FOLLOWING ARE THE STORIES OF PETS #328-#410 DELIVERED BY OPERATION ROGER DRIVERS IN 2009.  WE ARE PROUD OF THEM ALL.

WE HOPE YOU ENJOY READING. WHEN WE HAVE PICTURES, WE WILL ENDEAVOR TO GET THEM ON HERE.

We would also like to ask that if you have photos of any of the transports we have done, please send them along with an e-mail to: operationrogerphotos@yahoo.com with a copy to oprogertony@yahoo.com.  We would love to get them on the following board.

In the subject header enter the pet's transported name & number, as this is the way we have them recorded.  In the body of the e-mail, tell us about the photo-who/what/when/where, new name, etc.  Give us an update story on the pet. We would really like to get all pets featured with a photo.  If you have an updated photo of one already shown, please send it also. 

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#401 RUSSEL (Vizsla) Mitchell, SD - Central Point, OR
RUSSEL (Rusty), a 3 m/o male was in dispair of being adopted as a therapy dog until Driver Mike W called his team leader, Sue W, to see if there were any pets needing a ride from MN to WA. Upon learning Russel was in SD, Mike decided to divert just a little to pick the little fellow up. The plan was for him to meet with Driver Mike S in the Spokane, WA, area who was to take Russel to Driver Brad M near Salt Lake City, UT. Brad in turn was to transport him on to Portland where he would meet a Layover Home. The Layover Home would then meet a pilot from one of the private pilot organizations who would fly Russel on to the Central Point/Medford area.
As it turned out, a family friend of the receiver notified them he had decided to drive down from Seattle to see them. Upon learning about Russel, he postponed his trip a day and met with Driver Mike W in Kent, WA. Russel in now on his final journey to Central Point, OR, near the CA border.
Russel and Mike's Blue Heeler, Dillon, enjoyed playing together in the snow and giving Mike a lot of laughs as they made the trip across an icy and snowy northern WY and central MT.
Operation Roger Driver Mike W pu 11/30/09 - del 12/3/09
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#400 MERLIN (Australian Shepherd) Alexandria, MN - Albuquerque, NM
MERLIN, a 55# male 8 y/o was driven by his foster Delanie M from Alexandria to meet Driver Terri T in New Brighton, MN, to begin his trucking career. Not knowing exactly where she would be going next, Terri took the chance an added Merlin to her other two traveling companions.
We were looking for a repower for Merlin when Terri surprised us with a trip from the Eastern US directly to Albuquerque. Merlin was delivered safely to his new family Brad & Marie W.
Operation Roger Driver Terri T pu 11/10/09 - del 11/17/09
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 #399 COOKIE (ACD) Joshua, TX - Aurora, CO
COOKIE, a 9 mo 35# male showed up one day at the home of Operation Roger Layover Home Sue W and wouldn't leave. He make it quite clear he believed he had found his home. After awhile, Sue realized what breed he was and called the New Hope Cattle Dog Rescue out of Aurora, CO. Upon receiving a picture of him, there was no doubt they wanted him.
Driver Mike W tried on a previous occasion to pick up Cookie but he already had three dogs on board, his own ACD Dillon, plus his son and his son's ACD, plus a Lab who was enroute. Sue learned Cookie appeared to be a true ACD with the stubby tail, the proper tan markings across his chest and on his legs plus a white dot in the top of his head.
Sue sought the help of her local vet twice for his loose stools but they could find no problems they thought to be the cause. Later, seeing an improvement while on probiotics, she and Mike thought it would be okay for him to transport Cookie as Mike was going straight to the Denver area.
Cookie was met in Aurora by a member of the group and taken directly onto Ft. Collins to a foster home. As the lady had her children with her, Cookie was in his element. He loves people and children.
For the next few days after Cookie left, Sue kept looking out at the yard where her other two dogs, Buddy, a American Bulldog, and Huck, a Doxi, would be and wonder what was wrong before realizing the problem was Cookie was gone. He definitely won a place in her heart and will be missed. Even Buddy and Huck seem listless without Cookie there to herd them around. However, he is in a much better area to find a family who can really take care of and love him as he deserves to be.
Operation Roger Driver Mike W and Layover Home Sue W pu 11/12/09 - del 11/14/09
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 #397 KALI & #398 BALI (Dumbo Rats NJ - NE
KALI, thought to be a Guinea Pig and her traveling companion BALI, both Dumbo Rats, were on our board a while until we could finally make the final connections. Team drivers Kris & Brandy P were in the position to pick them up several times but normally don't go north of Joplin, MO. An attempt by another driver failed when his route took him too far north of their destination in NE.
Finally, the occasion came when Kris had to drive to the Kansas City area from Joplin on Friday, November 6. Arrangements were made with an OR Layover Home in Belton, MO, to take the two rats from him, keep them overnight, and drive north to the Iowa, Nebraska, Missouri border to meet the receiver, a young teen and her parents about half way. We thank Tammy for her efforts to get these little girls delivered.
Operation Roger team drivers Kris & Brandy P and LOH Tammy pu 11/3/09 - del 11/7/09
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WE RECEIVED THIS E-MAIL FROM THE DRIVER: November 8, 2009 
THIS IS MY REPORT ON KALI AND BALI, THE TWO DUMBO RATS. WE PICKED UP WHAT WE THOUGHT WOULD BE GUINEA PIGS. AS IT TURNED OUT THEY WERE DUMBO RATS. WE MET THE SHIPPER IN A WALGREENS PARKING LOT IN NORTHERN NEW JERSEY JUST OFF I-287.
WE TRAVELED WITH THE RATS FROM NJ TO PHILADELPHIA, PA, WHERE WE PICKED UP OUR NEXT LOAD GOING TO SPRINGFIELD MO. AFTER DELIVERING OUR FREIGHT IN MO, WE TOOK THE RATS HOME WITH US AND THEN DROVE THEM IN OUR PERSONAL VEHICLE TO PECULIAR MO WHERE I MET TAMMY, THE LAYOVER HOME WHO TOOK THEM FROM ME. SHE WOULD MEET THE RECEIVER THE NEXT DAY IN OR NEAR NEBRASKA CITY NE.
I WAS NOT A RAT PERSON AND PROBABLY WOULD NOT HAVE PICKED THEM UP HAD I KNOWN THEY WERE RATS IN THE FIRST PLACE. AFTER THIS EXPERIENCE, I HAVE FOUND OUT MORE ABOUT RATS. BY THE TIME I DROPPED THEM OFF I WAS HOLDING THEM AND EVEN PLAYING THEM. I AM STILL NOT THRILLED ABOUT RATS BUT WILL AT LEAST THINK ABOUT IT IF A NEED ARISES IN THE FUTURE. THANK YOU, KRIS P
Operation Roger Note: Kris & Brandy have now joined the growing number of OR drivers who have been introduced to the rattie community by transporting. Thanks guys!
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WE RECEIVED THIS E-MAIL FROM THE RECEIVER:
Saturday, November 14, 2009 To: operationroger01@yahoo.com
Thank you for checking up. Tammy was wonderful and we really appreciate her help with the transport. I have not decided on a name yet for "Bali".
Vanessa V
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#396 KELLY (MinPin) Chapman, KS - Orofino, ID
KELLY, an 8# blind 1 y/o female was picked up near Manhattan, KS, by team driver Mike & Cindy. Kelly went East to KY before turning back West again. She was met in Boise, ID, by her family, Bonnie T and husband, before making the final drive to Orofino where she joins other MinPins.
Operation Roger Team Drivers Mike & Cindy G pu 11/2/09 - del 11/5/09
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WE RECEIVED THIS E-MAIL FROM THE RECEIVER

This email is long overdue but i have been sooooo busy helping Kelley to adapt to our home and she is doing super fro being totally blind.  Cindy and Mike Gott were two of the loveliest people I have met in a long time and the pup did very well with them.  Cindy hated to give her up.  Everything went just as planned as if it was meant to be. 

They arrived in Boise and it just so happened the hotel i booked was right across the street from the TA where they wanted us to meet them.  I had no idea when I booked the hotel where it was or how close it ws to the TA. 

We spent some time visiting in the parking lot and took some pictures, I forgot my dang camera.  Anyway I cannot thank Operation Roger or Cindy and Mike enough for bringing our little girl to us.  She is full of energy runs all over the house she has somewhat become friends with our beagle but the other two min pins still have their noses in the air.  All will be well eventually. 

Again thank you so much for you help and your organization. 

Sincerely, Bonnie T
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RECEIVED THIS E-MAIL FROM SHIPPER:
From: Twyla Cooper To: operationroger01@yahoo.com
Date: Friday, January 15, 2010, 2:20 PM

 

 

I wanted to touch base with you on a few things.  First of all I want to Thank You for your service, and allowing Kelley to be transported to her forever home by Mike & Cindy, starting on November 2^nd, 2009.  They were absolutely wonderful, and I have to say they might be the nicest people I have ever met.  Kelley is a Miniature Pinscher that was born blind, and was able to get to her new, loving home with the help of Operation Roger.  Otherwise I am not sure what would have became of her.  She is doing great in her new home, and they love her.
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#395 DADDY (Blue Heeler) New Philadelphia, OH - Spring Lake, NC
 DADDY, a 4 m/o male had to be left behind when his owners were required to move to NC by bus. Of course, Daddy was not allowed on. A local rescuer, Julie T, took Daddy in to take care of him until transport could be found. In an unusual move, a transport was available the same day his application arrived, but it was in Obetz, a suburb of Columbus. Julie, without a car, quickly found other transportation for herself and Daddy, and met the driver within hours as she waited for her trailer to be loaded.
Driver Terri T will be adding her story of the transport with Daddy here soon. Look for it.
Operation Roger Driver Terri T pu 10-26-09 del 11-4-09
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WE RECEIVED THIS E-MAIL FROM THE DRIVER:

Daddy and I owe a great amount of gratitude to Julie. She was a great person who found the most difficult of times and made them easier. Through phone calls and directions she found her way to Obetz, Ohio where she released Daddy into my custody. I informed Sherry and Julie that I had to deliver in Texas and then work my way to North Caronlina where I would deliver Daddy. Through thick and thin I delivered Daddy as promised. He was a great companion. A bit of a turkey if you ask me and Oliver (Terry's pet).

Oliver and Daddy soon became best buds. They spent the mornings, evenings and nights playing and roughing each other up just like pups do on occasion. Oliver thought Daddy was his son. He showed a lot of interests in looking after Daddy. There wasn't a moment that Daddy was out of his sight or mine. It was destined to be the best week of their lives. Well, that's until Daddy was reunited with Sherry, who had missed him so much. When Sherry and her boyfriend arrived to pick up Daddy, I wanted to cry. Daddy knew from the time he heard her voice that he was safely back in his momma's arms. He was so anxious to be with her again that he almost leaped out my arms. It was a great reunion that makes me understand the love and devotion for our fury people.

The Puppy Song By Harry Nilsson

If only I could have a friend who’d stick with me until the end

#394 MATS (Black Lab) Ft. Wayne, IN – Lodi, CA

MATS, a 55# 2 y/o male, and his driver owner, Dave W, were stranded in Ft. Wayne, IN, and needed to return to Lodi,CA, via bus. Of course, Mats couldn’t go. OR Layover Home volunteers, Susan and Greg R, drove to Ft. Wayne, IN, and returned to their home in Walbridge, OH.

While there, Mats was so truck trained, he would not go outside without a leash. When Susan and Greg would take the leash off thinking Mats would want to play in the yard, he would head back to the door to go inside. Susan reported Mats attached himself to Greg, which was very unusual for Greg as all their dogs stayed close to Susan. He had to get used to having a dog of his own.

Mats stayed with them until Driver Mike W and his son Chris could make it through OH. At first, the plan was to take Mats to TX and stay at another Layover Home to await a driver. Then Mike and Chris learned they would be going on to CA in another week and a half. They decided to keep Mats on board and deliver him themselves.

Mats became fast friends with Chris’ red Australian Shepherd, Levi. Mike’s deaf Australian Shepherd, Dillon, tolerated the two quite well over all.

When Mike pulled into the truck stop in Lodi, Mats’ ears perked up and his whole demeanor went on alert. Mike just thought Mats needed to go out. Once outside, Mats headed for the grass and literally did a jig around Mike. About that time, Dave called and confirmed Mats had been at that truck stop many times and obviously recognized where he was.

When Dave arrived and Mats saw him, it was all over. He knew his master immediately and was beside himself with happiness. According to reports, the reunion brought tears to grown men’s eyes.

