECT FOR YOUR PERSONAL CHAUFFEUR SERVICE! 🀣🀣

Now, all kidding aside…

Lana was in tears.

Not because of the p**p. LOL.

But because when you see this little girl in person, it absolutely breaks your heart.

She is SOOOOO SMALL.

Skin and bones.

Every rib. Every vertebra. Every little bone a reminder of what her body has endured.

And despite it all?

SHE IS THE SWEETEST LITTLE GIRL. πŸ’œ

She just wants to be loved.

And Lana, well, she has enough love to give this little girl for a lifetime.

We know there is still a long road ahead.

Keegan is nowhere near a healthy weight. Her body needs time, carefully monitored nutrition, and continued medical attention.

But we also know that Lana is already preparing homemade bone broth and has a roast ready!

Listen, people.

I AM STILL WAITING FOR MY APPLICATION TO BE APPROVED TO LIVE WITH THE FOOD GODDESS!

Apparently, Keegan got accepted before me! 🀣

But oh, sweet girl…

You have absolutely NO IDEA what's waiting for you.

Soft beds.

Warm blankets.

A family who will celebrate every little pound you safely gain.

A foster mom who will make sure your belly is never forgotten.

And a whole pack to help teach you what it means to be part of a family.

YOU ARE GOING TO BE LOVED SO HARD, LITTLE GIRL. πŸ’œ

To Dr. Turey and the ENTIRE team at Coyne Veterinary Center, we cannot thank you enough.

You didn't just treat her medical conditions.

You held her. You loved her. You gave her kisses. You showed her kindness.

You helped give this beautiful little soul a chance to start over.

To Waukegan Animal Control, WAGS, our transporters, and everyone who helped get Keegan to this moment, THANK YOU.

And to every single person who has donated, shared her story, or prayed for her healing…

LOOK WHAT YOUR KINDNESS HAS HELPED MAKE POSSIBLE!

This isn't the end of Keegan's rescue story.

Not even close.

THIS IS THE BEGINNING OF HER HEALING.

Mind. Body. And Soul.

And although our hearts are still aching from losing our little Felipe, today we are reminded why we keep going.

Because another little life is depending on us.

WELCOME HOME, MISS KEEGAN. πŸ’œ

We promise, sweetheart.

One day, when we look at you, we won't be counting your ribs.

We'll be counting your happy memories.

And Lana?

You might want to crack a window on that ride home! πŸ’©πŸ€£

πŸ’œπŸΎ Miss Keegan
Guardians of the Green Mile

Please help us continue her medical care and recovery:
https://gotgm.networkforgood.com

Once a Guardian… Always a Guardian. πŸ’œ

πŸ’œπŸΎ MISS KEEGAN β€” GOOD NEWS, A LITTLE MISCHIEF & A WHOLE LOT OF LOVE! πŸ’œFirst, we want to apologize for the delay in updat...
10/21/2026

πŸ’œπŸΎ MISS KEEGAN β€” GOOD NEWS, A LITTLE MISCHIEF & A WHOLE LOT OF LOVE! πŸ’œ

First, we want to apologize for the delay in updating everyone on our sweet Miss Keegan.

As many of you know, our little Felipe the Fighter crossed the Rainbow Bridge. πŸ’”

Our hearts are broken. Our team is grieving. And sometimes, even those of us who have been doing rescue for years need a moment to collect the pieces of our hearts.

BUT RESCUE DOESN'T STOP.

There is always another innocent soul depending on us. Another life that matters just as much. Another little heartbeat that needs someone to fight for them.

And right now, that little heartbeat belongs to MISS KEEGAN! πŸ’œ

So let's share some GOOD NEWS!

🐾 F***L TEST β€” NEGATIVE!

YES! You read that correctly!

We were just as surprised as you probably are! Considering the condition this poor little girl arrived in, we were definitely expecting some unwelcome little passengers.

But NOPE! No intestinal parasites detected!

🐾 HEARTWORM β€” NEGATIVE!

Another HUGE blessing!

🐾 EATING AND DRINKING β€” LIKE A CHAMP!

Our girl continues to tolerate her carefully monitored meals and is being such a GOOD GIRL!

🐾 MICROCHIPPED β€” CHECK!

Our little girl officially has her identification!

🐾 IV REMOVAL β€” WELL… πŸ˜‚

Apparently, Miss Keegan has decided she would like to participate in her own medical care.

She was SO helpful that she decided to assist the veterinary staff by removing her own IV!

