The ASPCA’s West Coast Relocation Team was in high spirits Tuesday morning, when more than a dozen staffers and volunteers came together to help prepare a transport of 20 dogs from Downey Animal Care Center in Los Angeles to the Humane Society for Southwest Washington. It was an exciting occasion not only because the relocation will give these animals a better chance at being adopted, but also because it marked an incredible milestone: The 1,000^th animal transported in 2016.

The dogs in the transport ranged from Chihuahuas to pit bulls, but the honor of “Mr. 1,000” went to a sweet, gentle Staffordshire terrier named Teddy Bear—or Teddy for short. 

Two-year-old Teddy was found as a stray and brought to Castaic Animal Care Center in January, and he quickly stole the hearts of everyone at the facility. But despite his loving nature, Teddy was having a hard time finding a home in a sea of similar-looking dogs and an already overrun shelter system. Knowing this transport could save his life, Castaic staff and volunteers met our team at the Downey shelter to add him to our transport. In Southwest Washington, where there is higher demand for dogs like Teddy, our team is confident that he will find a perfect family soon.

 

“It’s just so exciting to see these animals off,” said Jill Buckley, the ASPCA’s Senior Director of Community Initiatives. “The fact that we’ve already transported a thousand animals—and that we’re not even a quarter of the way through the year—is a great achievement.”

As the thousandth transport of the year, Teddy is an indication that the Relocation Team is well on track to surpass 2015’s record of 4,293 animals. “This milestone represents hard work and great relationships,” said ASPCA Relocation Director Lance Hunter. “It also marks the fact that these animals really have a wonderful way out to a new life.”

 

One shelter staffer could hardly contain her excitement. “We are so grateful to have the ASPCA in L.A.,” she said, as she nuzzled Teddy and prepared to say goodbye. “Thanks to you, we know he is heading to greener pastures.”

Once Teddy and the other dogs were safely loaded into the transport vehicle, our two ASPCA drivers were ready to begin the two-day trek to Washington. It was an emotional moment, and as the van turned onto the highway, the team on the ground waved a proud goodbye while cheering them on. “Bon Voyage, Teddy!”