Operation Roger driver Mike W and son Chris pu 10-16-09 – del 10-28-09
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#392 MUFFIN & #393 BUDDY (Tabby) Tucson, AZ -Indianapolis, IN
MUFFIN & BUDDY, both about 16 y/o and 15# were the pets of a man who had to be hospitalized for a lengthy stay. The duo were taken to a shelter. Bruce A of Indianapolis wanted to keep the cats safe for when his brother is well and can once again care for the aging felines.
Driver Terri T went over and beyond the call of duty when she willingly went to the shelter while staying in Tucson a few days with some friends and retrieved the cats. Terri will be writing her story of the trip. Look for it here soon.
Operation Roger Driver Terri T pu 10/15/09 - del 10/23/09
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 WE RECEIVED THIS E-MAIL: Monday, October 26, 2009 8:44 AM
From: "bruce.1.anderson To: operationroger01@yahoo.com
And Thank you so much too.
The cats are in a much better place Thanks to you and Terri.
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WE RECEIVED THIS E-MAIL: Tuesday, October 27, 2009 12:18 PM

#391 PHELEN (Pitt) Beaumont, TX - New Orleans, LA
PHELEN, a 45# female red-nosed Pitt began her journey in Salt Lake City, UT, when her master lost his job with a truck company. Between walking and the occasional ride from truckers, they arrived in Beaumont, TX, some 18 days later. Driver Bob F picked them up and took them to Slidell, LA, where Paul's mother met them.
Phelen and Little Joe, Bob's Puggle, got along great and both wanted to play. However, Paul decided to put Phelen into Little Joe's crate for the short trip.
Operation Roger driver Bob F pu 10/20/09 - del 10/20/09
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#390 GOOD GOLLY MISS MOLLY (Chiwinnie) Ocean City, NJ - Palm Beach Gardens, FL
GOOD GOLLY MISS MOLLY, a 4# female with a name to match her attitude has had quite a scenic tour of the U.S. Not only has she seen the southern portion of our great country several times, she has traveled the southeast as well. In her travels with Driver Nancy R she discovered dogs came in bigger sizes...much, much bigger sizes!
She was not a happy camper when Maya, a 45# Pit joined them. Miss Molly, as she became known, was happy when she realized Maya was soon gone but that elation lasted only an hour or so until Ringo, an 80# Rhodesian Ridgeback came on board. She wouldn't come off the passenger seat but would look around the seat to the bunk area as if to say, "I didn't know dogs grew THAT big!"
Two nights later Ringo was gone and Miss Molly breathed a sigh of relief...until Sally May, a 50# Ridgeback. Then came Tennessee, a 50# Pit. There is no doubt, Miss Molly is thinking by this time she is the only tiny dog around.
She began her travels in Ocean City, NJ, after being rescued by Charlene P. When Driver Nancy R could not get any further north than MD, Charlene met Layover Home volunteer Bill T in DE. Bill kept Miss Molly overnight and took her down to meet Nancy. Miss Molly's new mom, Patricia C and a friend, drove up to Vero Beach to meet Nancy in her own private vehicle. There will be a period of adjustment for Miss Molly as she was with Nancy for so long. No doubt though that Patricia will quickly win Miss Molly's heart and devotion.
Operation Roger Driver Nancy R, Layover Home/Shuttle Driver Bill T pu 8/29/09 - del 10/5/09
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 #389 STELLA (Pekingese) Portland, OR - Arvada, CO
STELLA, a 12 y/o blind female, was in a kill shelter in Spokane, WA, when Kathy S walked in with her brother and father, who was looking for a furry companion. Kathy fell in love with Stella and immediately adopted her. But getting her back to CO was a big problem once Kathy and her brother, Jamie, returned to Portland as Kathy had to fly out the next day.
Driver Brad M picked Stella up and took her back to the Ogden, UT, area where he and his wife, Collette, served as a Layover Home until Team Drivers Mike & Cindy G could pick her up early Saturday morning. On the way, Mike & Cindy broke down in Glenwood Springs, CO. Monday, they got the starter replaced. Kathy and a friend met Mike & Cindy at the TA Truck Stop in Commerce City.

Driver Brad M and Team Drivers Mike & Cindy G pu 9/16/09 del 10/5/09
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#388 BROWNIE (Terrier X) Kirbyville, MO - New Haven, VT
BROWNIE, an 8 m/o male, began his journey in Kirbyville, MO, as a stray. Rescued by Linda B, he found himself driven by car to Springfield, MO, where he joined Little Joe in a big truck with Team Drivers/Leaders Kris & Brandy P.
Kris & Brandy had tried for at least four weeks to get him out of MO. Their route normally took them to NYC so a Layover Home was needed plus some Shuttle Drivers as we just didn't have any truckers going up into the Northeast. Then they got a load to just south of Albany, NY.
One of OR Layover Home/Shuttle Drivers was willing to drive the three hours out of MA to get him, but in the meantime, Team Leader Nancy R, coordinated a layover home outside Harrisburg, PA, with Belinda C, and a 4-wheel transport to VT. The transport fell through a few days later and another home had to be found. OR Layover Home volunteer Kay B stepped forward and Brownie went to Mercerburg, PA, for another week while transport coordinator Jane G, with Above and Beyond, put together another run.
Finally, Brownie has reached his new home with Linda S. We understand he is already being spoiled, as he deserves to be.
As an added note, Kris & Brandy, who had gone to Albany, NY, area after dropping Brownie off with the first layover home, was sent further northeast and came back through New Haven, VT, the town where Brown was to go. Wouldn't you know!!
Team Leaders/Drivers Kris & Brandy P, pu 9/19/09 del 10/3/09, Layover Homes Belinda C, Kay B, and several shuttle drivers organized by Jane G.
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#387 SHADOW (Himalayan) Spokane, WA - Colorado Springs, CO
SHADOW, a 3-4 y/o female at 8-9 pounds has made her trip from Spokane to Colorado Springs in flying colors, literally. Picked up in Spokane by team Drivers Mike & Cindy G from Monica M with only a couple hours notice, Shadow joined their two cats Vato and Tozzy on the truck.
Shadow then met her new "mom" Ashley C in Henderson, CO. Shortly thereafter, she boarded a private plane and flew on to Colorado Springs, CO, and her new home.
Operation Roger Drivers Mike & Cindy G pu 9/29/09 - del 10/1/09
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#386 KENNEL Rosedale, NY - Latrobe, PA
KENNEL. This was a 6 foot x 12 foot dog kennel donated from one rescue to another in order to accommodate large dogs.
We really didn't think this would be possible as it couldn't be transported in the cab of the truck and would require a large area in a trailer that wasn't sealed. However, once again, we were surprised. Not only did such drivers try to get it moved despite the restrictions, it did take a car hauler going directly through Rosedale to pick it up. He went a little out of his way to deliver the pen directly to the rescue. Thanks Dan, you're awesome.
Operation Roger Driver Dan W pu 9/27/09 del 9/28/09
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#385 TENNESSEE (Pit) Los Angeles, CA - Lubbock, TX
   #385 TENNESSEE (Pit) Los Angeles, CA - Lubbock, TX
TENNESSEE, a 3-4 y/o male had scald burns on  his back. Whether this was intentional or not we don't know but he did appear to be abused. Found on the internet by adopter Laura G, Tennessee looked to her like the last Pit she had owned and she wanted him.
Driver Nancy R was headed toward CA when Tennessee's application arrived. Knowing she would be returning on I-20 through Big Springs or I-40 through Amarillo, Nancy took him on board, joining the Chiwinnie Miss Molly, while she made her rounds around CA.
Laura drove to Amarillo to pick him up and he is now in his new loving home.
Operation Roger Driver Nancy R pu 9/22/09 del 9/28/09
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WE RECEIVED THIS E-MAIL:
Date: Wednesday, 20 January, 2010, 10:30 AM

This is Tennessee, I adopted him in Oct from East Vallet Animal Shelter in LA, CA. He was delivered to me by driver, Nancy R. ( I had to go to Amarillo TX and pick him up).  He is a great dog...had some issues with nipping when he gets excited but that is from no people socialization. He is getting much better about that. He's gained about 10-15 lbs since being here. He eats alot but that is probably from not being fed regularly at last home. He gets to eat all the time and sleeps in the bed. As you can see he is laying on the couch on my pillows.  ha ha  He is such a good dog. Thanks to you, Nancy R and all the folks in Cali that helped get him to Texas. Don't worry, this is Tennessee's last stop on this earth. He has MOST DEFINATELY found his forever home.  Thanks to you all. We love y'all  Laura Lea and Tennessee ********************************************************************

#384 SALLY MAY (Rhodesian Ridgeback) Carrollton, TX - Midland, TX
SALLY MAY, a 6 y/o female 50#, didn't quite know what to make of her surroundings when she found herself inside a big truck along with a 4# Chiwinnie. She did manage, however, to quickly make the bunk of Driver Nancy R hers.
She had barely adjusted to this new development in her life when a severe storm hit the Dallas/Fort Worth area with high winds, rain, and some hail. Nancy said she looked back and this big dog was shaking. Of course, this galvanized Nancy into her protective mode. She sat by Sally May and comforted the big dog until the storm was over.
Nancy was contacted by her vet, Dr. Gardner, in Florida. His son had been in a car wreck in the Dallas area and was being flown back home. Sally May needed to be transported a short distance to Midland to a friend who would then fly her back to Florida. As it happened, Nancy was then just coming into the Dallas area and could pick Sally May up on her way to California.
Operation Roger Driver Nancy R pu 9/21/09 del 9/22/09
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#383 RINGO (Rhodesian Ridgeback) Kilgore, TX - Las Vegas, NV
 RINGO, a male 4 y/o 80#, has made it to a temporary home in Phoenix, AZ. His new mom, Michelle U and family, were scheduled to be in Phoenix on vacation about the time the Driver, Nancy R, was scheduled to go through so the arrangements were made to let Ringo stay with a rescue there.
Operation Roger Driver Nancy R pu 9/5/09 del 9/7/09
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#382 FRITZ (Miniature Schnauzer) W. Des Moines, IA - Sidney, NE
FRITZ, a 25# male, 1 y/o, met Driver Mark S in Des Moines with the help of rescuer Paula S. The short over-night trip was basically uneventful with the exception of Mark discovering little Fritz was an escape artist.
His bolt to freedom didn't last long though. With the help of another driver, Mark was able to corral the escapee quickly and returned him to the truck. The trip was completed without another incident.
However, the receiver, Tammy L, also a rescuer, has indicated Fritz is most definitely an escape artist as he has already gotten away from her a time or two. Of course, always to be recaught. No doubt, his talent was the reason for his being found a stray to begin with.
Operation Roger Driver Mark S pu 9-4-09 del 9-5-09
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#381 MAYA (Pit) El Paso, TX - Plant City, FL (Mesquite, TX)
 Maya, a 45# female 2 y/o, has quite an interesting story. Orignally found as a stray near an overpass in the Dallas, TX, area by Jonnah, she was found to be heart worm positive. Jonnah contacted a friend, Ginger B. Together they arranged for Maya to be treated for both the heartworms and to be spayed through a rescue in El Paso, TX.
After her treatment and spaying, Driver Nancy R, picked up Maya with the original destination to be Plant City, FL. Before she could make her way across country and back at least two times, the original rescuers had found Maya another home...of all places, back in the DFW area in Mesquite, close to where she was originally found!
Maya has made herself a big part of the family already. The elderly mother of the current owner, Mike P, had become quite despondent, pretty much living in her own world, when Maya decided she would take the lady under her paw. In a short time, the mother has responded very favorably to Maya's attention and gentle persuations and is coming alive again. All for the love of a pet.
Operation Roger Driver Nancy R pu 8-22-09 del 9-5-09
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#380 OCSAR (Mixed) MS-Wichita, KS
Oscar was found abandoned, starving, and near death in a truck stop by Driver Terri T. She took him immediately to a vet who said the pup was only a few days from dying. She got him all his shots, nursed him back to health on her truck, and arranged a foster home for him with her sister in KS. Terri thought she had a home for him but as that fizzled by the time she returned to KS, she said she would continue to look for a home in which she could be certain Oscar would be well cared for.
We look forward to hearing the "rest of the story."
Operation Roger Driver Terri T pu del 8-29-09
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WE RECEIVED THIS E-MAIL FROM THE DRIVER
Friday, September 4, 2009 4:27 PM

