Flying & Driving to save lives!


Mission Statement

We  are an ever growing team of volunteers committed to saving someone's future pet, wherever and whenever we can. Our goal is to improve lives, not only of the rescued animals, but the compassionate, loving families that adopt them, we have seen, time and time again, the joy that a  pet brings to their new home...

Watch some of the lovable reasons we do what we do!

Be an RV 2 The Rescue hero, and donate today. Every little bit helps and 100% of your donation goes towards rescue efforts for the many "ready to Love" animals waiting for help. 

Please send your donations to: RV2theRescue
                                                        125 Oakridge Way,
                                                          Rio Vista, Ca. 94571

The Wright Brothers Master Pilot Award

Our Founder, Susan Clark, was awarded the highest honor given to a pilot by the FAA. Please take a moment to view this prestigious award

This Years Rescues

February 14, 2024
Rescue pilot Daniel Feitelberg Charter Pilot

Rescue pilot Daniel Feitelberg just landed a Charter Pilot job flying a Pilatus PC 12. We are proud of his accomplishments and enjoyed the opportunity to work with him in Aviation Partners’ mentorship program. Daniel made lots of flights that saved the lives of many cats and dogs.


We wish him a safe and rewarding aviation career.

RV 2 The Rescue

January 20, 2024
Bella Begins Life With A Tough Start

This story from Mandy of Save A Bow Wow Dog Rescue in Whittier Ca: Bella was born by “accidental”  breeding. Her mom had multiple prior litters and we were fortunately able to rescue her and her 4 siblings at 12 weeks old. Bella had a hard time breathing through her nostrils and noticed this the second we rescued her. She was immediately taken in for vet checkup at which time we scheduled her spay and nares surgery to help her breathe better (warning, surgical photos attached). She’s been microchipped, vaccinated and now is healed up to travel to her forever home. She was slated to be adopted the first morning she woke up in rescue by our amazing 2 time adopter (Penny aka Saoirse & Stella’s parents). They have driven down from San Francisco to Whittier for both prior adoptions and had planned to come a couple days ago with Penny for soft palate surgery by our rescue vet, but the Doctor went into personal urgent surgery and the plans for Bella to go home and Penny to have her surgery were unexpectedly cancelled.

We had a rescue volunteer that reached out, their selfless family was willing to take in Bella for 5 nights while her future was arranged. We’re incredibly grateful for her short term foster family (Steve and Catalina) for being her safe, stepping stone after Bella’s surgery.

 A highly respected and appreciated transporter, we fully trust (Sue Clark), was already headed through the 210 freeway!  [Amazing how stars align!] The meeting point was only about an hour away for our rescue to meet Sue with Bella and it just so happened she had room! (Plus it was pouring down rain!!)  Sue graciously agreed to help our rescue with a last minute transport all the way up to San Francisco (closer to where RV 2 The Rescue is based). Bella is now in the Winnebago on her way to an amazing new life with a forever family that will love her deeply. 

Should you ever need a trusted rescue transporter,  consider using the nonprofit “RV 2 The Rescue” for the best most gracious, caring transport friend we know.

Have the best life ever Bella Bell 

RV 2 The Rescue

January 04, 2024
New Year begins with a BANG!

Thanks to all our volunteers and supporters from Rio Vista and around the country!  Your donation of time, money and moral support have allowed us to persevere and save a record number of animals’ lives.

Earlier this year, JAB property management, of Rio Vista, raised $4,000 in donations for RV2theRescue. We are very excited to have their support. These generous donations will go a long way in supporting the things we do for animals that need our help. Thank you so much JAB property Management.

We would also like to thank the following for their holiday cash donations through local organizations and corporate sponsors:  Spyglass Book Club, Ben’s Friends on the Vine, Trilogy Dog Club, Rio Vista Women’s 9 and 18 Hole Golfers.  and numerous legacy and anonymous donations. We look forward to a successful and prosperous 2024!

With sincere appreciation,

Sue Clark
Founder




October 02, 2023
New Rescue Pilot

Daniel Feitelberg is one our youngest volunteer pilots,  He earned his CFI and Instrument Flight Instructor Certificates recently.  He has an abundance of excellent experience after having taught flying in the busy Southern California airspace at the Torrance Airport. Daniel will be available to fly along on your rescue flights and provide some pointers along the way.


Glad to have Daniel join our team!


May 21, 2023
Buddy relocates to Arizona

When someone is diagnosed with a terminal disease it can feel very lonely. Often there are folks wanting to help and offer support, never exactly knowing what to say that will offer emotional support and comfort. But, maybe sometimes comfort does not include a single word, enter Buddy, a faithful companion that was always ready to give comfort when it was needed most. This is the story of a gentleman living in Sacramento, ca. with a terminal illness. When this man's time was over what remained was his unwavering companion Buddy, and what of his future, who would feed and care for him.


