A Beagle’s Road to Healing and Home

On December 18, a small beagle was found lying motionless on the side of a rural road in King and Queen County. The four-year-old beagle, later named Lily Bean, had likely been struck by a car. She was unable to stand, visibly trembling, and clearly in distress. A compassionate passerby acted quickly, bringing her to Regional Animal Shelter for help.

Upon arrival, it was obvious that Lily Bean was in serious pain. She could not put any weight on her left rear leg, and her movement was severely limited. Shelter staff rushed her to an emergency veterinary clinic where x-rays revealed two puncture wounds and a fractured pelvis. Her injuries were extensive and required urgent medical attention.

Despite everything she had been through, Lily Bean’s gentle spirit captured the hearts of everyone she met. In the days leading up to her surgery, she quietly curled up under blankets with shelter staff, offering comfort even as she healed from her trauma. Her resilience and calm nature left a lasting impression.

Thanks to the support of the Richmond Animal Care and Control Foundation through their Tommie Fund, the shelter was able to cover the cost of her surgery. The team also partnered with the nonprofit Friends of King William Animal Shelter to raise additional funds and spread the word about her story.

After surgery, Lily Bean was placed in a loving foster home where she could recover in a peaceful and supportive environment. As she began to heal, her personality started to shine. With time, care, and a quiet space to rest, Lily Bean transformed into a lively and affectionate companion.

Her foster family, who had cared for her through every stage of recovery, soon realized they could not imagine life without her. Once she was officially cleared by her veterinarian, they made the adoption official. Lily Bean now spends her days surrounded by love, comfort, and the security of a home.

Lily Bean’s story is a powerful reminder of what is possible when kindness and community come together. From the good Samaritan who stopped to help, to the veterinary team, rescue partners, and devoted foster family, every person played a part in giving her a second chance. Her journey from the side of the road to a new place in a loving home shows that even the most fraught beginnings can lead to beautiful new chapters.

Our goal at Best Friends is to support all animal shelters in the U.S. in reaching no-kill in 2025. No-kill means saving every dog and cat in a shelter who can be saved, accounting for community safety and good quality of life for pets. 

Shelter staff can’t do it alone. Saving animals in shelters is everyone’s responsibility, and it takes support and participation from the community. No-kill is possible when we work together thoughtfully, honestly, and collaboratively.