#379 BELLA (Shepard X) San Antonio, TX - Lakewood, CO
 BELLA,a 4 m/o female thought to be a Shepard/Staffordshire mix was a stray on the streets of San Antonio, TX, when she showed up at the home of Steve K. Steve and his children, Jay and Amy, fed the pup. Sadly, Steve died. His sister, Sue K, flew in from CO. Bella took to her immediately and Sue knew she had to get the pup back to CO.
Operation Roger received the application while Co-ordinator Sue W was at the Great America Truck Show in Dallas. She knew Driver Jerry H was there also and would be headed to North Platte, NE, to unload on Monday morning.
OR-Shuttle Driver Lisa C in Alvarado, TX, quickly agreed to drive to Georgetown, TX, to meet Amy K. Lisa turned around and met Sue W in Fort Worth who in turned drove back to Dallas to meet Driver Jerry H at the truck show. Jerry took Bella home with him.
OR-Shuttle Driver Tamara L in Sydney, NE, quickly agreed to pick up Bella from Jerry on Monday morning and take her home before meeting Sue K in Sterling, CO, on Tuesday night.
As it turned out, Sue K was able to help Tammy by bringing another pet out of Denver on Monday night to Sterling. Bella is now at her new home.  As sweet as she is, Sue will have a good pet.
Operation Roger Driver Jerry H, Co-ordinator Sue W, Shuttle Drivers Lisa C and Tamara L pu 8-22-09 del 8-24-09
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#378 ELRAD (Catahoula Leopard) Pensacola, FL - Newburg, NY
ELRAD, a brown 2 y/o 45+# male has finally succeeded in getting to his mistress Katie V in NY. Elrad has quite a story. He ministered along with Katie to the street kids of Pensacola. During that time he was poisoned three times by drug dealers...and survived.
The night before Kati was to leave for a short vacation with her parents, she was bitten by a brown recluse spider. Rushed to the hospital to receive treatment as she is allergic to spider bites, she thought everything was ok to leave the next morning, leaving Elrad in the care of a friend, Patrick S. However, she became very, very ill enroute and wouldn't go to the hospital because she had two other dogs with her and put them first. This has permantely left her with serious health problems.
Learning about Operation Roger in December, she submitted his application. We admittedly had a terrible time getting drivers into the area who were also going toward NY. Then, Driver Dave B joined us in late May.  Living in that area, he quickly let us know he wanted to transport Elrad because he went right through Newburg often. However, it required him going home first. As he had just left home, he wouldn't be back there for another 4-7 weeks. Finally back at home, he made the arrangements with Patrick. But his dispatch called him back to work early and in the middle of the night. Dave didn't have time to have Elrad brought to him so we had to wait for another cycle.
Then it came together. Patrick brought Elrad directly to Dave's home. Dave reports Elrad is very intelligent and was an excellent passenger. Dave had to lift him into the truck only twice before Elrad learned to jump in all by himself. Although warned he was a chewer, Dave said there was never any problems of any kind.
Elrad arrived in Newburg on Sunday night and was met by Katie and her father. When Elrad saw her, it was instant recognition. He put his paws on her shoulders and gave her many hugs. Dave said Kati told Elrad "High 5" and he put up his paw to match hers.
Although it took many months to make this happen, it does show the determination we at Operation Roger have in getting the pets to their destination. It also shows we need more drivers to come on board with us. We had a team who also went through Newburg many times but don't run the south.
Operation Roger Driver Dave B pu 8-20-09 del 8-23-09
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WE HAVE RECEIVED THIS E-MAIL:
Hi Sue,
       Elrad is here, safe and happy.  He would not stop jumping on me.  I also found out, the day that Elrad left Pensacola, his foster home recieved a notice saying everyone had to be off the property in a week because the proper permits were never filed with the state.  Elrad's arrival was perfect timeing.  He has one problem with my house. Elrad's scared of stairs.  There are not many stairs in Florida. He will learn soon.  We tryed making a vidieo, but Dave wasn't understanding what we wanted him to do and was pressed on time due to a delivery change. It is on a mini DVD, I don't know how to send it threw an e-mail.  We also tock one picture, which I'll send shortly.  From the time he pulled in till the time he left it was only about 5 minutes.  My mother thinks you can use it even though it is short and some of it is not ideal, it does show the reunion and it looks very happy.  I also gave Dave some cookies as a thank you and we have a shot of that as well.  We also tried Dave shaking hands/paws as a thank you as well.  Let me know where I can send this to you.  You will like it and I hope it can be of use for Operation Roger.  I cannot thank you and everyone for reuniting me with my dog!!!!!  -katie
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#377 ALEX (Great Pyrenees) Michigan City, IN - Reno, NV
  ALEX, a 3 yr 100# male began his journey when Driver Mike W and his Blue Heeler, Dillon, arrived near Michigan City. Due to Alex's great size, Dillon, himself no light weight at 50# plus, wasn't quite sure what to make of this gentle white fluffy giant. It didn't take long before the two were fast friends who would take each others chew toy just for fun. Now if this wasn't already a house full, Mike's father-in-law, Clarence, joined them enroute.
Needless to say, Alex drew all kinds of attention from other drivers. Mike learned he wasn't as strong as he thought he was when one day Alex saw a rabbit and the chase was on. The only problem was Mike was attached to the other end of the leash!!
Then in Cheyenne, WY, Mike and Clarence parked and went to eat. A driver came in and announced he needed to see the driver of the red Volvo. Unfortunately, the driver had cut too short pulling out and run over the front fender of Mike's truck. This driver needs to be commended to his honesty in reporting the accident for it seems not many will do so anymore. However, every time this driver would walk by the truck, both dogs would come unglued. They didn't bother any other driver going by but they did not like that particular driver. Mike was down for a week before finally heading West toward Reno.
Alex saw Dillon get up onto Mike's seat so he thought he would get his 100-120# bulk up into the passenger seat which wasn't big enough for him. When stopped, drivers would walk by and look up to see this big white fluffy dog thinking it was a stuffed animal until Alex would turn his head to look at them. Their reaction invariably was to exclaimed "It's real!" or "It's alive!"
Alex was soon safely delivered to Callie W and his new family with great joy to all.
Operation Roger Driver Mike W pu 8-5-09 del 8-14-09
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WE HAVE RECEIVED THIS E-MAIL:
From: "Callie Wilson"
I can't even begin to thank Operation Roger and mostly Mike W. for getting Alex the pyrenees to me!  It takes a very special person to
pick up an unknown dog of Alex's size (100+) and drive across the country.  It's one thing to pick up a small dog, but a huge dog that
gets car sick...that's someone special!!  Turns out Alex never got car sick...thank goodness for Mike's sake!  Alex and Mike had quite the adventure getting to Reno and by the time they made it here, Alex and Mike had a very special bond.  You could see how much Alex adored Mike, it made it difficult for me to take him away!  Mike even taught Alex some manners on his way here!  Mike is an absolute delight and I know that I will always have a special place in my heart for him.
Here are a few pictures of Alex's arrival in Reno!
God Bless Mike and Operation Roger!
Callie Woods....and Alex
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#376 SYDNEY (Australian Shepherd) Conroe, TX - Aurora, CO (Alvarado, TX)
SYDNEY, a 1 yr female was scheduled to be pts on 8/15 but Jennifer D, New Hope Cattle Dog Rescue of CO in Aurora, wanted to rescue her. Time was of the essence. As we didn't have any drivers coming up I-45 out of Houston toward Dallas, Co-ordinator Sue W contacted Priyanka J, Pure Mutts Sanctuary, Conroe, TX.
Priyanka quickly agreed to pick up not only Sydney but also Lilly, another rescue by Jennifer, and get them both transported up to Fort Worth on Saturday with her husband, Ravi. Jennifer and Meagan R drove down from CO and we all met in Fort Worth.
Shuttle Driver Lisa C knew she had a new home for Sydney. Jennifer and Meagan R, also of CO, decided to let Sydney stay with Lisa. Sydney is now a trucking companion with ___ and enjoying the scenry.
Operation Roger Co-ordinator Sue W pu 8-15-09 del 8-17-09
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#375 LILLY (Australian Shepherd) Conroe, TX - Aurora, CO
LILLY, a 10 mo female was scheduled to be pts on 8/15 but Jennifer D, New Hope Cattle Dog Rescue of CO in Aurora, wanted to rescue her despite the pup being deaf. Time was of the essence. As we didn't have any drivers coming up I-45 out of Houston toward Dallas, Co-ordinator Sue W contacted Priyanka J, Pure Mutts Sanctuary, Conroe, TX.
Priyanka quickly agreed to pick up not only Lilly but also Sydney, another rescue by Jennifer, and get them both transported up to Fort Worth on Saturday with her husband, Ravi. Jennifer and Meagan R drove down from CO and we all met in Fort Worth.
Lilly is being fostered by Meagan and being taught hand signals. She reportedly is getting along quite well with Meagan's ACD, Jackaroo.
Operation Roger Co-ordinator Sue W pu 8-15-09 del 8-16-09
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#374 NOLA (Native American Indian Dog) Flagstaff, AZ - Hattisburg, MS
NOLA, a 2 mo female had been enroute from CA to MS when circumstances necessitated her being placed with a rescue in Flagstaff for a couple weeks. 
Picked up by expediter Driver Susie M on her way West to CA, Nola stayed on board until they could make their way back East.along I-20 to MS.
Susie said Nola was an excellent passenger and was enjoyable to have with her. Having lost her own trucking companion of many, many years in June, Nola gave her a chance to give back to a needy pet all the love and affection she had received..
Operation Roger Driver Susan M pu 7-24-09 del 8-4-09
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#373 CILLA PRESLEY (LAB) Joshua Tree, CA - Columbia, TN
Cilla Presley, a 60# 10 month old yellow female Lab, has been reunited with her owner, Jacob W. When Jacob had to fly out of CA suddenly to assist his grandmother in TN, a friend, Shelly M, offered to keep Cilla Presley until she could find a ride.
Driver Nancy R picked her up in Ludlow and was quite taken by the young dog. Cilla Presley immediately made herself at home and rode like a true trucking companion.
In Nashville, Nancy and Cilla Presley were outside her truck waiting on Jacob. When he arrived, Cilla Presley had her back to him. As soon as Jacob spoke, she immediately whirled around. Upon seeing him, she became very excited and lunged for him, giving him kisses and hugs galore. Obviously, she loves her human. It is understood, there was a reception party waiting for her back at Jacob's job where she would be the center of attention.
Operation Roger Driver Nancy R pu 7/26/09 del 7/28/09
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#372 SPORT (Border Collie X) Sacramento, CA - Cleveland, OH
SPORT, a 8 y/o 80# male, began his trip in Sacramento with Driver Mike W. Sport's owner, John W, a brother to Mike, had passed away on July 4 and Mike's son, James W, decided to adopt Sport
Mike's Blue Heeler, Dillon, and Sport were both out walking with Mike to a cliff to look at the river, a steep 300 yards down. At the edge, Dillon past on by them and didn't stop. To Mike's horror, Dillon kept on going. Mike couldn't see Dillon until he got down to the river. Once there, Dillon looked back expecting to see Mike and Sport.  When he didn't see them, he look up to see Mike waving him back. Mike was alarmed Dillon wouldn't be able to get back up but the dog did make it, much to Mike's relief.
During the trip, Sport became a international traveler when they went to Calgary, Alberta, Canada, before returning to the States. He also traveled through eleven states before arriving at his new home with James.
That night, James decided to take Sport camping and fishing at a lake. About 3:30 a.m. a sheriff thought James' semi-truck was an abandoned and knocked on the door. Sport went nuts, almost going out the open window. James was able to grab Sport before he could make it out to a very scared officer. Sport has obviously transferred his allegiance to James and is a very capable protector. James told his father "he had never woke up so fast before!!"
Operation Roger Driver Mike W pu 7/5/09 - 7/16/09
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#371 HARLEY (JOE BOB)  (Chihuahua) Sioux Falls, IA - Mukwonago, WI
 HARLEY (renamed Joe Bob), a 5# 6 y/o male, has been the family pet of Shelby B since he was a puppy. Her current work hours prevented her from giving him the time he required coupled with being with two larger dogs caused him to protest by marking the house.  Unable to stop the behavior, she decided to find him another home where he could have more one-on-one time with his human. But when the time came for transport, Shelby really had a hard time deciding whether to let him go or not.  On Operation Rogers second attempt to arrange transport, she determined it was in Harley's best interests.
Since she couldn't make the trip to meet Driver Bob F and his travel companion, Little Joe, a friend, Sherri S, drove down to Council Bluffs, IA, to meet them. Harley, being loyal to those he knew, didn't take kindly to Bob or Little Joe.  It wasn't until Sherri actually put Harley into Bob's arms did he equate he now had a new master in charge.
He, being the older, and Little Joe, being only a year, didn't quite see eye to eye. Little Joe wanted to play and Harley wasn't having any of that nonsense.  They did, however, begin to work out a system by the time Harley reached his next stop.
Met in Lake Station, IN, by temporary Foster Diana S, Harley will be transported on up to his new home in WI soon.
Operation Roger Driver Bob F pu 7/12/09 del 7/13/09
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#370 LORI (Basset Hound) Oklahoma City, OK - El Paso, TX

LORI, an 8 y/o female was a stray when picked up and taken to a kill shelter. Chris D, with a Basset Rescue out of NM, arranged for a foster home in Texas for her and called upon Operation Roger for help in transporting. Within two hours of the notice on our Pet Board, Driver Jim F called on her.
He picked her up the following day from Lori B, a volunteer at the kill shelter.  Jim was concerned at first because Lori wasn't eating and described her as way too thin.  He soon discovered she had a great personality and a very strong wagging tail capable of destruction. Although she didn't actually destroy anything, his leg did take a beating. During the trip, Jim said when he would take Lori out for her walk, she would make a beeline for the truck and the air conditioning.  That she liked very much.
Lori made it to El Paso to her new home with Foster Mom Terry M the following evening. Jim said Terry mentioned Lori's loose skin was unusual for the El Paso area and loved her freckles.  Apparently, Bassets are Terry's passion as she mentioned she would take any of them she could get.
As Lori was driven away, she looked back at Jim through the back window as if to say, "Oh, I loved that ride. Why aren't you coming? Where am I going now?"
Operation Roger Driver Jim F pu 7/11/09 - del 7/12/09
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WE RECEIVED THIS E-MAIL:
On Thursday July 9, 2009 I requested transport for a beautiful basset girl, Lori,  from OKC to El Paso.  I was happily shocked when the request was filled the following day. 

My heart sunk when we realized that Lori has kennel cough.  We had several phone calls with Sue about this and agreed to let Jim, our driver, make the final decision.  I can't begin to tell you how thrilled I am that he agreed to take her.  She is now on the road with him on her way to a new life.

