Hi, I’m Ellie. I moved to Lake Atitlán, Guatemala, to heal—but it quickly became clear that I wasn’t the only one who needed saving.

Every day, I see dogs suffering on the streets—skin and bones, limping, hiding in the shadows, or being chased away. Some are friendly and desperate for love. Others are too weak to lift their heads. Most have never known safety, warmth, or even enough food to get through the day.

I’ve taken in as many as I can. Right now, I’m sheltering several strays in a space that isn’t even mine. I feed them, care for them, try to keep them warm and safe—but I’m at capacity, and the need is endless. My heart breaks every time I have to walk past another one I can’t help.

I know I can do more. But I can’t do it alone.