THANK YOU, KEEGAN! 🀣

We are pretty sure the Coyne team appreciated her enthusiasm. Maybe not her medical expertise, but definitely her enthusiasm!

🐾 SPA DAY IS COMING!

The wonderful grooming team has penciled her in for another much-needed bath. They will be working on removing some of the urine staining from her beautiful white fur.

It's going to take time to erase the physical reminders of what this poor little girl has endured.

But every day, we are getting a little closer.

Now, can we talk about these PICTURES?! 😍

Look at those beautiful eyes!

Look at her standing up, asking for attention!

Look at her snuggled into that comfy bed!

And most importantly, LOOK AT THE LOVE SHE IS RECEIVING!

IT'S VETERINARY TECHNICIAN WEEK! πŸ’œπŸΎ

And I cannot think of a better way to celebrate than recognizing the amazing team at Coyne Veterinary Center in Crown Point.

Our little Keegan is getting some EXTRA SPECIAL attention from the staff.

And McClaryn made absolutely certain she wasn't missing out on those hugs! πŸ’œ

THANK YOU to Dr. Turey, the veterinary technicians, assistants, groomers, and everyone at Coyne who is treating our little girl like she is their very own.

You aren't simply administering medications and monitoring her recovery.

YOU ARE TEACHING HER THAT HUMAN HANDS CAN BE KIND.

And that brings me to something I have never quite been able to understand, even after all these years in rescue.

How can a beautiful, innocent soul be so terribly neglected by humans…

And STILL find it in their heart to trust us?

To wag their tail?

To give kisses?

To ask for hugs?

THE CAPACITY OF A DOG TO LOVE AND FORGIVE IS SOMETHING HUMANS COULD LEARN A LOT FROM.

Sadly, not every animal is able to recover emotionally from what they have endured.

Some are so frightened, so defeated, that they struggle to trust again.

And that is why we celebrate every little victory.

Every wag of Keegan's tail.

Every kiss.

Every time she reaches out for another hug.

Because we aren't just healing her body.

WE ARE HEALING HER MIND, BODY, AND SOUL. πŸ’œ

We are hoping our little girl will be medically cleared to leave the hospital soon.

And word on the street is that our very own FOOD GODDESS, Foster Mom Lana, is already preparing for her arrival!

Apparently, there is homemade bone broth and a ROAST involved!

A ROAST, PEOPLE! πŸ–πŸ€£

Listen, Lana…

If you're accepting applications for new fosters, I would like to submit mine.

I promise I am housebroken, I can feed myself, and I don't require a crate.

LOVE, SHERRI. πŸ˜‚πŸ˜‚

All kidding aside, we couldn't ask for a better place for Keegan to continue her recovery.

Lana and her pack will help teach this sweet girl what being part of a loving family is all about.

To Waukegan Animals Getting Saved (WAGS), everyone who donated to their GoFundMe, and everyone who has donated directly to the Guardians…

THANK YOU FROM THE BOTTOM OF OUR HEARTS!

And to everyone who has shared her story, sent prayers, or simply taken a moment to care about a little dog you have never met…

YOU ARE PART OF HER VILLAGE.

We still have a long road ahead.

But when I look at these new pictures, I don't just see an emaciated dog anymore.

I see a little girl beginning to enjoy being loved.

And THAT is what makes all the heartbreak, sleepless nights, and tears worth it.

KEEP GOING, MISS KEEGAN.

You've got an entire village cheering you on.

And somewhere over that Rainbow Bridge, I like to imagine a little fighter named Felipe is cheering for you, too. πŸ’œπŸŒˆ

Miss Keegan
Guardians of the Green Mile

πŸ’œ Help us continue her medical care and recovery:
https://gotgm.networkforgood.com

Once a Guardian… Always a Guardian. πŸ’œ

πŸ’”πŸŒˆ FELIPE THE FIGHTER β€” RUN, SWEET BOY, RUN. πŸŒˆπŸ’”Our hearts are shattered.We had a devastating morning, and there is no ea...
10/20/2026

πŸ’”πŸŒˆ FELIPE THE FIGHTER β€” RUN, SWEET BOY, RUN. πŸŒˆπŸ’”

Our hearts are shattered.

We had a devastating morning, and there is no easy way to share this news with all of you who have fallen so deeply in love with our little Fighter.

This morning, Felipe began having seizures.

With the help of Dr. Szalay, we did everything we could to help our precious boy. Despite medication being administered, his seizures continued, lasting several minutes at a time.

