Keke, Do You Love Me? (Spoiler Alert: She Will If You Adopt Her)

Published September 2, 2025 by PETA Foundation.

4 min read

When PETA’s after-hours emergency team received a call about a supposedly dangerous dog, they were prepared for the worst. The caller claimed that her 3-year-old dog, Keke, had attacked another canine, and that the offending animal had to go. PETA’s intrepid fieldworkers geared up, ready for the treacherous task of safely securing an unpredictable, potentially aggressive dog.

Instead, they found themselves face-to-face with a terrified goldendoodle whose curls were matted and urine-stained from being perpetually crated in her own waste. Keke didn’t know how to walk on a leash—she cowered and flattened her body against the front porch, trying desperately to make herself as small as possible. The PETA workers were nearly overwhelmed by the stench of ammonia emanating from the house and from Keke’s hair, which hit them, in their words, “like a freight train.”

A goldendoodle dog with matted fur — Being liberated from that filthy crate sure got Keke in her feelings.

They were already on high alert that something shifty was afoot—Keke displayed no sign of aggression and was instead completely shut down—and their concern grew when the woman wouldn’t allow them to check on the other crated dog in the house. And when they brought Keke back to PETA’s headquarters, she was so petrified that she wouldn’t even walk—it took 10 minutes just to coax her out of the transport crate.

Keke, now shaved and looking at the camera — “Look, the new me is really still the real me.” –Keke, after a serious grooming sesh.

PETA notified local animal control authorities of the situation, who seized Keke as evidence that her former owner had failed to provide her with the care required by law. After a brief stint in the local municipal shelter, Keke was transferred back to PETA to recuperate and gain confidence before searching for a more permanent home.

Keke, a pale white dog, looking at the viewer — “Are you riding?” (To the park, because Keke would like to come too, please.)

Once Keke realized she was free from that fetid crate forever, her real personality began to peek through—and it’s nothing like the original description. She’s quiet, chill, and laidback—unusual for goldendoodles, typically known for their next-level energy. She’s no longer afraid of leashes or walks, although she does like to take a break mid-stroll to lean against her human pals.

Keke leaning on someone's leg. — Adopt Keke, and she’ll never ever leave from beside you. (Literally. The human in this photo may or may not have fallen over from the power of her super-relaxed lean.)

Having spent years largely ignored in a crate all day and forced to eliminate in the same small space where she slept, she’s understandably still getting the hang of house training. Her new family must be patient as she masters the art of relieving herself outdoors. One skill she’s already an expert in? Winning over everyone she meets with her contagious canine grin.

A person petting Keke, a pale white goldendoodle dog — “’Cause I want ya, and I need ya!”

At about 35 pounds, Keke is not the biggest doodle around, but she’s still working toward a healthy weight. She’s spayed and ready to ride anywhere on the East Coast for the perfect home.