#369 SABLE (Catahoula Leopard) Toole, TX - Jay, FL
 SABLE, a 2 y/o female was brought by Krista M, representing the Humane Society of Cedar Creek, to the truck stop at Terrell, TX, where she met Driver Dave B. Dave reports Sable is already making her home on the floor between the seats and chillin' out, totally enjoying the air conditioning.
Sable didn't want to get out of the truck when Dave did a pit stop as soon as the outside heat struck her face. Dave said he kept talking to her very gently and tugging on the leash until she finally inched her way out. Once she did this one time, she was a quick learner. Dave said he didn't have any more problems other than her throwing up once, probably from the motion of the truck.
Sable met Pam G, her new family, at the truck stop in Theodore, AL. Dave said Sable ran right up to Pam and offered a paw.  She knew she was home
This was Dave's first transport but not his last he says.
Operation Driver Dave B pu 7-2-09 del 7-3-09
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#368 SAMMIE (Border Terrier X) Tuscon, AZ - Greeley, CO
 SAMMIE, a 2 y/o male began his trip near Tuscon with rescuer Donna D who drove him to Phoenix to meet with Shuttle Driver Georgene L who kept him overnight in Prescott. Early the next morning, Georgene and her husband, Jim, drove Sammie up to Ashfork where they met Team Drivers Mike & Cindy G.
Mike and Cindy report Sammie is a joy to have on board. As with most of our travelers, he likes to look out the window or curled up asleep on the passenger seat.  Cindy says he would make a good truck dog.
Sammie met his new family in Henderson, CO, who then took him on to Greeley. This new family was so happy to receive Sammie. All involved felt it was such a joy to give this little dog a second chance at a good life and wanted to thank PetFinder.com and Operation Roger.com in addition to the rescues for what they do.
Operation Roger Drivers Mike & Cindy G, Layover Home/Shuttle Driver Georgene L pu 6/28 del 6/29/09.
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WE RECEIVED THIS E-MAIL FROM THE LAYOVER HOME/SHUTTLE DRIVER Georgene L:

Thanks, Sue . Heard from Mr. Collins, Sammie’s new daddy. He sounds like he’s doing just great. What a wonderful thing to be a part of. And it went so smoothly! Not like poor Posey’s ordeal, but I guess it just happens that way sometimes. But her story’s a happy ending, too. Thanks for all you do.
Georgene
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#367 CHIQUITA BANANA (Robo Drawf Hamster) Brunswick, ME - El Paso, TX
CHIQUITA BANANA, a female all of 2 oz in size, began her odyssey with her owner Sarah M in Brunswick. Sarah, graduating from the university there, wanted to bring her pet home to El Paso.  However, the airlines wouldn't let her take the little gal on the plane.  Met near Auburn, ME, by Driver Susan M, Sarah got lost and had a very hard time finding the truck stop.
Ensconced in a Yellow Bus, about 4" wide x 4" high x 8" long, with 4 moving wheels, Chiquita traveled with Susan around the East Coast until she went home to Florida for a few days.  Eventually, the travelers made their way to Texas, but not as far as El Paso.
Picked up in Waco by Driver/Layover Home Sue W, Chiquita was ably cared for by Sue's 10 year old granddaughter, Maya, at the same time she cared for her two Guinea Pigs.
Finally, drivers started being in the right areas.  One driver was tentatively planning to pick up Chiquita Banana around the weekend.  Then it was learned Chris would be in Fort Worth on Tuesday headed straight for El Paso.
Chris reports Sarah and her father, Nicolas, woke her up as she slept parked on the street outside her customer Wednesday morning.  Sarah couldn't wait any longer for her pet and just had to get there early.  Chris reports Sarah was very excited but Chiquita Banana didn't want to come out of her Bus.
One interesting note is these little drawf hamsters only have a life span of 2-3 years.  So at 1-1/2 years, Chiquita Banana could be considered a senior pet.
Operation Roger Drivers Susan M, Sue W, and Chris L pu 5/13/09 del 6/23/09
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#366 PEACHES (Boxer) Ellijay, GA - Little Rock, AR
 Peaches, a 9 y/o female about 65# was rescued from a shelter and boarded at an Ellijay vet until a volunteer, Connie R, could drive about 1.5 hours from her home to Ellijay to get Peaches and take her to meet Driver Bob F in Atlanta.
Bob reported Peaches reminded him of his own Boxer at home, Naya, in temperament. Little Joe, Bob's Puggle traveling companion, thought he had a new girl friend. Peaches, however, wasn't interested.
In the overnight trip, Peaches slept at the end of the bunk near Bob's feet. It was discovered while at the vet that Peaches had an over-active thyroid and needed a pill a day. During the trip, Peaches would stand between the seats and look at Bob. He knew that was also Naya's way of telling him she needed to go out. That area is where Little Joe likes to lay while the truck is moving.
At one point, both dogs tried to get into Little Joe's crate, at the same time. The new owner, Sandra C, met them in Tallulah, LA.  She looked at the slight injury to Peaches and seemed to think a mole may have been scrapped off. Sandra and a friend had driven down from Little Rock, AR, to get Peaches.
Operation Roger Driver Bob F pu 5/19/09 - del 5/20/09
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WE RECEIVED THIS E-MAIL:
From: Sandra Clement bxrluv51@gmail.com
Tuesday, June 2, 2009, 6:49 AM

Hi Sue,

#365 CHEYENNE (Rhodesian Ridgeback) Houston, TX - Phoenix, AZ
CHEYENNE, a 70# 3 y/o female, began her travels in Houston. Rescuer Celia R, of the Rhodesian Ridgeback Rescue, Kilgore, TX, drove down to Houston to pick up this big girl in order to meet Driver Terri T near Longview. Terri and Cheyenne, along with Terri's own two furry companions went East before making their way West to AZ.  Terri will be adding her story here soon.
Operation Roger Driver Terri T pu 5/12/09 - del 5/19/09
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We received this e-mail from the Driver Terri

Thursday, May 21, 2009 3:07 AM

From: "Terri T" To: operationroger01@yahoo.com
Cheyenne was a 3 yr old Rhodesian Ridgeback. She was transported from Houston to Longview, where I picked her up. She was bound for Phoenix and she was delivered in the timely manner. She was what I called a “Gentle Giant.” Her wet nose kisses were the best, especially when she was happy. She was very skeptical and nervous for the first 3 days. But she soon warmed up to Oliver, Kami and I. Kami in the beginning was iffy on a dog that weighed over 65 lbs, but by the end of the journey Cheyenne, Oliver and Kami (my two pups) became real good dog friends.

Our journey started in Longview and proceeded to MacClenny, Florida where we made our delivery. We then picked up in Leesburg, Florida bound for Ocheleta, Oklahoma. It was soon after that delivery that I promised Cheyenne that I would get her to Phoenix so she could endure a new life, a new meaning, a new love for humans and a forever home.We arrived in Tucson the day before I was supposed to deliver Cheyenne to Cindy in Phoenix. I called up my great friend and she encouraged me to bring Cheyenne and my two dog kids to her home. It was then that I realized that Cheyenne was an awesome dog. Not only did she get along with my two dogs but she also got along great with Belle, a rescued Collie from the Tucson animal shelter. She was able to roam free in the house and Belle showed her how to use the doggy door to the back yard. I believe she’s smarter then the average dog, if you ask me.

Cheyenne was a great passenger, even though she was like a linebacker for the Pittsburgh Steelers each time I opened the door. Trying to hold the leash, hold her and not letting her hurt herself was interesting. The second day she managed to climb down the truck and I had to hoist her up into the truck. The routine worked well and by the end of the journey she knew the color of the truck and where we parked.

Also, Cecilia had told me when I picked her up that she favored men. So to make her stay with me more comfortable each man I saw, I would ask them to pet the Gentle Giant. I then explained the reasons and why she as with me on the truck. Cheyenne was an amazing dog person. She constantly looked at me when a man passed as to say “can you ask him to pet me?” At times I had to laugh because her eyes just peered at me, almost begging.

It’s amazing how something so huge, with a huge heart, can make a person’s day so peaceful and serene.  I truly believe that animals help heal a broken heart, a lost soul and a wounded memory of times before.
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#364 BUDDY / BEAU (Bassett) Hattiesburg, MS - Albuquerque, NM
   BUDDY, 38# male Bassett began his travels in Hattiesburg with Sally and her husband who drove him to Pearl, MS, to meet Driver Nancy R. Enroute Buddy and Nancy stopped for a few minutes in Ft. Worth, TX, to offload some Operation Roger items to Sue W before heading on West. In Albuquerque, Buddy was met by his new "Pop" Chris who is thrilled with him.
Buddy was loveable and just an absolute darlin' according to Nancy.
Operation Roger Driver Nancy R pu 5-15-09 and del 5/16/09
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WE RECEIVED THIS E-MAIL:

Sunday, May 17, 2009 7:26 AM

#362 ZEB (Catahoula Leopard) Bartlesville, OK - Asheboro, NC
 #362 ZEB (Catahoula Leopard) Bartlesville, OK - Asheboro, NC
ZEB, a 2 mo 30# puppy Catahoula Leopard went from the Bartlesville HS to foster care with Cheryl, to a car ride of his young life. Zeb and a volunteer met Driver Chris L in Venita, OK, while she was enroute back home from a vacation. Two days later, ZEB met his forever family when they came to Chris' home near Butler, TN.
Jan, his new "Mom" was so excited to see him and finally get to hold and hug on him. But, ZEB was confused, as would be expected. He had semi-bonded with Chris and kept coming back to her looking for reassurance.  It won't take him long though to bond with his new family.
Operation Roger Driver Chris L pu 5/9/09 del 5/11/09
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WE RECEIVED THE FOLLOWNG E-MAIL:
From: Jan Hinson Sent: Sunday, August 02, 2009 9:05 PM
To: operationroger01@yahoo.com  Subject: Zeb 

 #361 GRETCHEN (Doxie) Carthage, TX - Tucson, AZ
GRETCHEN, a 10 y/o Female 15# Doxi was surrendered by her owner after he was not being able to care for her properly. Scared of her new surroundings, Gretchen did not do well in the shelter. However, once she was removed from that environment, taken to the vet for her health certificate and shots, she responded well to being handled.
Driver Nancy R picked her up in Greenwood, LA, enroute to CA and added her to the Tortiseshell cat she had put on board in FL. Nancy said Gretchen looked at the cat a moment and then ignored her. Gretchen was delivered to her new home in Tucson without any problems and was a perfect pet while on board. She spent most of the time wrapped up in a blanket. She would poke her head out every so often to look around before being like a turtle and ducking bck inside.
Operation Roger Driver Nancy R pu 4/29/09 del 5/1/09
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 #360 CASSIE (Tortiseshell Cat) Tallahassee, FL - Goodyear, AZ
CASSIE, a 4 y/o Female quickly discovered her life changed when she managed to escape from the car while moving to AZ by accidently pressing the automatic button which lowered the window. As cats will, she quickly ran for cover, and with all the noise of the truck stop, wouldn't come to the calls of her family.
The family stayed in Tallahassee two days trying to find her. A local rescue was contacted and was able to find her almost a month later. Sharon, from the rescue, went out three days in a row to look for her. On that third day she saw a cat walking across the fuel island and yelled "Cassie!.\" The cat turned and looked at her. Sharon said "I can't believe I found you," and Cassie came right to her.

Driver Nancy R picked up Cassie on her way to CA. Nancy reports she rode well and tolerated the little Doxi Nancy picked up in TX as both were going to AZ. Needless to say, Nancy made sure Cassie was crated whenever her doors were opened. They were met in Phoenix by a very grateful young lady, Terry.
Operation Roger Driver Nancy R pu 4/12/09 del 5/1/09
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#358 AVOCADO & #359 ONION (Domestic Pet Rats) Pasadena, CA - Portland, OR
AVOCADO (Burmese "top-ear"-ears towards the crown of the head) and ONION (Siamese dumbo-ears at the sides of the head) both males about 1# each were picked up in Pasadena by Driver Mike W. Mike, quite a jokester, had quite a good time with these two boys.
In all seriousness, he told SeRena S, the receiver, he had trouble with them while going over the Grapevine Mountains in CA and his son had to give them CPR. At first, SeRena was very concerned and then realized Mike was teasing her. Mike did learn Avocado would nip his finger whenever he had to move his cage. Mike thought Avocado was trying to bite then realized he never bit hard enough to break the skin. Mike learned fast the ways of these little guys and that the nip was merely a “love bite.” He also told SeRena he had discovered if he called “guacamole” both would come running toward the food dish. Again, she chided him for teasing her.
Mike went above and beyond to deliver these two boys. As SeRena didn’t have access to a vehicle, he arranged to get close to her. She rode her bike to his location, only to have the bike develop a flat. She had to walk home carrying the cage with her two new charges.
Operation Roger Driver Mike W pu 4/22/09 del 4/26/09
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We received this Email:
From: SeRena
To: operationroger01@yahoo.com
Date: Thursday, April 23, 2009, 11:27 PM
Awe, of course - I really, really appreciate Mike's kindness - he seems like a really gentle person, and he has been wonderful over the phone every time. He obviously has a light heart and a lot of patience. I don't know if I could have expected anybody nicer. Also to mention, a lot of folks have hang ups about rats- rats have a stereotype that needs to be overlooked when interacting with them, and few people see through the "plague-carrying-dirty-monster" veil to see what kind of wonderful little animals they can really be, and it means a lot that the folks at Operation Roger didn't bat an eye about it.
Avocado is tentatively the Burmese "top-ear"(ears towards the crown of the head) boy- his coloring is a little bit like the inside of an over-ripe avocado. Onion is tentatively the Siamese dumbo(ears at the sides of the head) boy, because he looks like a big round onion(!). They may go through a name change depending on their personalities, I'll have to see. I have included pictures, just in case.
As far as I know, they are both sweet, happy, bouncy ratty boys. They should be curious and playful, and a little lazy. Mike says they have been being good- and I'm so excited to further meet them when they arrive! Their foster said they were both very enjoyable, fun little boys.
If it's of any help, a few other folks have been following this "story", as I posted a little blurb about it on a forum.
***
Here are some of their responses to Operation Roger:
"That is too cool!"
"Whoa, I wish I'd known about this when I was driving. That's awesome! Good luck, can't wait to see pictures!"
(In response to the comment above): no kidding! I would have been all over this as a driver. 
(In response to my post): Thank you for posting this. I wasn't aware of Operation Roger, but now I can pass this info on to all my friends who are still out there driving. I know they'd all love to help. (and Kudos to you for posting here!)
***
I also put forward the link for Op-Roger to Tiffany Smith (the receiver(?) for Millie) when I saw a Craigslist ad she had posted, requesting assistance. Eventually I received this reply from her, about Millie :
GOOD NEWS!!!  Operation Roger called me yesterday and is bringing her back to me as we speak!  Heather Hines from Indigo Rescue pulled her last night and she is on her way home.  Should be here by Friday!
I WANT TO THANK EVERYONE FOR HELPING ME GET HER BACK HOME!  I DON'T KNOW HOW I CAN THANK YOU ENOUGH!
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 #357 MILLIE (Pitt Bull Terrier) Hillsboro, OR - Dixon, IL

Mille, a 2 y/o 42# female began her trip from Hillsboro after having been dumped in the Hillsboro shelter’s parking lot. Heather H, Indigo Rescue, pulled Millie and met Driver Brad M at a Portland truck stop.

