75 dogs used for profit and discarded from puppy mills rescued in Operation Holiday Express

ARC’s field team deployed after receiving an urgent call from a rescue partner to help with multiple puppy mill dogs in urgent need. Animal Rescue Corps assisted with the rescue, transport, and placement of 75 dogs who were used for profit and then discarded by Midwest mills in a rescue intervention dubbed Operation Holiday Express. A variety of breeds, including Cocker Spaniels, Chihuahuas, Australian Shepherds, Pomeranians, Dalmations, Shiba Inus, and Dachshunds will be transported to ARC’s Rescue Center before being placed with rescue organizations and shelter partners around the country. 

Man holding a gray cat with white markings in an indoor facility with open carrier visible in background.
Apricot-colored curly-haired dog held by a person, looking at camera against dark background.
Long-haired dog with tan and white coat held by a person's hands during examination at an animal shelter or rescue facility.

“Puppy mills are breeding grounds for cruelty, and the conditions these animals endure are unimaginable. Choosing to adopt from a reputable shelter not only saves a life but also helps put an end to the cycle of suffering perpetuated by puppy mills. Our hope is that many of these animals will be in a loving home for the holidays,” said Tim Woodward, Executive Director for Animal Rescue Corps.

Some of these dogs, like Jelly and Donut, are from a Midwest puppy mill that is shutting down, leaving them and other poodles and dachshunds in desperate need of help.

A tan and white curly-haired dog being held in someone's arms outdoors, with blue sky visible in the background.
Small tan and gray curly-haired dog sitting on blue fabric, looking at camera, appearing alert and calm during care or transport.

Some were dumped, like Nutmeg, Clove, and Ginger. They are terrified chihuahuas, likely discarded by a breeding operation that no longer found them “profitable.”

Three small dogs resting on a blanket next to a metal food bowl during shelter care.

Others dogs, like Apple, are discarded entirely as so-called “rejects” from mill operations.

Close-up of a Shih Tzu mix dog's face with long, tan and brown hair covering its eyes, looking directly at camera indoors.

After receiving care at ARC’s Rescue Center, the dogs will be matched and transported to trusted shelter and rescue partner organizations. They will ultimately adopt them into loving homes. To support the dogs of Operation Holiday Express, BISSELL Pet Foundation and Cathy Bissell have generously announced a $10,000 matching challenge. Every donation made to Animal Rescue Corps during this period will be matched dollar-for-dollar until the match is met.

White Cocker Spaniel held by a person in a shelter or rescue facility, with kennels visible in the background.
Small tan and white dog held by person wearing patterned scarf in indoor shelter setting.
Cream-colored dog with curly fur being petted by a person in a shelter kennel setting.

This rescue mission was carried out in collaboration with a trusted rescue partner. It serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of adopting companion animals rather than supporting the puppy mill industry. The holiday season often sees an increase in the demand for puppies as gifts, but Animal Rescue Corps urges the public to consider adopting. Adoption from reputable shelters and rescue organizations avoids perpetuating the cycle of suffering in puppy mills.

A puppy mill is no life for an animal. Together, we can help these dogs.

White fluffy dog with curly coat and black nose in a kennel during Animal Rescue Corps care.

With your help, their new lives begin now.

If you are in a position to help today with a gift to support ARC’s work, please do.

These dogs, and so many others like them, have known immense heartbreak, neglect, cruelty, and suffering.