Fortunately the gentleman had family that were willing to open their hearts and home to Buddy but they lived in Phoenix, Az. but Buddy was living in Sacramento, Ca. nearly 800 miles away. This is where RV2theRescue stepped in to arrange a two segment flight for Buddy. Rescue pilot Matt flew Buddy to Palm Springs, Ca. where he met another pilot Rick, from Arizona, who flew the remaining trip to Phoenix, where Buddy was welcomed into his new forever home. We received a follow up note from the gentleman’s Grandchildren where Buddy now lives. “We're very grateful to all the time and resources Matt and Rick spent on getting him here. We are very happy to have Buddy here, he's settling in very nicely with our little family.” 

We at RV2theRescue, are so happy for Buddy.  We heard how he had been a faithful companion to your Grandfather this past year. So, now it is time for him to enjoy the rest of his life. A special thank you to Matt, who selflessly flew a roundtrip of 10 hours to help relocate Buddy and to Mike for flying the remaining trip to Phoenix.

May 02, 2023
A family effort to save a big family of dogs.

It took a big family effort to save a big family of dogs! Thank you to the village of coordinators, drivers, and puppy holders. There's more to this story.

April 17, 2023
A litter of four takes flight, Fresno to Sac. in search of a new home.

Matt Cronin is working towards becoming a professional pilot.  He loves to fly for a cause. Matt just completed his recue flight indoctrination and promptly volunteered to fly these "butterballs" to a safe rescue in Sacramento.  Thanks to a caring and compassionate volunteer in Fresno, who was able to prevent them from going into the Fresno Shelter. After landing in Sacramento, they were driven to their rescue in the Northern Sacramento area.


Matt with one of the dogs he transported from Fresno.

One of four dogs needing a home that Matt flew to Sacramento.

April 16, 2023
Stray Pug travels north for a better life.

Marsha Nichols from Clovis, Ca has been a supporter of RV2TheRescue for a long time.  She participated in donating to our fund raising airplane rides to helping us with transport.  Interestingly, Max is the second Pug Marsha has transported for us.  Since she was coming north from Fresno, she was able to pick up Max, a stray found in the streets of Fresno.  I was able to meet Marsha and make the drive from Modesto to Novato, to meet up with Molly Folley, a volunteer/foster for West Coast Pug Rescue.  Molly also volunteers with Marin Humane.  We are confident Max will find a good home soon.


Sue Clark with the stray pug found in Fresno

Molly Folley receives the wayward pug and will soon find him a new forever home.

March 16, 2023
Senior dogs allowed to live out their days.

Muttville here we come!  Two senior kennel mates were saved from Stanislaus high kill shelter Friday.  Our transport hero’s are Tom Watson from Rio Vista and RVW Freewheeler, Brenda Ribbs.  Muttville is one of California’s premier rescue organizations that specializes in finding homes for these senior “throw aways”.  They will be available for adoption soon.

March 06, 2023
Ryan Black aspiring Pilot and Vet Tech.

Four years ago Ryan Black took an introductory learn to fly flight, sponsored by Aviation Partners and the Kids Can Fly program. Recently, he contacted Sue Clark regarding his interest in becoming a vet tech and also becoming a pilot. He asked Sue if she would mentor him for a school project.  Part of his project was to collect donations for distribution to animal shelters and foster families in California.


Ryan will be participating in flights throughout California to deliver these supplies.  He is also creating a method to help raise funds for rescue agencies. This is the first load of supplies soon to be delivered.

March 05, 2023
Another Abandoned Dog...Rescued 

So many animals to rescue and lucky we have many people and modes of transportation to help us. A responsible and helpful citizen saw this dog being dumped in front of an apartment complex in Fresno.  This nice man in Woodland, with Yolo Co Spay Neuter, took this dog in and fostered him. Carol Hallacy, RV2 volunteer, drove the dog from Fresno to Modesto. Sue and Dale drove the puppy from Modesto to Woodland. Amazing coordinating team rescue! This 7 week old puppy is up for adoption in a few weeks. There are many dogs available at Muttville in San Francisco.

February 27, 2023
It's A Dog-Gone Good Steak

What is a vegan doing at Harris Ranch Steakhouse.   Picking up a steak for his lovely wife, of course! Rio Vistan volunteer, James Long is known for his long haul transports as seen here with an Avenal Shelter dog.


Thanks to our supporters, compassionate Avenal animal control personnel and Portland Oregon's Sacred PAWZ Rescue!

James Long and his transport partner

February 05, 2023
It's A Challenge to Find Homes for Senior Dogs

Savings Senior Dogs are always a challenge for shelters, finding loving homes for these cast aside dogs is often the hardest to place.  It is the senior dogs, the ones with health issues that seem to abandoned most by their lifelong families and owners.  They have a special place in our heart, so when we can assist with the transport of a senior dog that is high on the euthanasia list, we don't hesitate.