And then came the decision that no one in rescue, no foster parent, and no one who loves an animal ever wants to make.

We had to love him enough to let him go. πŸ’”

Our little Felipe the Fighter crossed the Rainbow Bridge this morning.

As you can imagine, his HUMom is absolutely devastated. She loved that little boy with every ounce of her being. She carried him, comforted him, took him to therapy, celebrated every tiny accomplishment, and believed in him every single day.

Our entire Guardians team is heartbroken.

And now, as you read this, we know many of you are crying too.

For that, we are so sorry.

But we wanted you to know. You loved him too. You cheered for him. You prayed for him. You laughed at his little Chihuahua attitude and celebrated every single victory.

You were all part of his fight.

And now, we want you to imagine something with us. 🌈

Imagine our little Felipe arriving at the Rainbow Bridge.

But this time, something was different.

For the very first time, his little legs worked perfectly.

He stood up.

He took a step.

Then another.

And suddenly...

HE RAN. 🐾❀️

Oh, how he ran!

Those tiny little legs carried him faster than he ever dreamed possible. No more therapy. No more struggling. No more wondering why his little body wouldn't cooperate.

Just sunshine, green grass, and the freedom to RUN.

But our little Fighter had one more very important job to do.

You see, just beyond the Rainbow Bridge are the Fields of the Forgotten, where the souls of abandoned, neglected, and unloved animals wait.

The ones who never knew the warmth of a loving home.

The ones who never had a HUMom to pick them up.

The ones who left this world believing nobody loved them.

And suddenly, they heard the tiniest voice calling out as loud as he could.

"HEY, FRENS!!!" 🐾

"IT'S ME! FELIPE THE FIGHTER!"

"COME ON, FRENS! FOLLOW ME!"

"I WAS GIVEN A VERY IMPORTANT ASSIGNMENT!"

"YOU DON'T HAVE TO WAIT HERE ANYMORE!"

And those forgotten souls looked at this tiny Chihuahua, wondering how someone so small could possibly help them all.

But Felipe had brought something very special with him.

You see, when Felipe crossed the Bridge, he took a little piece of each of our hearts.

His HUMom's heart.

Our Guardians team's hearts.

And a little piece of the hearts of every single person who loved him, prayed for him, and cheered him on.

And when he arrived, all those little pieces became something extraordinary.

Enough love to share with every forgotten soul waiting in those fields. ❀️

And for the very first time, those souls felt what it meant to be loved.

Felipe looked back at them, wiggled his little Chihuahua butt, and shouted...

"COME ON, FRENS! WE'RE ALL GOING HOME!" 🌈

And off he ran.

Leading an entire field of once-forgotten souls across the Rainbow Bridge.

Not one left behind.

Because that's what Guardians do.

We don't leave anyone behind.

Our precious little Felipe.

You came into our lives with a broken little body but the biggest fighting spirit.

You taught us that victories aren't always measured in miles. Sometimes they're measured in inches. A tiny movement. A little wiggle. The determination to climb onto your favorite stuffed animal all by yourself.

You made us laugh when our hearts were heavy.

You reminded us why we fight so hard.

And although we desperately wanted more time with you, we are forever grateful that you knew love.

Real love.

The kind of love that carries you when your legs cannot.

You fought so hard, little man.

You don't have to fight anymore.

Go find the warmest patch of sunshine. Chase Auntie Sassy Sally's toys in your dreams. Snuggle with your frens. And when you get tired, we know there will be someone waiting to pick you up.

Run, sweet boy.

RUN FREE.

And please, little Fighter, save a little sunshine for the rest of us. β˜€οΈπŸ’”

Once a Guardian, Always a Guardian.

Until we meet again, our precious little Felipe. 🌈🐾

Felipe the Fighter
Guardians of the Green Mile

πŸ’œ In honor of Felipe and the countless animals who still need us, please consider helping our medical fund so we can continue fighting for those who cannot fight for themselves.

https://gotgm.networkforgood.com

πŸ’œπŸΎ MISS KEEGAN β€” MONDAY MEDICAL UPDATE!ONE DAY AT A TIME. ONE MEAL AT A TIME. ONE LITTLE VICTORY AT A TIME. πŸ’œOur beautif...
10/20/2026

πŸ’œπŸΎ MISS KEEGAN β€” MONDAY MEDICAL UPDATE!