Brad in turn met Driver Robert M in West Haven, UT. Brad reports Millie withstood the trip quite well. Robert related she preferred the floorboard of his 6-wheel pickup over the passenger or rear seats. During the first night she was with Robert, Millie needed to go out. Robert, who uses a wheel chair, said all was well until she decided she liked the grass on the other side of the parking lot and headed there, pulling him along. Now Robert is a big man so there was really no danger here but he was certainly laughing about the ride.

One morning she got up and looked at him and then came toward him. He petted her and then she went to the floor of the back seat. At one rest area Robert picked up his cane to use instead of the wheel chair and Millie cowered like she thought he was going to hit her.

Met in Tinley Park, IL, by Bob N, a humane investigator, Millie is to be returned to the Indigo Rescue in Oregon.

Operation Roger Drivers Brad M and Robert M pu 4/21/09 del 4/26/09

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 #356 SCOOTER (Miniature Schnauzer) W. Des Moines, IA - Sidney, NE

SCOOTER, a blind 2 y/o male 23# Miniature Schnauzer began his short trip in Des Moines from his foster “Mom” Doris. Driver Dan W was expecting a snappy, snarling dog since he was blind but was pleasantly surprised when Scooter was a very nice, calm, laid back little dog. Doris said Scooter was very thin when he came to her. Dan described him as very rounded.

Except for having to be the “seeing eye human” to make sure Scooter didn’t run into curbs and other objects, he was a normal dog with a terrific sense of smell. He knew where his Kibbles were and the sound the plastic bag it was in. Dan said he did have to make sure Scooter was near a building or a tree he could lean against when he peed.

When it was time for Scooter to go back into his crate, Dan would tap about three times on it and Scooter would go in.

The rescue receiver, Tamara, met them in Sterling, CO. She plans to take Scooter to the Colorado State University in Ft. Collins to see if Scooter’s sight can be restored.

Operation Roger Driver Dan W pu 4-11-09 del 4-12-09.

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 #354 BUGSY & #355 NANUSHKA (Border Collies) Laredo, TX - Colorado Springs, CO
Bugsy and her sister Nanushka began their trip in Mexico after being rescued by Kelly K, Save A Mexican Mutt, who arranged for them to be driven to Albquerque, NM.
Team Drivers Mike and Cindy G picked them up in Albquerque early in the morning and took them as far as Laveta, CO. The new family met the team there and took them on to their new home in Colorado Springs.
Team Drivers Mike & Cindy G pu 4/7/09 - del 4/7/09
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 #353 ROTTIE/BETSY (Rottweiller) Pikeville, KY - Datil, NM
ROTTIE renamed BETSY, a 1 y/o 50# female, came from the Pike County Animal Shelter enroute to the Feathers and Fur Animal Rescue in New Mexico.
Shortly after Driver Nancy R picked up Betsy in London, Nancy noticed Betsy was not well and suspected she had parasites. Nancy worked her way toward Florida where she could take Betsy to her vet. There she learned Betsy did have heart and hook worms, an ear infection and was not spayed, although the application indicated she was. We were not informed ahead of time of any of these problems.
Now for the good news. Betsy didn’t make it to New Mexico. That’s good news? Yep. Nancy had told friends all about Betsy and her problems. They wanted to see Betsy and when they did, they immediately fell in love. Arrangements were made with both the sending and receiving rescues, approvals obtained, and now Betsy has a new home with about 15 acres to run and play with four other Rotties, one pointer mix, and nine goats and six cattle to harass. At one point, Betsy eased up to this strange looking bovine who looked at her and mooed. Nancy, who was watching all this, said Betsy jumped at least 3 inches off the ground, turned, all in one motion, and headed lickety split to the house, leaving no grass unturned. Nancy left Betsy happily playing with her new friend Olsa.
Operation Roger Driver Nancy R pu 3/29/09 del 4/06/09
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 #352 RUSTY (Beauceron) Reno, NV - Woodbine, MD
RUSTY #352 a 65# 8.5 y/o male had been in the NV Humane Society shelter since August 2008. Marc P from the shelter drove Rusty about half way down to Las Vegas to meet Mary M who kept him overnight. Mary realized something was wrong with Rusty and arranged to take him to a local vet. When Drivers Mike & Cindy G arrived to pick him up, they discovered he needed to be on antibiotics due to a bladder infection. They took Rusty to Denver to meet Driver Dan W who kept Rusty four days at his home until he left for Maryland.

Dan left for a few days for work around CO. While gone, Jann, his wife, and Rusty would curl up together on the couch. At one point, Dan called in to learn Rusty was sound asleep on the couch, on his back, legs up, with his head on a cushion. Jann said Rusty didn’t get into anything. She took him to a friend’s house and put their Jack Russell and Rusty together in the back yard. They played and played. Upon reaching home, he went upstairs and straight to the bed.

Then Rusty began to refuse food, especially any food which had his medication inside. Dan tried cheese, butter, bananas, cottage cheese, pears, apples, bread, peanut butter, everything his own dog would eat in a heart beat. Rusty would gingerly take a nibble, very gently, quite daintily. Dan would slip a pill inside and Rusty would turn up his nose. Finally, Dan called the receiver, Renee, who said to give him raw hamburger or deli turkey. That did the trick.

When talking with Renee, she mentioned the Las Vegas vet reported Rusty had e-coli in his urine. Not understanding and immediately thinking the worse, Dan called Sue W at the office of Operation Roger. She also could just imagine not only Dan’s house and truck being infected but also Mike & Cindy G’s truck. Dan called the Las Vegas vet to learn this was of no concern as it was the bladder infection and not the contagious type.

One night while going across country Rusty started winning. Thinking Rusty was just lonely, Dan groggily patted the bed. Rusty jumped up, but still wined. He began to gently touch Dan’s arm, over and over, until he got Dan up. Once out, Rusty did his thing and quickly went back to the truck and bed. How quickly these pets do train us humans.

Rusty met his new “Mom” Renee in Woodbine, MD, where he will live on an 80 acre farm with three other Beaucerons. Dan reports he actually was sad to see Rusty go. Another driver who fell in love with his transport!
Operation Roger Team Drivers Mike & Cindy G and Driver Dan W pu 3/26/09 del 4/5/09
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 #351 KOBEE (Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen) Fargo, ND - Nashville, TN
KOBEE a 2-3 y/o 22# male escaped the floods in Fargo, ND, with the help of Driver Debra H. Picked up from rescuer Kish, For the Love of Dogs, Debra quickly fell in love. Her three companions, Brittney, Savannah, and Luke, merely tolerated the intruder knowing he was temporary. As long as he was being touched, Kobee didn't care what was done to him. He was very laid back.
The day before Kobee was to be delivered, Debra made a point to tell the trio Kobee would be at his new home the next day. She says they immediately perked up and their body language said they knew exactly what she had said.
During the trip, Debra came back to the truck to find blood on the seat and floor.
Somehow Kobee had broken a nail. Debra put medicine, gauze, an old sock, and a plastic bag on the foot. Kobee didn't mind it at all. However, Savannah, a Shih Tzu, not wanting to be outdone and apparently wanting the extra TLC, broke her nail on a piece of linoleum by the door the next day.
While playing with Kobee, Debra discovered some stitches remaining from Kobee's neutering two months earlier. He laid on his back and let her pull them out.
New Mom Katy was absolutely thrilled and in love on sight when she picked him up in Knoxville,TN.
Operation Roger Driver Debra H pu 3/27/09 del 4/4/09
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 #350 FRED (Golden Lab) Brandon, FL - Frederick, MD
FRED, a 9 y/o male was 57# when he was surrendered to a Florida shelter on December 29, 2008. A couple of weeks later, the original owner, Robert R, now in Maryland, was successful in finding Fred after he had left him in the care of a friend. Unable to return to Florida to retrieve Fred, Robert was told about Operation Roger. Robert was a basket case when he found he would probably lose Fred. In fact, Fred was accidentally adopted out on a Friday. On Monday, with the assistance of Susan from the shelter explaining to the adopter the situation, the lady graciously forfeited the adoption so Robert could have his dog.
We worked closely with the shelter and Robert to find a driver who could transport. Bobbie P, a Layover Home, was able to secure his release into her care and housed him in her motor home for about two weeks until Driver Nancy R could get to Plant City.
Once on the truck, Fred, now 78#, didn't sleep or rest while the truck was moving. He would go from the bunk to the floor to the seat constantly. At one point, while Nancy was getting loaded at a shipper on the Indian River, she took Fred over to the docks and both enjoyed the warm air and scenery. She warned him he had better enjoy all this because where he was going he would need a jacket.
Fred and Nancy met Shuttle Driver Robert H in Jessup, MD. Robert took Fred to his office at the Humane Society of Rockville until the end of the day. He then drove on to Frederick, MD, to meet Fred's master, Robert R. Fred’s travels took him about 1200 miles.
Operation Roger Team Leader Nancy R, Layover Home Bobbie P, Shuttle Driver Robert H. pu 3/12/09 - del 3/26/09
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  #349 MICKEY (Papillon) Elizabethtown, KY - Newport Beach, CA
MICKEY, a 10-12# Papillon, 3-5 y/o male had to be left behind when his owner, Laura L of Tiny Paws Rescue, had to move to CA for health reasons.
Normally, it is hard to get any pet on I-65 in KY, a North-South road, going East or West. However, the Mid-America Truck Show (aka MATS) was held in Louisville March 19-21 and truckers from all over the country and abroad come to it, as did Team Drivers Mike & Cindy G.
Diane M drove Mickey up from Elizabethtown about mid-morning Sunday and met with the drivers at the Papa Johns parking lot. Mickey was very shy and timid and really overwhelmed at all the activity. We all had to laugh at one point when the driver's 3-legged cat, Votto, decided to park himself on top of Mickey's crate. Now Votto would make at least two of Mickey, or so it seemed as we peered into his crate and he looked backed at us with big round, fearful eyes.
The driver's report Mickey was very sweet and quiet all during his trip across country. He apparently remembered Laura but, once again, seemed overwhelmed when several women and children arrived to pick him up. They said Laura was very happy to get him.
Operation Roger Team Drivers Mike & Cindy G pu 3/22/09 del 3/25/09
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We received this E-mail:
Friday, March 27, 2009 8:57 AM
From: "Diane Metzgar"
To: operationroger01@yahoo.com
I just want everyone to know that Operation Roger is a Class Act! Mike and Cindy treated Mickey as if he were their own dog from the minute I arrived in Louisville KY and the whole time he was with them. They called everyday with their location and progress report. Mike and Cindy went above and beyond to make me, Laura, the adoptive family and especially Mickey feel comfortable through this transport. I would recommend Operation Roger to anyone and especially Mike and Cindy Gott!!!

Operation Roger;
YOU ROCK!!!!!!!!!
Diane Metzgar, Misfits Rescue For The Paws
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1/2/12 from facebook
I would like to thank Operation Roger, Sue and drivers Mike & Cindy for transporting my Mickey from Kentucky to CA nearly 4 years ago after I had moved here for health reasons. Mickey actually went to my friend of 50 years but he was so unhappy not being with me that a few months later he came back to live with me and we are both very happy. He was rescued from a mill where he was a stud dog for several years and we closed the mill down. I must say, I thank you quietly every single day so when I saw your page I wanted to let you know Mickey is doing great and is the highlight of my day. I was so happy to have him back with me. 
Thank you always, Laura Sturchio Lemke, Tiny Paws of Kentucky (in CA).
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   #348 BRIE (Pharoh Hound/Canaan Dog) N. Las Vegas, NC - Portland, OR
BRIE, a female 12 y/o 30# Pharoh Hound/Canaan Dog Mix began her journey in N. Las Vegas with Amy W who took Brie to the Best Friends Animal Sanctuary in Knab, UT, on March 14. They, in turn, brought Brie up to Salt Lake City to meet Driver Brad M 3/21, who in turn served as a Layover Home over the weekend before placing her on board his truck and headed for Portland where Brie met her new "Mom" Ina.
Brad reported Brie, who is deaf, enjoyed investigating his property and got along very well with his dogs. Laughing, Brad said he found himself talking to Brie only to have to remember she couldn't hear him. At one point, at home, he called to Brie to return to him and, of course, she didn't. Brad had to run in front on Brie to get her to see him.
Operation Roger Driver Brad M pu 3/20/09 del 3/24/09
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WE RECEIVED THIS E-MAIL:
Date: Friday, May 22, 2009, 1:18 PM

