Hundreds of Dogs Helped through RedRover Responders
September 1st, 2025
By Johanna Casao, Communications Manager –
TIA
In August, I joined the RedRover Responders volunteer team as we traveled to Tulsa, Oklahoma, to help the Humane Society of Tulsa with an alleged cruelty case. With more than 300 Maltese dogs and puppies in need of care, our team worked diligently to make sure they were given the attention and support they needed. Our daily tasks included preparing meals and feeding, cleaning cages and kennels, grooming, and my favorite part – providing plenty of chin scratches and belly rubs.
I was assigned to the puppy area, where I helped care for new litters and their mothers. Being in a shelter is challenging for every animal, but it can be especially stressful for puppies and mothers due to their need for additional support and enrichment. We prioritized simple, but essential activities for the dogs, such as placing them into play pens to allow them time to run around, jump, and expend energy. We also gave every dog a bath where they were thoroughly cleaned, matting shaved off, and toenails clipped. Every interaction counts, and we knew how important it was to make their stay as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.
This was such a heartwarming experience, as it was noticeable how much better the dogs felt after their “spa treatments” with time and space to play. It shows how even the simplest of tasks can be extremely meaningful for animals in need.
BETH
Our RedRover Responders volunteers stepped up when The Humane Society of Tulsa requested assistance from our team – they had taken on the enormous task of caring for these dogs, and there is hardly any shelter in the world that could manage such a huge influx of dogs without outside help.
What a lively bunch of dogs! They were so delightful to be around. Our team helped clean their kennels and feed them. But the most fun was spending quality time with them in their kennels: giving them baths, grooming them, giving them treats and toys, and watching them come back to life after living in such dire conditions.
I am continually touched by the kindness of our volunteers. Day in and day out, they provided loving comfort and care. They were so careful to interact with the dogs and pups in a way that aided their healing – not forcing any socialization, but letting the dogs approach them in their own time to build trust. Our volunteers were just as compassionate towards the humane society staff, even pitching in to buy their shelter manager a massage appointment in appreciation of her hard work on behalf of the dogs!
All of us on this deployment recognized it was a special one – the wonderful dogs we cared for, the amazing humane society staff we worked with, and the goodwill shown by all.
MIKE
In August 2025, I deployed to Tulsa, Oklahoma, with our RedRover Responders volunteers. Representing the communications team, I was there to capture this story (including videos like this one we shared on Facebook and Instagram), but I was also there to help in any way I could.
I was given the opportunity to talk with the Humane Society of Tulsa staff members about the impact our volunteers were having on the ground. Their gratitude was immense. They shared how our volunteers provided critical relief, allowing their team to focus on specialized medical care for the most at-risk dogs.
The dedication of everyone involved was truly inspiring. Seeing firsthand the partnership between our organizations and the unwavering commitment to these animals was a powerful reminder of our mission. This collaboration proves that when we come together, we can bring hope to even the most heartbreaking situations. Thank you to our volunteers for your dedication, and thank you to the Humane Society of Tulsa for being such incredible partners.