ONE DAY AT A TIME. ONE MEAL AT A TIME. ONE LITTLE VICTORY AT A TIME. πŸ’œ

Our beautiful Miss Keegan is still receiving medical care at Coyne Veterinary Center in Crown Point, Indiana.

And today, we have some encouraging news to share!

But first, let's talk about her bloodwork.

Our little girl arrived weighing just 18.5 pounds, with a Body Condition Score of 1 out of 9.

For those unfamiliar with that scoring system, 1 is the LOWEST possible score.

SHE IS SEVERELY EMACIATED.

Her bloodwork shows abnormalities consistent with her heartbreaking condition.

πŸ’” ANEMIA. Her red blood cell levels are low.

πŸ’” LOW CHOLESTEROL. Her poor little body has almost no fat reserves left.

πŸ’” ELEVATED WHITE BLOOD CELLS. This can indicate inflammation or infection, including the skin infections she is currently battling.

And I want everyone to remember something.

THIS DID NOT HAPPEN OVERNIGHT.

A dog does not reach a Body Condition Score of 1 out of 9 because someone forgot to feed her yesterday.

A dog does not become this emaciated from missing a few meals.

This is the result of prolonged deprivation.

And THAT is the part that makes me so incredibly ANGRY.

There is absolutely NO excuse for allowing an innocent animal to deteriorate to this condition.

SHE WAS STARVING.

Now, let's talk about the GOOD NEWS! πŸ’œ

πŸŽ‰ MISS KEEGAN IS HEARTWORM NEGATIVE!! πŸŽ‰

HALLELUJAH!

With everything this little girl is already fighting, we are incredibly thankful that heartworm disease is NOT another battle she has to face!

And the good news doesn't stop there!

Dr. Turey sent us another medical update this morning.

🐾 SHE IS EATING AND DRINKING WELL!

🐾 Her stool is formed and normal!

🐾 No vomiting!

🐾 Her skin is slowly improving!

🐾 She appears to be better hydrated!

🐾 And our little girl weighed in at 19 POUNDS THIS MORNING!

Now, before everyone starts celebrating that half pound, remember that some of that increase may be from correcting her dehydration.

But it is encouraging!

Her carefully monitored refeeding plan appears to be working, and that is exactly what we want.

We also submitted a f***l sample this morning and are waiting for those results.

With severe starvation, you cannot simply give a dog an endless bowl of food and expect everything to be okay.

Her little body needs time to adjust. Her organs and digestive system need careful monitoring.

SLOW AND STEADY, SWEET GIRL. WE ARE NOT GOING TO RUSH YOU.

And can we talk about something else?

Despite the blood draws, medications, examinations, and everything she has endured…

Dr. Turey says Keegan continues to be the SWEETEST little girl.

ALL SHE WANTS IS SOMEONE TO LOVE ON HER. πŸ˜­πŸ’œ

Imagine that.

Her body is literally skin and bones, but she still has a heart overflowing with love.

She doesn't know about all the people following her story.

She doesn't know about the donations coming in.

She doesn't know how many people have cried looking at her pictures.

She doesn't know how many complete strangers are praying for her.

BUT SHE KNOWS WHEN SOMEONE TOUCHES HER WITH KINDNESS.

And right now, that is everything.

Our FOOD GODDESS Foster Mom Lana and her pack are waiting for their little girl when she is medically ready.

And when that day comes, the next chapter of healing begins.

Because we aren't just trying to put weight on Keegan.

We want to help heal her…

MIND. BODY. AND SOUL. πŸ’œ

To Dr. Turey and the entire staff at Coyne Veterinary Center, THANK YOU for treating our little girl with the love, dignity, and compassion she deserves.

To WAGS and everyone who has donated to their GoFundMe, THANK YOU!

And to everyone who has donated directly to the Guardians, shared her story, or whispered a little prayer…

YOU ARE HELPING SAVE HER LIFE.

Please keep those prayers coming. We still have a long way to go.

But today?

SHE IS HEARTWORM NEGATIVE. SHE IS EATING. SHE IS DRINKING. AND THAT LITTLE TAIL IS STILL WAGGING! πŸ’œ

And those, my friends, are victories worth celebrating!

MISS KEEGAN, YOU KEEP FIGHTING, SWEETHEART.

We've got the rest. πŸ’œπŸΎ

Miss Keegan
Guardians of the Green Mile

πŸ’œ Please help us continue her medical care:
https://gotgm.networkforgood.com

Once a Guardian… Always a Guardian. πŸ’œ

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Portage, IN
46368

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