  #346 CUTTY & #347 BETSY (Dumbo Rat) Salem, MA - Jacksonville, FL
CUTTY & BETSY (aka Ethel & Lucy), tiny 8 oz female domestic Dumbo Rats began their trip in Salem, MA, with Betsy W. Picked up in Andover by Driver Nancy R who was just a little apprehensive about taking on not just one but two Rats.
Encourage by the shipper, Betsy, to let them sit on her shoulder and snuggle up against her neck, Nancy's reply was "I don't think so." No amount of teasing by her fellow drivers at Operation Roger could change Nancy's mind. Getting brave while enroute, she did let them out of the crate onto her bunk for a little while before she went to sleep. They would go right to the edge of the bed and look over before scurrying back to their "human" to do a "people check." Nancy decided to play a little and devised a playground for them in the form of a ziplock box, a small cardboard box, and a tunnel made from her blanket. While Cutty waited outside, Betsy would run around to one end and through the maze. Once she came out the other end, Cutty would dart inside. They played like this for quite some time. Gee, at least Nancy didn't have to take them outside for a walk!! No leashes, no walks in the cold; this could get addictive.
They are called Dumbo Rats because of their very large ears. They were both black with a white underbelly and pink nose, ears, feet, and tail.
The movement of the truck would put them to sleep, like so many of our pets do as we travel. The other thing neat about this duo is they would bathe themselves in their bowl each time Nancy gave them water which she did three times a day.
Nancy was met in Lake City, FL, by the receiver Sherry and her husband, Brian W, also a trucker.
Operation Roger Driver Nancy R pu 3/12/09 - del 3/14/09
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Email received 3/15/09:
I want to thank you so much for the transport of my rattie. Nancy did a wonderful job and all arrived safe and sound!!!!!! I have been spreading the word to all the rattie clubs I belong to. Just trying to send a little more business your way. You were a godsend because I dont know of any other way to get ratties from point a to point b. They made it just fine from Salem Ma. to near Jax. Fl. we had to meet Nancy and pick them up but that was no big deal. I cannot thank you enough. Everyone was so helpful and professional. It has been just amazing. Nancy did a great job of caring for them during the trip. Again I cannot thank you enough! God bless you!!! Another success story! Scritches Sherry and The Girls
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Email received 3/15/09:
YOU GUYS AND GALS RULE! Pet Rattie lovers love YOU! Thanks so much!
LONDA MARSH-MCCULLOUGH
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#345 PANDORA/WILMA (Greyhound) Orlando, FL - York, PA
PANDORA, a female 3 y/o 60# ex-racing Greyhound waited three months on our Pet Board before we were able to pick her up. Several drivers during that time had tried but were unable to make the connections. During this time, Pandora went to prison. Yep, prison.  She became the responsibility of an inmate in one of Florida's correctional facilities. So when the time came for her transport, Pandora had to be sprung out of jail by her rescuer, Carol B.
Driver Terri T knew she wasn't going directly to Pennsylvania on her next trip but figured she could get there in a couple of loads. As the freight would have it, Terri, along with her two traveling companions Oliver and Kami, and Pandora/Wilma had completed their next delivery when they were sent to ... Washington ... state that is. Wilma is apparantly Pandora's original name so that is what she will be called.
Terri reports Wilma was extra-ordinarily obedient, walked right with her, and learned how to be a dog thanks to Oliver and Kami. The receiver, Judi K, a foster for greyhounds in PA, will be getting a very special lady.
Terri will be telling Wilma's story here very shortly. Watch for it.
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We received the following Email from Driver Terry T:
Wilma's Story  Sunday, March 15, 2009 8:40 PM
Hi, I am Wilma. I am a 3 year old Greyhound. I used to race but I retired. I was placed at a nice place for a while and then a trucker name Terri took me to Pennsylvania, where I had a new home. My journeys to Pennsylvania were interesting. Terri never meant for me to go all the way to Washington, but I did. I didn't mind because we walked. Oliver (Terri's puppy) showed me how to be a dog again. He showed me proper ways to sniff trees and grass. Although, he did a lot of sniffing and at times I didn't understand why he sniffed so much. I got to meet a lot of people. They pet me and told me how sleek I looked. That made me happy.  Trucker Terri said I could sleep in her bed. So I made myself at home and I normally just sprawled out. Even at night I would sprawl out, but still gave her room to lay down too. She took good care of me and fed me when I needed fed and walked me when I needed walked. I sometimes told her I didn't want to walk by tugging at that darn thing around my neck. And she always lifted me into the truck carefully so I wouldn't fall. I trusted her a lot when it came to the size of that truck!

But the reason I'm writing this story is not because I wanted to tell you who I am, but more about where I went. I left Carols place in Orlando and met Terri, Kami and Oliver. At first, I wasn't sure what was going on. I was shakey and a little and shy. I suppose all dogs get that way when they're not used to a steady home. I wasn't real familiar with the road but in the truck I felt comfortable. I laid down and slept. We got to our first little resting ground and I got lifted out of the truck and walked. It felt good to walk. The whole time I just glazed up at Terri because I knew she loved me. Some dogs can tell that by the friends they meet.

Oliver at first was so crazy. Terri said that he was a puppy, but even I can't remember jumping and going in circles like him. He would go and sniff and sniff and sniff more. I wasn't sure why he was doing that, I never had the chance to sniff shrubs and grass. I guess I was busy racing and not being a dog. But after a short time, Oliver taught me a little bit about sniffing. He said that he sniffs because he sometimes smells weird things. So I started sniffing with him. He would go into the bushes at times and Terri would let him on the leash. He sometimes would come out with a piece of wood that was taken away from him. Then sometimes he would dig holes. I'm not much of a digger but I did go into the bushes because Terri whispered to me, "go on be a pup." That made me feel good.

I suppose our quest for Pennsylvania started in Florida enroute to Oklahoma, where Terri was supposed to get a load to Pennsylvania. But her receiver denied her load and we had to wait to deliver. I didn't mind that either.Terri knew a perfect spot where we all walked. She took me out in a field and we walked the corners of it. I saw some rabbits that made me jump a little. I kinda miss chasing those around and around. I never could catch those either, sigh!

Then we went to Utah. I sometimes would stand up on the bed and watch the mountains. I never saw so much white stuff in my life. Terri said that it was snow and that I might enjoy playing in it. At first glance of the white powder beneath my paws I wasn't so sure. It was rather cold, but I stuck my nose in a pile of it and it tickled so much that I got excited. Terri walked us in Utah too. In fact, the night we arrived we went for a nice walk. It was a little chilly but when I saw Oliver sniffing at the dirt, I again wanted to sniff too. The next morning we went on another walk. This is where a man stopped and asked if he could pet me. Terri said it was ok and she mentioned that I was a rescue from Gods Greyt's. She also mentioned that Operation Roger helps place animals when they need placed. He was so greatful for organizations like Greyt's and Operation Roger.

Our next load was going to Washington state. The weather turned colder and I didn't want to get out of the truck as much, so Terri made sure I was warm. We got to Washington and delivered her load. It started snowing real bad and Terri was crossing her fingers that it would stop. The next morning there was white stuff all around and we drove real slow to Quincy, Wa. When we arrived there it was sooo nice. We finally walked and we had fun. I saw a little girl who showed us her new puppy. I licked her hand and she smiled real big. I think she liked me just a little.

Our final load was to Pennsylvania, where we met Judy. It was hard to say bye to Oliver, Kami and Terri, but I know I will have a happy home where I will be loved. The whole trip was a long trip, but what greyhound do you know that has traveled 7,000 miles. I am guesstimating and I am not sure that's accurate, but pretty close.
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#343 GEORGE & #344 MARTHA (Mountain Curs) Lexington, KY - Zurich, MT
 GEORGE, a 4 m/o 15# male & MARTHA, his sister, a 4 m/o 15# female, both  Mountain Curs began their trip from a shelter in Morgantown, KY. Their rescuer, Lisa A, drove from Lexington to pick them up and deliver them to Driver Jim F in Nashville, TN.
Jim reports they were a little wrinkle faced like hound, sleek, and a reddish-orange color. George was the more dominate of the two. Martha was more playful and laidback.  Having lost one of his gloves, Jim gave them the other one and they enjoyed playing with it.
Jim took the duo to his home in Logan, UT, where his wife, Valerie, served as our Layover Home.  Originally, a pilot was to take them from Salt Lake City to Zurich, MT, but that arrangement fell through.  A wonderful lady by the name of Jerica V answered the call to help.  She picked up the two pups and took them to Bozeman, MT, where their new "Mom" Holly B picked them up for their final trip home.
Operation Roger Driver Jim F pu 3/2/09 - del 3/12/09
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The following Emails were received:

