Its Year Three to Save Dogs from the Heartland to the Pacific Northwest
Operation Frodo 2024 will transport over 20 Rescue dogs across America this year to waiting homes.
When winter descends on America’s Midwest, it’s not just people who feel the chill. Hundreds of dogs, from discarded hunting companions to abandoned puppy mill puppies, are left without homes as temperatures drop. Enter Operation Frodo, a mission that’s part epic road trip, part rescue initiative to give these canines a second chance.
Launching on December 15th, Operation Frodo 2024 will see Rescue volunteers and a convoy of journalists, influencers, and PR professionals driving home dogs to give them the chance of a better life. The journey spans five days, with stops in Denver, Salt Lake City, and Boise, before reaching its final destination in Beaverton, Oregon, where eager families await the arrival of their new companions. It’s a testament to grit, compassion, and sheer logistical prowess.
The Vehicles and Sponsors Powering the Mission
The convoy will include an impressive fleet of loaned vehicles featuring the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, Hyundai Santa Fe, Subaru Forester, Kia Carnival, Genesis GV80, and Ford Explorer. It’s a mixed bag of road warriors, but each vehicle has a job: ferrying these dogs safely across snowy mountain passes and unpredictable winter roads. Nissan USA has generously sponsored the fuel, ensuring each mile of this journey is covered. At the same time, Infiniti USA has mmade a major donation to assist with team travel expenses. Bridgestone has kindly provided winter tires for the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter van to ensure the safety of our largest vehicle on our winter trip.
A Route Built for Both Resilience and Hope
Starting in Omaha, Nebraska, the team embarks on December 15 and is bound for Denver. Each stopover includes a short rest, media updates, and a quick dog-walking session to keep spirits high among the canine passengers. After an overnight stay in Salt Lake City, where some canine passengers will find their new home with the Utah Beagle Rescue, the convoy will continue to Boise before completing the final stretch to Beaverton, Oregon. Once there, dogs bound for Seattle are transferred to foster homes while others meet their forever families.
Volunteers: The Unsung Heroes
Operation Frodo relies heavily on volunteer dedication, from the relentless and committed team at Basset and Beagle Rescue of the Heartland in Omaha, Nebraska, to drivers – who include a mix of automotive journalists, influencers, and public relations specialists who cover all travel expenses themselves, contributing time, funds, and goodwill. Volunteer drivers face extreme winter driving conditions, yet each knows the stakes: every hour on the road is a step closer to saving a life.
“Volunteers sign up for a journey that’s physically demanding and emotionally exhausting but utterly fulfilling,” says Harvey Briggs, volunteer coordinator for Operation Frodo. “We’re not just moving dogs; we’re moving hearts. It’s a chance to be part of something larger, something truly life-changing.”
The Broader Impact: Supporting a Network of Rescues
This isn’t just about transportation; it’s a community endeavor involving multiple rescue organizations. Animal Rescue Rigs, a dedicated group that orchestrates Operation Frodo, collaborates with Basset and Beagle Rescue of the Heartland, which coordinates the canine logistics, and Utah, Cascade, and Seattle Beagle Rescues, which oversees fostering and rehoming.
By engaging with a broad network of rescues and supporters, Operation Frodo saves lives and raises awareness about the plight of unwanted dogs in the Midwest. The goal is simple but significant: connect a network of resources to give these animals a new start, whether it’s a beagle needing a warm bed or a former lab dog hoping for a second chance.
Public Support and How to Get Involved
Animal lovers across the country can get involved by donating to Animal Rescue Rigs or any of our partner rescues along the route listed below. Operation Frodo’s organizers have made it easy for the public to pitch in, even if they’re thousands of miles from the route. A small donation can have a big impact, helping keep dogs comfortable and well-cared for during the journey.
About Operation Frodo
Operation Frodo is a nationwide canine rescue initiative designed to transport as many homeless dogs as possible from the Heartland of America to their forever homes on the West Coast. This project not only serves to relocate these animals in need but also aims to raise funds for Animal Rescue Rigs, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that builds dedicated animal transport vehicles for shelters nationwide. ARR has partnered with Basset and Beagle Rescue of the Heartland, Cascade Beagle Rescue, and Seattle Beagle Rescue to reach their goal of rescuing over 20 dogs during Operation Frodo in 2024.
Social Media
Follow along with #OperationFrodo2024 on Facebook, Twitter (X), Instagram, and more.
Websites:
Basset and Beagle Rescue of the Heartland
