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90 years old, built a sanctuary….and loves hard work and beans every morning!

a couple of brown horses standing next to each other
Photo by Vaiva Ivanovaite on Unsplash

I don’t know about you, but, if I’m blessed to make it to the age of 90 and in good health…that would be amazing! 

From Sussex, England, this story is about 90 year old Barby Keel.  For the past 55 years, she’s dedicated her life to rescuing animals in need.  That’s about 10,000 animals she’s rescued from neglect, abuse, abandonment.  She’s created the “Barby Keel Sanctuary”. 

It all started with a simple favour in the ’70s. She was taking care of a soldier’s dog while he was stationed in Ireland.  Her sanctuary now takes up 12 acres. Right now, it’s home to almost 600 animals. AND, not just cats and dogs.  You’ll find horses, chickens and even pigs!  Barby Keel spent the first 20 years running it on her own. But, it got so big, she needed help.  HER ENTIRE TEAM are volunteers.  She even uses her own pension to buy pet food in bulk. 

She was asked what her secret is to staying strong?  “Hard work and a breakfast of beans every morning”!

  • Danny Foresta was born and raised in Thunder Bay. He's worked in radio for over 30 years. Has spent the last 20 years in Morning Radio. Joined Acadia Broadcasting in 2021.  He hosts "Mornings In The Bay" on 99.9 The Bay.
    He enjoys all aspects of the radio industry. Danny is married to Lori, and has a son, Joseph in University.

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8:00 am, Jun 10, 2026
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