#342 VALENTINE (Lab X) Murfreesboro, TN - Tucson, AZ
  VALENTINE, a 2 y/o female 65# Lab X waited on our Pet Board 4 months before her whirlwind ride from Murfreesboro to Chattanooga to meet Driver Dave R.
Her owner, Matt M, had to leave her behind with his mother, Carol, when he moved to Arizona in September 2008. Dave was going through Knoxville, TN, when called by Operation Roger and quickly agreed to pick up Valentine. Sue immediately called Carol to see if she could meet Dave in Chattanooga in only two hours.  Let's just say, Carol didn't let any grass grow under her tires as she hustled to get to a truckstop just west of Chattanooga before the driver.
Not unusual, Valentine was unsure of the truck at first.  Dave reports, though, that by the second day, Valentine was jumping into the truck all by herself and soon had Dave quickly trained to respond to her arm nudges or whines whenever she needed a pit stop. Dave said she could get quite vocal about it.
Valentine tickled Dave when she got back in by herself the first time and looked back over her shoulder as if to say "Well, aren't you coming?" Whenever he would get out of the truck to go eat, her nose would be up against the window watching him walk away and not liking being left alone. He did go back at one point to soothe her and she responded well to the reassurance.
In Tucson, when Dave got Valentine out of the truck, she immediately recognized her master, Matt, and ran to him, giving him all kinds of kisses and probably asking, “Where were you? Where have you been?” All in all, Dave reports it was a wonderful reunion of master and dog.
Operation Roger Driver Dave R pu 3/07/09 - del 3/11/09
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#341 STEVE (Beagle/Border Collie) Kirbyville, MO - Oshkosh, WI
STEVE, a 3 mo 10# male began his travel in Kirbyville, MO, with rescuer Linda B.  Picked up in Springfield, MO, by Driver Bob F, Steve quickly settled into trucking life.
Bob's 7 mo Puggle (Pug/Beagle), Little Joe, thought he was in seventh heaven with a playmate.  And play they did. Warned Steve was a little shy, Bob found he was very easy to train. When given a treat, he quickly learned to "give paw."
Bob had prepared Little Joe's crate for Steve and he would go into it. Now, for Little Joe, that was a "time out" place. But, if Steve could go in and come out again, then so could he.  From that point on, the duo made it their play ground.
That night, Bob put Steve into the crate at the foot of his bed. Little Joe laid right by the crate most of the night.
Originally schedule to deliver Steve to Terri, his new "Mom," on Tuesday, Bob was able to make it up to Bolingbrook ,  IL, on Monday, Terri was estatic and made sure she made the connect.  She brought the driver a thank you goodybag and a toy for Little Joe.
Now, for the crowning point of this transport.  Little Joe loved his playmate and didn't like the fact he was now gone. On the bunk, he looked Bob right in the eye ... lifted his leg ... and peed on the bed! which promptly cost him a time out in the crate.
Operation Roger Drive Bob F pu 3/08/09 - del 3/09/09
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FROM FACEBOOK 4-30-10
Terri BrathI just want to say THANK YOU for everything you do!! Thanks to Bob and Little Joe, my puppy was brought from MO to me in WI and I couldn't imagine my life without him!!
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#340 MIJA (Boxer) Congress, AZ - Arabi, LA
 MIJA, a 3 y/o female 65# Boxer from Arabi, LA, has made it back home with the help of driver Nancy R. Mija has quite a story to tell. Her saga started when her owner's husband went gold hunting in AZ and took Mija so she could see the desert. One night he left a trading post in Congress, AZ, only to be involved in an accident eight miles away. In all the commotion, Mija got away.
The next day Mija showed up at the trading post and wandered around for a couple of days before the vendors told the owner about her.  Ed G took Mija into his home and proceeded to call the phone numbers he found on her tags. These calls led him first to Florida and then to Louisiana and finally to Mary B, Mija's owner. Mary contacted a friend, Christiane B, in New York, who filled out the application Operation Roger needed. Then arrangements had to be made to get Mija a new health certificate and her shot records sent to Ed.  All of this took awhile.
Unfortunately, Ed was not able to drive Mija anywhere due to family health problems. We contacted a rescue in Prescott Valley and Georgene L agreed to shuttle Mija. Next, driver Nancy R planned to pick Mija up on a Tuesday on her way out of Yuma, CA. Wouldn't you know, that was the only day Georgene could not transport which left us scrambling to find someone else. While calling around to different rescues to hopefully find someone to help us, Sue W received a call from Ed.  Rosann and Bud H of Alberta, Canada, friends of Ed, overheard the conversation, sized up the problem, and promptly volunteered to transport Mija to meet Nancy.
All was well, until both of Nancy’s shippers in Yuma held her up in loading, which put Nancy about 15 hours behind schedule. Although warned not to start toward Gila Bend until Nancy was loaded, Rosann and Bud were so anxious to help Mija get home, they didn’t wait and had to sit at the meeting location all day in Gila Bend, AZ, before Nancy arrived.  Nancy said the couple were a delight to meet and truly wanted to help.  Without them, the transport would not have taken place at this time.
Mary, who lives near New Orleans, enthusiastically agreed to meet Nancy in Meridian, MS, the closest point along her route. An excited Mary and a friend, Barry, who drove the car, arrived a little early and had to wait for Nancy.  Nancy said Mija went over to Mary, sniffed her, stepped back a couple of steps and looked up into Mary’s face.  Nancy said Mija had a look of disbelief at first and then reality sunk in. Mija’s tail starting wagging and her body wiggling as she realized this was her owner and not some stranger.  Understand many tears were flowing with this reunion of mistress and dog. Nancy said Mija would go between Mary and her, giving kisses.
Operation Roger Driver Nancy R pu 3/04/09- del 3/07/09
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#339 SCARLETT (Pit/Greyhound) E. Sparta, OH - Rochester, NY
SCARLETT, a 4 month female 25# found herself on a rolling big rig. Picked up around Canton, OH, from Denise, by Drivers Kris & Brandy, Scarlett quickly settled into the routine of the truck and went to sleep.  A few hours later, Brandy waited and waited for Scarlett's new owner,Joe, to show up at the agreed upon location and was really getting worried, when it came to light Joe's car started breaking down enroute and he had to return home. This team rose to the occasion and did the unexpected. Kris worked his way as close as he could get, about a mile from Joe's house. Joe even paid for the big rig's toll charge. Scarlett was soon at her new home with her sister whom Joe had adopted earlier.
Team Leaders Kris & Brandy P pu 3/4/09 - del 3/4/09
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#338 NICK (Chihuahua) Spring Hill, FL - Valley Springs, CA
 NICK, a tiny 5# male about 1 year was found abandonded (lost) on Christmas Day by Carlise B. Not able to locate his owner, she decided to send this little guy to her 13 y/o grandson, William, in California.  He has been going through a tough family time and she thought he would enjoy Nick.
Nick sat on our Pet Board for nearly two months before Driver Nancy R was able to pick him up. Usually, she would go straight to California.  Not this time.  The freight kept her on the East coast for nearly ten days before she made it out to Ontario, CA.  There Nancy met with our Layover Home volunteer, Kathy L, who said Nick immediately fell right in with her pack of Ridgebacks. It must have quite a sight to see a 5# Chihuahua tagging along after them.
The next day Kathy drove Nick north to meet Stefan and Dennis. Having read a crosspost put out by our 4-Wheel Team Leader Krystal M, they decided they could add little Nick to their group of Greyhounds they would be taking north.
Now all of this was kept secret from William until the last day when he overheard his mother talking about a package to be delivered and put two and two together. Let's just say there was one happy 13 y/o boy who met his new companion in Stockton on March 4th.  Can't you just imagine those two tucked together in a warm blanket all night??  This is what's it's about folks.
Operation Roger Team Leader Nancy R, Layover Home Kathy L, Rhodesian Ridgeback Rescue, & Laursen Ranch Manager, Stefan and GFFL Volunteer, Dennis, Homestretch Greyhounds.
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#337 TEDDY BEAR (Chihuahua) Hartsell, AL - Clinton, AL
TEDDY BEAR (aka GIZMO), a long haired Chihuahua, 8 weeks, was born January 2, 2009, in Laredo, TX, on Driver Tony H's truck alongside the road, after Tony pulled over in a panic for the birth he wasn't quite expecting to happen just then. This was Maria's, Tony's long-time traveling companion, first birth. According to Tony, this pup was dauntless from the beginning. Even before his eyes were open, he would intentionally take dives off the bunk. He wouldn't stay still during his two month ride across country.
Tony, and his other traveling companion, Tip, also a long haired Chihuahua (but not the father) enjoyed the pup but were very happy to find a loving home for him in Clinton, AL, with an employee Tony knew at a truck stop.
Operation Roger Driver Tony H pu 1/2/09 - del 2/25/09
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#336 LILLY/LEXUS (Sharpei X) Lipon, TX - Derry, NH
LILLY, renamed Lexus has had quite a ride. This tiny 4 month old 20# Sharpei X was born blind and deaf.  Pulled from an Irving, TX, kill shelter by Ginger B, Their All God's Creatures Pit Bull Rescue, Lilly/Lexus became a high priority transport by Team Leader Krystal M, Krystals4Wheelers.
Beginning her trip with a private pilot, she was flown to Little Rock, where she overnighted. From there she traveled by 4-wheel and another layover before finally arriving at her new home in New Hampshire just after midnight. The same day, new "Mom" Kathi took Lilly/Lexus to see the vet for a check up.
The good news, little Lilly/Lexus will be able to have surgery to correct her blindness caused by the third layer over the eyes of newborns retreated.
Team Leader Krystal M arranged all the transport. Pu 2/20/09 Del 2/25/09.
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We wish to thank the following for helping in this transport:
FRIDAY - FEB. 20TH - Garrad Mitchell and Pilots-N-Paws!! Stephenville, TX, - Little Rock, AR - 429 mi/Jessica Lord - Little Rock, AR - Brinkley, AR, - 66 mi/ Kenna Tate, Brinkley, AR, - Memphis, TN - 72.4 mi/OVERNIGHT - Eric Hart, Memphis, TN/SATURDAY - FEB. 21ST - Beth Strong, Memphis, TN, - Jackson, TN - 87.5 mi/Ricky and Dawn Anderson - Jackson, TN, - Dickson, TN (Nashville) - 97.0 mi/Tynya Patton - Dickson, TN, - Bowling Green, KY - 103 mi/Liza Obenshain - Bowling Green, KY, - Elizabethtown, KY - 73.5 mi/Rhonda Gittis - Buckner, KY, - Cincinnati, OH, - 80.6 mi/Keith & Traci! - Cincinnati, OH, - Camden, OH - 55.0 mi & OVERNIGHT/SUNDAY - FEB. 22ND - Keith & Traci! - Camden, OH, - West Jefferson, OH, - 87.8 mi/Liz White! - West Jefferson, OH, - Mansfield, OH -82.5 mi/Carol Spring! - Mansfield, OH, - Medina, OH - 47.0 mi/iane Kastelic - Medina, OH, - Madison, OH - 70.5 mi/JoAnn Schwerthofer! - Madison, OH, - Erie, PA - 62 mi/Karen Rostad !! - Erie, PA, - Batavia, NY, - 134 mi/OVERNIGHT - Emma Morrill!/ MONDAY FEB. 23RD - TC and Pilots-n-Paws!! - Batavia, NY, - Hanscom AFB, Lexington, MA - 415 mi/Kathi Taylor - Hanscom AFB, - Lexington, MA, - Derry, NH, - 42.2 mi
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We received this e-mail from Kathi, the receiver:
Delivered 2/25/09. LILLY/LEXUS went to the vet today to have her check up and eyes looked at. Vet believes she will be able to see and plan surgery next week.
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#335 META (Pit) Romeroville, NM - Walsenburg, CO

META, a female Pit, 1-2 y/o, was found wandering around a truck stop in Romeroville by Team Drivers Mike & Cindy G.  It was obvious to them Meta has recently been separated from a litter of pups because her teats were swollen and needed attention.  They said she was not afraid of the the trucks running which told them she probably had been a trucking dog.  After checking with the truck stop management and posting several flyers, they took Meta with them until they could place her in a foster home in Colorado. 

When they got her into the truck, she immediately jumped upon the passenger seat as if that was her original designated spot.  They think she belonged to a man because she bonded quickly with Mike and essentially ignored Cindy. Once at the foster, Meta saw a vet and is on the road to recovery.  Cindy says Meta is very, very sweet, has a pleasant personality, does not show any aggression toward any animals except cats, and would make a great pet.  She also says they will have Meta vetted and given all her shots.

This is not at all unusual for one of our drivers to resuce an animal is distress.  They all have big hearts and want to help a pet, especially one who so obviously has already been well treated and loved.  We don't know why Meta was seemingly abandoned.

Operation Roger Team Drivers Mike & Cindy G pu&del 2/18/09

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#334 BOOGIE (Beagle X) Scott City, KS - Prague, OK
Boogie, a 20# 3 y/o male found himself in a shelter in the Scott City area where he was scanned.  They found a microchip and contacted the original rescue out of Prague, OK.
Richard P, Silent Angels Rescue, pulled Boogie and met with Driver Phillip R in Dodge City. Phillip and his wife, Desaree, cared for Boogie overnight at their home and drove him down to Oklahoma City in their personal verhicle where Boogie met Kathy, a volunteer with the original rescue.
Phillip says Boogie was a sweet, very likeable, cuddly pet who snuggled in Desaree's lap as they sat in the back seat all the way to OKC.
Operation Roger Driver Phillip R pu 2/16/09 del 2/17/09
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  #333 TONTO (Rhodesian Ridgeback) Kilgore, TX - San Bernardino, CA
TONTO #333, male 9-12 month old 45# Rhodesian Ridgeback met his ride in Kilgore, TX, from Cecilia R.
All Ridgebacks have a decided aversion to water.  They would prefer to die before getting near water.  Driver Nancy R stopped to get her truck washed and had to wrestle Tonto out of the truck.  She didn’t want to leave him inside the truck because of the sound the water would make hitting the bunk. Even outside the building, the sound of the power washers prevented him from peeing.  Needing to take care of paying for the wash, she staked him outside in the grass.  Inside, she glanced out the window to see him trying to eat his leash to get away.  She ran outside telling him to stop.  Tonto sat down and looked at her innocently as if to say, “What? Me?  I wasn’t doing anything!”

After the truck was ready to go, Tonto refused to walk across the wet pavement.  After Nancy finally got him to the truck, he scrambled inside, headed to the far corner of the bunk and looked at Nancy with the look that said, “Don’t you ever do that to me again.”  Enroute Knowing he needed to potty, she would stop ever so often in a rest area, hoping the rain they had been going through would not start again.  It would, each time and, true to form, Tonto would refuse to get out.  During the rain storm itself, Tonto looked at Nancy so apprehensively, Nancy said, “Hey, I can’t do anything about the sky leaking, ok?”

Rhodesians are known not the bark unless you invade their property.  They had bedded down at a rest area for the night. At 4 a.m. Tonto began jumping back and forth between the seats.  Figuring he needed to go outside, Nancy took him out for potty.  Back inside he sat in the passenger seat to watch outside and Nancy went to sleep.  That is, until he began barking at all the trucks going by the rest area.  She finally had to cover the windows so he would sleep also.

Tonto had had surgery so he had to be given antibiotics.  Celia had provided wet food to mix the meds in with the dry food to cover up the taste.  After feeding him the next morning, he began to pass gas so bad, Nancy said, the paint was peeling off the outside of the truck.  At times, he would even offend himself.  The second morning, figuring the wet food was causing the problem, Nancy mixed the meds in with the dry food only.  All appeared to be well for the rest of the trip.  While waiting on the receiving rescue to arrive, Nancy laid her head on Tonto’s side.  He passed a very bad case of smelly gas. His look was one of  “I don’t feel well.”  Nancy said she would remember Tonto as the farting dog.

Instead of bailing out of transporting other pets after such an experience, Nancy was already planning upon picking up another pet on her return trip.  You just can’t keep a good pet transporter down.
Operation Roger Driver Nancy R pu 2-4-09 del 2-8-09

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 #332 NIBBLES (Dandi Dinmont Terrier) Honaker, VA - Edison, NJ
NIBBLES #332 a cute Dandi Dinmont Terrier, 4 months old, and only 10# was picked up by Driver Chris L in Hillsdale, VA, from Paula D, and joined her own traveling companion, Two Shot.
The two got along fabulously and even at one point were caught kissing.  When Chris stopped for a break, Two Shot went out and did his thing.  Nibbles watched and was quick to figure out she was supposed to do the same.
Met in Carlisle, PA, by her new family, Diana S and her husband and Daughter Diane, 10, who had driven over from Edison, NJ, Nibbles went eagerly to them and the excitement was catching.
Chris said Nibbles was a keeper.  One she would have easily fallen in love with.
Operation Roger Driver Chris L pu 2/5/09 del 2/5/09
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 #331 BRODY/KODA (Keeshond X) Aurora, NE - Merchantville, NJ
 BRODY, renamed KODA, a Keeshond mix, about 18 months, 50# male began his trip in Aurora with Driver Susan M. Arriving to pick him up, Susan was surprised to be met not only by the shipper, Judy H, but also by a reporter and photographer from the Aurora newspaper seeking pictures and an interview.
Susan's two little traveling companions, Kelly and Tinky, joyfully welcomed Koda on board with excited barking (talking).  All was well until the second night when Koda slipped out of his harness when taken out for a walk at a rest area in preparation for going to bed.
He stayed in the area but neither Susan, two other drivers, nor could a state trooper entice Koda into grabbing range.  The officer even opened up the back door of her squad car hoping he would jump in.  No luck.  They even enticed him to the door of the building with food but he stopped with his paws on the doorsill and wouldn’t move.  Susan attempted to grab Koda’s fur at this point but he shied away.
Having already called the receiver, Sandra C, and Operation Roger, Sue W, about the situation, Susan was feeling heartsick.  Unable to sleep well knowing Koda was outside, she awoke when her own pets let her know he was near the truck.  Slipping on her wet shoes and clothes, she got out.  This morning Koda was hungry and responded to the food in Susan’s hand.  He finally came close enough for her to grab him and get the leash and collar back on him.  Susan said Brody's body language was "Ok. Game's over." We learned later Brody/Koda had a history of slippiing his harness.  Something we had not been told to be on the alert for.
Operation Roger Driver Susan M pu 1/31/09 del 2/2/09
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The following report is from Susan, the driver, and is found on myyango.com under Aunt Susan's Blog:

Friday, February 6, 2009
The one that "ALMOST" got away!!
I picked up Brody aka Koda in Nebraska last week. He is a Chow/Shepherd/Keeshon mix, about a year and half old. He is a rescue dog. His new adopted family lives in New Jersey and were eagerly awaiting his arrival. One dark night, I stopped at a rest area, after driving over 600 miles that day. I took him out for his nightly walk, and he slipped his harness and got away from me. There was snow on the grounds, and it was very cold out. He was all happy and excited and ran all around the rest area. Every time I got closer, he jumped away. Playing with me. He thought this was fun. Other drivers tried to help me catch him. I even brought out Kelly on her leash to lure him in closer so I can grab him, and it didn't work. He played with Kelly happily, but wouldn't let me get close enough to him to grab him. I tried throughout the night to catch him. I didn't want to give up on him. I didn't want to drive away and leave him there. I had a job to do, I had to get to my delivery in New Jersey for my trucking job. I called Sue, the founder of Operation Roger and left her a message. And I called Koda's new family in New Jersey, and Sandra just said she would pray for us she said I should try and get some sleep. I laid down for a few hours but couldn't really sleep. I heard my dogs Kelly & Tinky barking at him, as he ran and played around people that tried catching him too. He had his collar on with his tag for his new owners.

