Journalists and volunteers unite to save dogs
Operation Frodo is more than a road trip; it’s part of a growing effort to rescue dogs from uncertain futures and deliver them to loving homes thousands of miles away. Along the journey, volunteers get the added joy of connecting with (and cuddling with) the pups while helping save lives.
For the fourth year in a row, automotive journalists, automakers, and dedicated rescue groups are teaming up to make the mission possible. Automakers provide vehicles, public sponsors step in with support, and a network of animal lovers comes together to move dogs safely across the country. It’s a lot of work, but the payoff is worth it.
At the center of the effort is Animal Rescue Rigs, which partners with Basset and Beagle Rescue of the Heartland to coordinate logistics in the Midwest. On the receiving end, rescues in Utah, Oregon, and Seattle take over, ensuring the dogs are fostered and eventually placed in permanent homes.
The operation is spearheaded by Nik Miles and Harvey Briggs, who bring together a group of volunteers each year
Miles, a well-known automotive journalist and television personality, originally helped launch the effort after seeing the urgent need for safe transport of dogs bound for overcrowded shelters. His industry connections have helped secure loaned vehicles, sponsorships, and publicity for the cause.
Many automakers have been, and will continue to be, involved, including Hyundai, Nissan, Subaru, Mercedes-Benz, Kia, Volkswagen, Ram, Ford, Genesis, Jeep, and Infiniti – among others. We expect to see some of these automakers, and a few new ones, at the event, which begins in the middle of December 2025.
Briggs, also an automotive journalist, took on the role of volunteer coordinator, managing the dozens of moving parts—from scheduling drivers to ensuring the dogs remained safe and comfortable on their long journey. “Volunteers sign up for a journey that’s physically demanding and emotionally exhausting but utterly fulfilling,” says Briggs. “We’re not just moving dogs; we’re moving hearts. It’s a chance to be part of something larger, something truly life-changing.”
Together, Miles and Briggs have built Operation Frodo into a rare collaboration between journalists, automakers, and animal lovers. What began as a small effort has grown into a multi-state relay that saves hundreds of dogs each year.
This is the first of two posts regarding the event. I will be volunteering this year and will cover the operation from the inside. I was honored to do this a few years back, and I’m thrilled to do it again. It’s moving, cathartic, and remarkably rewarding for an animal lover – and there’s a way you can help!
How the public can help
Support for Operation Frodo isn’t limited to those behind the wheel. Animal lovers across the U.S. can help by donating to Animal Rescue Rigs or purchasing items directly from an Amazon Wishlist, which includes essentials like food, leashes, and toys.
Even small donations make a big impact. Keeping dogs comfortable on the road, ensuring they arrive safe, healthy, and ready for their new homes, takes a community with a big heart. We need your support to make this endeavor a success. To join the cause or donate supplies, visit the official supply list here.
