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Millie Bobby Brown: From Hollywood Star to Animal Rescue Advocate

Millie Bobby Brown, known for her role in Stranger Things, has dedicated her life to animal welfare by transforming her Georgia farm into a sanctuary for neglected animals. Through her organization, Joey’s Friends, she has successfully adopted out over 250 dogs. Brown's hands-on approach includes pursuing veterinary studies and managing medical care for the animals. With support from her husband, she continues to expand her rescue efforts, marking a significant chapter in her life beyond acting. Read on to learn more about her inspiring journey and the impact of her work.
 

Transforming a Farm into a Sanctuary


Millie Bobby Brown, widely celebrated for her portrayal of Eleven in the acclaimed series Stranger Things, has devoted a significant part of her life to animal welfare away from the limelight. Since 2022, she has converted her rural Georgia farm into a haven for abandoned and neglected animals, establishing an organization called Joey’s Friends. What started as a personal initiative to foster dogs has grown into a well-organized rescue operation, successfully facilitating the adoption of over 250 dogs.

The organization is dedicated to rescuing animals from dire situations, including those that have been abandoned, abused, or are at risk of euthanasia due to overcrowded shelters. Brown takes a proactive role in identifying strays in her community, ensuring they are registered with animal control, and bringing them to her farm for medical care and rehabilitation. Recently, she obtained an official rescue license, formalizing the efforts of her and her team to help these animals find permanent, loving homes.


A Dedicated Approach to Animal Care

A Hands-On Approach to Veterinary Care

Brown’s dedication to animal welfare goes beyond merely providing shelter. She has actively pursued veterinary studies to enhance her ability to care for the animals, even acquiring an ultrasound machine to monitor pregnancies and health issues. In a recent interview, she shared that she manages medical records, treats injuries, and keeps track of vital signs herself. Her commitment includes plans for an externship to gain more experience in observing surgical procedures, highlighting her belief that real change requires hands-on involvement rather than just online advocacy.


Life on the Farm

Growth and Future Milestones

The daily life on the farm is a stark contrast to the glitz of Hollywood. Brown describes it as a bustling environment, currently home to 62 animals, including personal pets, foster dogs, and various farm animals like ponies, goats, and a donkey. Among the many success stories is Rigby, an elderly, blind Dachshund who was found abandoned on the roadside and has since learned to navigate the farm with confidence.

The organization’s influence continues to expand, with support from Brown’s husband, Jake Bongiovi, who helps with the intensive care needed for vulnerable animals, such as tube-feeding newborn puppies. In March 2026, the rescue celebrated a significant achievement by hosting its first annual gala, aimed at raising awareness and support for Joey’s Friends.

For Brown, the lively chaos of the farm has become a fulfilling environment. By balancing her prominent acting career with the demanding responsibilities of animal rescue, she has established a sustainable operation that offers a second chance to countless animals in need. The organization remains committed to its core mission of rehabilitation and successful placements, marking an important chapter in the actress's life beyond her on-screen roles.