Finally, at 5:30am I put my shoes on, jacket, hat, and grabbed his leash and bucket of food to try and catch him again. This time I tried a different tactic. I put food in my right hand, squatted down like a baseball catcher, and had the leash in my left pocket, and had my left hand open. I swung my hands around in a windmill type motion, around and around, and he loved that. He would put his mouth trying to catch my hand with the food in it. He was getting a bit tired and hungry also. He got close enough and I grabbed his collar!! Victory!! His demeanor when I grabbed him was.... "Game Over" and he relented. I grabbed his bucket of food and started walking him back to my truck. Again, he started going backwards and wanting out of his collar. I grabbed him with both arms, lifted him (he weighed about 50lbs), and put him in my truck. He was not going to get loose from me again. That was a nightmare. I was so afraid that he would run into the interstate and get ran over and killed. He stayed in the rest area and knew that I was there, in my truck.

After he was back in the truck, he drank alot of water. He was very thirsty. He then layed down on the floor and slept soundly for a few hours. I was so relieved, that I could finally lay down and relax and try and get some sleep before I had to hit the road, for another 600 mile day!!. Sandra and I made arrangements for them to pick up Koda that evening, superbowl sunday, in Carlise, Pa. They drove about 3hrs to get there, and I drove all day and we met at about 11:00 pm. I listened to the Superbowl game on my satellite radio as I drove through the mountains in Pennsylvania. It helped keep me company and keep me awake. Sue, founder of Operation Roger, also said some prayers to keep me awake after that long, dark, dog chasing, then catching, night!! The following day, monday, I delivered to the customer in New Jersey for my trucking job. Before I went to get my next load, I had breakfast with Sandra at the truck stop in New Jersey. We had a nice chat. It was fun. And that is the story of Koda, the one that "almost" got away!!
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The following email was received from Koda's new family:

Monday, March 9, 2009 3:07 PM
Dear Everyone at Operation Roger,
First let me extend my sincere apology for the very late thank you.  I am writing about how you have helped create one big happy family!  Our new pet is Koda (known to you as Brody). We found him on petfinders but he was in Nebraska and we are in New Jersey.  I especially became discouraged as I checked into the air freight charges to bring him to us.  After several googles on transporting pets, all of a sudden I found you, an answer to our prayers.
Koda  arrived Super Bowl Sunday in Harrisburg Pa.  We originally were going to meet in Swedesboro NJ, however Koda's  wonderful driver had a rather harrowing experience with him in Jolliet, Ill and we both agreed she needed to no longer worry about him getting away and she also needed a good night's sleep.  Harrisburg is a quick 2 hr. trip for us and we were anxious to repay Sue (his driver) for the awful evening she had with him the first night. 
About Sue, what a wonderful new friend we have.  We are in phone and email contact and will most likely remain lifelong friends.  So not only did we find the new pet of our dreams, but we made a great new friend as well.
How can I ever express my gratitude for what you gave us and for what all of you do.  I will be signing up for the monthly donation but it will not be until end of April, when I get my part time job back. Who writes the success stories? It appears the drivers do that?  We have some very cute pics as well.  Sue took several when she picked Koda up and also when we met him.  I am certain you would enjoy them.  I imagine Sue has also told you about the local newspaper doing an article about Operation Roger taking Koda to NJ.  They took a cute pic as well.
Let me know if there is anything else I can do.  Words simply can not adequately express my family's gratitude.  Koda is a 47 lb lap dog who was apparently abused at some point demonstrated by terror any time someone lifts their hand in the air with an object such as back scratcher or grocery flier rolled up and lifted out of a bag.  He is also afraid of coming in doors, and is often carried in by one of us.  But little by little and day by day we can see the trust building.  With four of us to love him all day and night it won't take long.
I hope there is a way that this thanks can be extended to all of your volunteers.  There are so many unsung heros in this world and they need to know they are appreciated. 
Have a blessed day and let me know what if anything I can send about Koda. 
Love,
Sandy, Ariana, Adam and Koda!
ps  we are seriously thinking about applying to transport for  you.  And hopefully after our two dogs are out of puppyhood and settled in a bit I would love to consider the layover help.
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#330 LAKOTA (Alaskan Malamute) Phoenix, AZ-Linwood, MI
LAKOTA #330 a Grey and White Alaskan Malamute, male, about 53# originated in the Lancaster, CA, area shelter. He was transferred to the LA County Animal Control for neutering and placement. He was then transferred to Diane with TARescue, Phoenix, AZ, for transporting to his new adoptive home in Linwood, MI, with Heather S and Linda A.
Driver Merlin M picked Lakota up in Phoenix and soon knew he was in over his head in dealing with Lakota's needs. Lakota was extremely skittish, fearful, and unable to control his body functions while in the truck. Unable to deal with Lakota, he made it to El Paso, TX, where he went to the Animal Rescue League of El Paso. Unable to take Lakota in, the director, Loretta H, referred Merlin to another rescue/shelter. Team Leader Nancy R, was contacted and went into action to resolve the situation. The driver back tracked his route in an attempt to reach the new location but was stopped by a 26' length restriction sign. He was over 70'. With that facility closing at about the time he arrived, Merlin returned to the original location and arrived there about 15 minutes before it also closed. By this time nearly 4 hours had elapsed. Nancy arranged for Loretta to stay with Lakota until someone from the other facility could arrive. Merlin had to leave to make his next delivery.
Lakota spent two nights at that facility until Driver Dale D and his co-driver could arrive about 5:30 a.m. to pick him up. Dale was able to confirm everything Merlin had said about Lakota. Dale met LOH Sue W and her granddaughters, Ashleigh and Maya, at a truck stop in Weatherford, TX.
Scared of all noises, especially big trucks, Lakota dove into Sue's pickup front floor board and wouldn't be budged. At home she put him in the 10x10 pen formerly occupied by two other dogs, a large pup, Buddy, and a Doxi, Huck. Lakota quickly found the dog house and made himself at home for the next two weeks. At about 15 years, he is so comfortable in a doghouse or other small areas, he must have been a puppy mill dog turned loose to die on his own in the desert of California. (Sue's opinion.)
On 1/31/09 Sue drove Lakota to Gainesville, TX, to meet the first of many 4-wheel drivers arranged by Team Leader Krystal M in cooperation with Transport Coordinator Tanya K whose team then transported him on to Michigan to his new fur-ever home. Lakota is docile and compliant once in hand. Getting a hand on him once he is loose is another story.
Two emergency meetings of the BOD and all the parties involved has resulted in continuing efforts to resolve the matter. While this transport started out badly, the resulting pulling together of all of the people below should show the true hearts of the rescue/transport community. It is not about people. It is about God's 4-legged critters.
Operation Roger Drivers Merlin M pu 1/15/09; BOD Dale D pu 1/17/09; LOH Sue W pu 1/17/09; Team Leaders Nancy R and Krystal M; Independent Transport Coordinator Tanya K along with 4-wheel drivers Sharla B, Dee R, Tanya K, Susi Y, Dorrie H, Jan M, Jonni T, Gina W, Revajane L, Shawna Z, Donna K, Lesley R, Heather S, and Keith S. Del 2/1/09
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We received this Email from Heather S 2/2/09:
I would like to thank each and every one of you that assisted in Lakota's transport.  Without all of you, he would not be here ready to start a new life.   When I picked him up yesterday, I just kept staring at him, because I was still in shock that he was actually here. We have a lot of rehabilitation to do with him, and I am taking it very slowly with him.  I have just been sitting in the room with him quietly, allowing him to get used to my presence.  When he is ready he will come up to me.

Lakota is eating very well, and was quite hungry when he finally got home.  My spare bedroom/computer room is set up for him, and he is right next to my bedroom so I could hear him if he started to have any problems.  he only has had one mess in the house so far, I am sure there will be many more, but it all takes time and a lot of patience. He allowed me to massage his front paw last night.  I just sat with my eyes closed, and rubbed his foot gently for about a half hour.  He was so relaxed he leaned back against my book shelf, so he could still watch me if needed.   He is everything I had hoped for, and I am so happy to be able to finally be able to give this guy a chance at happiness.

Thank you all from the bottom of my heart and Lakota's.  I will have pictures posted on our web site soon of this darling boy.  Please visit it reguarly to see more updates!
www.fewstepsfromhome.homestead.com
Heather Smith - President
Few Steps From Home Animal Rescue
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We received this Email From: "Krystal McClain"

I know that many have already expressed their appreciation, but i wanted everyone to know that you truly are marvelous.
 
When Tanya added 1 more and then 2 more dogs [including LAKOTA] to Luke's transport you could have easily rejected the idea of taking on that many passengers. many people wouldn't offer that much of themselves, but all of you drivers did.
 
You did what was impossible for any one of us to do on our own and made it possible. I think that this shows us with each and every successful transport just how much people can come together to make this world a good one to live in. You are taking the most "unimportant" members of society and giving them importance. It truly is the noble work that we all should strive to do more of.
 
Thank you, for opening your planes, cars, and homes to 4 souls that were once thrown away. and thank you even more for doing it so joyously. It truly warms the heart to see so many people not only willing to give, but wanting to.
Krystal McClain
Operation Roger Team Leader-Krystals4Wheelers
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#329 SAMSON (Rhodesian Ridgeback) Kilgore, TX - Tustin, CA
 SAMSON #329 a 90 pound 1.5 y/o male Rhodesian Ridgeback had made his trip from Kilgore, TX, with Celia R of the Rhodesian Ridgeback Rescue to Tustin, CA, to Kathy L also of the Rhodesian Ridgeback Rescue with Driver Susan M and her two tiny companions.
Operation Roger Driver Susan M pu 1/16/09 del 1/23/09
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We receivered this Email 1/29/09 from the Driver Susan M.
Samson, a Rodesian Ridgeback rescue dog that I just recently transported from Kilgore, Tx to Chino, Calif, went good. He never messed in my truck and was such a good boy. When we got to Kathy's house in Calif, he was so happy to run and play with the other dogs there. They have a nice, big place for all the dogs. His forever family came and got him that evening. Before I left Kathy's house, we had a dinner of hamburgers and sat outside with the dogs running all around. Kelly & Tinky, my pets, came along to their house and played with the other dogs too. It was like a doggie vacation place. Doggie Heaven!! lol. Kathy and her Husband are really nice people.
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#328 LADYBIRD (Beagle X) Hartford, CT - Phoenix, AZ
 LADYBIRD #328 a Beagle mix was on our Pet Board for a long time.  The owner had moved to Phoenix and couldn't take Ladybird with her. Then, for various reasons she had a hard time finding a place where Ladybird could stay. We had at least two or three drivers who tried to pick her up, several times, until finally everything came together when Team Drivers Kris & Brandy P were headed to Hartford.  They picked up Ladybird and went on to their destination, fully expecting to do their normal run through AZ to CA.
However, the best of plans and "normal" is not the way the freight business goes at times.  Another driver was given the CA load and Kris and Brandy were sent to WA.  We tried to get a repower during their trip but it just didn't work out.  Kris has written about the trip so we will let him tell the rest of the story. See below.
Operation Roger Team Leaders Kris & Brandy P pu 1/8/09 - del 1/19/09
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January 19, 2009 8:35 PM
From: "Kris peters" To: "operation roger"
Ladybird is a 3 year old female Beagle mix but we think she is more of a Boxer mix.  We picked her up in Milldale, CT.  She was going back to her previous owner in Phoenix, AZ.  Ladybird had sat on the Pet Board for over 6 months and had had a couple failed attempts to pick her up because of aggression toward other animals that were larger than her.  This just proves we never give up on an animal.  Ladybird was a very energetic dog and kept on fighting Brandy (my wife) for the passenger seat.  She would even go as far as climbing on top of Brandy to be able to sit in the seat.
Ladybird is quite a challenge due to her lack of training.  When we would open the door, we would have to do it as a team because we may have a 45 pound dog flying at us trying to get out.
We could not get a direct load to Phoenix so she had to ride around with us for awhile. (They went to WA and then back through ND toward NJ before heading to CA).  We finally got a load to Los Angeles, CA.  Because we still were not going through AZ, Ladybird’s owner, Trinity, agreed to make the drive from Phoenix, AZ, to Las Vegas, NV.  We met Trinity at the TA Truck Stop.  All in all, Ladybird’s total travel miles were … 6,811 miles!!
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Below is an e-mail received from Trinity:
Tuesday, January 20, 2009 9:47 AM
From: "Trinity”To: OperationRoger01@yahoo.com
Message contains attachments bird dog.jpg (16KB)
I got Ladybird last night. Thank you guys so much for reuniting me with her. It's been over 8 months since I've seen her, and she remembered me instantly. Thank you so much for all your hard work. I've attached a picture of Ladybird. Thanks again, Trinity
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