Gateway Pet Guardians

Gateway Pet Guardians was established in 2004 through the collaborative efforts of five dedicated women passionate about animal rescue, although our story began a decade earlier. In 1995, P.J. Hightower, a devoted animal lover, observed numerous stray dogs roaming the streets of East St. Louis during a drive. Rather than expressing frustration and moving on, P.J. took action. From that day forward, she made it her mission to help these animals. Nearly every day for the next ten years, P.J. traveled from her home in St. Louis, carrying bags of dog food to feed the strays she encountered. Whenever possible, she rescued them, took them to the veterinarian, and sought loving homes, all at her own expense. In 2004, four women who had become familiar with P.J.'s work and shared her love for animals decided to establish a fundraising organization. Their goal was to gather donations to rescue even more stray dogs and cats from the dangers of street life, while also maximizing the impact of their contributions. Thus, Gateway Pet Guardians was born. Over the past six years, the organization has significantly evolved from its humble beginnings. With the support of volunteers and an administrator, Gateway Pet Guardians has been able to raise sufficient funds each year to file a tax return. P.J. now distributes approximately 1,000 pounds of dog food each month and the organization rescues over 100 dogs and cats annually. We have transitioned from a small initiative to a virtual animal shelter, managed by our first Executive Director and supported by numerous dedicated volunteers. Gateway Pet Guardians has also produced an award-winning documentary and is working towards the ambitious goal of constructing a physical animal shelter, which will include a low-cost spay/neuter clinic and education center in East St. Louis.