Hero VIP Members Made This Iowa Rescue Road Trip Possible for 25 Dogs in Need

Just one week after Bosque Animal Rescue Kennels (BARK) drove eight rescue dogs from Texas to Colorado, rescuers packed up another van and hit the road. This one headed to Iowa with 25 hopeful dogs on board.

Each one had faced hardship, uncertainty, or neglect. But thanks to iHeartDogs’ Hero VIP Club members, their story didn’t end in overcrowded Texas shelters. Instead, they arrived in Iowa on March 14, where they were welcomed by the Jackson County Humane Society and a future full of possibilities.

Meet the Iowa Crew

This Rescue Road Trip included:

A litter of 9 puppies

Another litter of 5 puppies

A single puppy (later named Beau)

Chloe & Chance

Walker

Allie

Bernie & Lola

Pearl

Ruby

Mowgli

and Liam!

Ruby & Pearl: A Story of Persistence and Freedom

For passengers, Ruby and Pearl, rescue from their horrible living conditions didn’t happen overnight. It took nearly a year of advocacy. Kay Reid of Reflection Ranch Rescue refused to give up on the pair. For months, she checked in, pushed for better conditions, and fought for their safety while they remained chained outside. When their owner decided to leave them behind, the opportunity finally came.
Working together, rescuers stepped in and brought them to safety. For the first time, Ruby and Pearl experienced soft beds, full meals, gentle care, and the freedom to run.
Now, they’re beginning a brand-new chapter in Iowa, one filled with the love they’ve always deserved.

Walker: A Dog Who Chose Trust

Walker’s story began in an unexpected way. One early morning, he was found tied to BARK’s front sign. He had been left behind sometime overnight with another dog. When approached, Walker slipped out of his makeshift collar. For a moment, rescuers feared he might run, but instead… he came closer. Despite his abandonment, Walker was friendly and trusting of humans. His gentle nature immediately melted hearts at the shelter.

Now safe and cared for in an Iowa foster home, Walker can finally find a family who won’t leave him behind.

Already Finding Homes

The impact of this rescue was immediate. Since arriving in Iowa, several dogs have already been adopted, including:

Beau, whose new mom discovered him on Facebook when Jackson County Humane Society put out a call for help naming the influx of newly-arrived puppies from the Texas transport.

Lola

Raven

Casper

Bernie and puppy Tex were even adopted together!

For these dogs, their new lives have already begun, and many more happy endings are still to come!

The Power of Rescue, Fueled by You

This journey from Texas to Iowa was more than a road trip. It was a second chance.

Because of iHeartDogs’ Hero VIP Club members, 25 dogs were given the opportunity to leave hardship behind and step into hope. Now, they have safe shelter, loving care, and a real chance at forever. And it all started with one decision: to help.

Not part of the Hero VIP Club yet? Join now to help us save more dogs and enjoy free shipping on your first order, access to exclusive give-back opportunities, insider perks, discounts, and much more.