Truck Driver Travels 2,800 Miles to Rescue a Pit Bull from Euthanasia

by Theresa.J

When Mario Rodriguez, a California-based truck driver, saw a picture of a pit bull named Hickory, he knew he had to save him.

The two-year-old pit bull was on the list for euthanasia at the Animal Care Center Shelter in New York. Even though Rodriguez was thousands of miles away, he was determined to save the dog.

Watch the video at the end.

Rodriguez grew up around pit bulls and couldn’t bear the thought of this friendly, grinning dog losing his life.

“My family raised this breed collectively. I also brought up my kids with these animals. They show a lot of affection,” he said.

With limited time to act, Rodriguez made quick calls and arranged his truck route to take him from California to New York.

The journey would take nearly two days without stopping, but he was committed to rescuing Hickory.

During the drive, Rodriguez frequently contacted the shelter to ensure Hickory was still alive. He said, “I got in touch with the shelter every day. On the third day, they even knew my phone number. They replied, ‘Yes, Mario. It is nonetheless there.’”

Once Rodriguez arrived at the shelter, he met a very excited Hickory, who wagged his tail and jumped on him joyfully. Knowing that he had found his new family, Hickory’s happiness was evident.

Back home, Hickory quickly made friends with Rodriguez’s other pit bulls. However, the dog’s bond with Rodriguez was so strong that he didn’t want him to leave for work.

The family found a perfect solution: Hickory would become Rodriguez’s co-pilot in his truck.

Together, they traveled across the country, exploring parks and farms. Rodriguez said, “We frequently stop at parks and farms. He’s yelled at cows and encountered horses. He is enjoying herself immensely.” Hickory even had his bed in the truck, making long hauls much more comfortable.