Lehigh Acres girl asks for donations to dog rescue instead of presents for birthday

LEHIGH ACRES, Fla. – An 8-year-old girl in Lehigh Acres doesn’t want cake or presents for her 9th birthday, instead she wants people to donate to a local dog rescue.

Ellie Durant’s birthday isn’t until Feb. 20, but she’s already gotten a box full of dog food and toys– some from big corporations, others from people she doesn’t even know, and of course, some from her friends and family.

“For a short period we were getting boxes at our door every day,” Ellie said.

She has the energy of a puppy and the loyalty of a man’s best friend.

“When I grow up, I’ve always wanted to help animals and I still do.”

As it turns out, she couldn’t even wait until her 9th birthday to start helping animals. Ellie says she wants all of the donations to go Love is Fur Ever Dog Rescue, which was started by a teacher at her school.

“It’s amazing. I mean I can’t even begin to think how blessed I am to have someone from the next generation making such a huge difference,” said Vicki Frazier, who runs Love is Fur Ever Dog Rescue.

“We didn’t think we were going to get much in and well, we have a whole box full and we probably need another box soon,” Ellie said.

Her parents couldn’t be more proud.

“This comes from her heart. This is her thing,” her mother, Jess Durant, said.

“People that she doesn’t even know are believing her and that’s a huge thing for my heart,” Frazier said.

Her parents say they’re glad something like this is what Ellie is passionate about and are excited for the life lessons she’s learning from it.

“Then another person does it and another person does it and it spreads throughout the world,” said Ellie.

Ellie’s goal is to raise $1,000 by her birthday. If you would like to help, click this link.