This dog is one of the lucky ones that was rescued by Fuzzybutt Rescue of San Francisco,  which specializes in rescuing cats, but this dog caught their eye when Modesto shelter workers and other volunteers put forth their best efforts to place this 10 yo pitbull mix.


We are grateful for the support of so many to make a difference one dog at a time.

Found as a stray...

January 06, 2023
It's a happy new year for Milo 

If you're a dog and you wind up in a SoCal shelter don't cough, or you will be moved to the top of the euthanasia list.  This is where Milo found himself until Bubbles Dog Rescue offered to take him and find him a new home.  Thanks to Sharon Pearce for driving Milo the final leg from Fairfield to Olivehurst to join his new family.

Milo enroute...Are we there yet?

January 03, 2023
SWEET POTATO HAS LEFT THE BUILDING!

She is taking her 4 puppies... Idaho, Yukon, Chip and Masher with her.  RV2TheRescue was able to help spring her from the Manteca Animal Shelter just in time for the new year.  A 209 mile journey in some challenging weather.  All are safe and happy in their foster home.  Way to go Casa de Love!

December 11, 2022
Stockton shelter kitties saved!

A last minute change of plans due to storms took place on Thursday.  Pilots Ron, Chris and Harvest made the quick dash to Stockton and back to drop off the cats to Nine Lives in Redwood City.

October 31, 2022
Pyrenees needs a home

This social dog and people friendly dog needs a home.  He is up for adoption in Fresno.  $25.00.

October 17, 2022
Barktoberfest held in Rocklin, Ca

RV2TheRescue was invited to participate in the Barktoberfest held in Rocklin, Ca a couple weeks ago.  Hundreds of friendly dogs and their owners attended this full day event to raise awareness and support for those organizations that support animal rescue.   The event was sponsored by the Placer County SPCA.   Tiffani and Sue manned the booth and talked to lots of visitors about how RV2TheRescue helps transport cats and dogs from various shelters throughout California.

BEAGLES CONTINUE TO LIVE THE DREAM

One of  RV2's goals is to try and make dreams come true for all puppies. Thanks your help.

August 26, 2022

Save the Beagles!

Recently officials from the State of Virginia closed down a large Beagle breeding facility, Inotiv.  This company raised thousands of Beagles dogs that were sold to laboratories for all kinds of experimental projects. RV2 The Rescue did one such transport years ago for Beagle Freedom Project of North Hollywood, Ca.  Their founder is Shannon Keith an animal rights attorney.

CHECK OUT THE AIR FORCE THUNDERBIRDS! Trilogy, Rio Vista, Ca had their garage sale day Saturday.  Karenann and husband Bob surprised RV2The Rescue with a collector’s item donation.  Bob and his dog, Shelby helped do our airplane annual inspection one year.  And, I met Karenann thru our 18 hole golf group.  AND, they have transported a pup for us.

Bob with his military background and knowing I am a “wing nut”, presented me with a picture of the Air Force Thunderbirds in flight.

While it is to be used as a fund raiser, it will take up residence in my home office until such time another aviation enthusiast feels it is a “must have” for their collection.

Thanks to Karenann and Bob for thinking of RV2TheRescue.

August 10, 2022

Rescue flight for Ms Mabel

RV2TheRescue was asked to help coordinate a flight for a puppy found as a stray in Puerto Rico.  A Puerto Rico volunteer group called Flight Angels arranged for little Mia to fly commercially with someone coming back to the US.  


3 month old Mia, a Min Pin - Chi mix first landed in Orlando, Fla and then traveled on to Los Angeles where she was fostered for several days.  Pilots Ashley and husband Ryan flew their Piper Comanche from Lodi to Palmdale to pick up Mia and fly her to Rio Vista.  This is their first rescue flight and they were so excited to help.


After a short overnight in Rio Vista, Mia was driven to Sacramento Executive Airport where she hopped a ride with yet another new rescue pilot, Bob and his friend Gary.  They took Mabel the St Bernard and Mia to Red Bluff which was the final destination for Mia, while Mabel continued on to Eugene, OR.


These lucky dogs will find their best furever homes possible.

The Crew inflight

Inflight passengers

Farewell to new friends

August 08, 2022

RV2TheRescue goes the extra mile for Mia

RV2TheRescue was asked to help coordinate a flight for a puppy found as a stray in Puerto Rico.  A Puerto Rico volunteer group called Flight Angels arranged for little Mia to fly commercially with someone coming back to the US.  


3 month old Mia, a Min Pin - Chi mix first landed in Orlando, Fla and then traveled on to Los Angeles where she was fostered for several days.  Pilots Ashley and husband Ryan flew their Piper Comanche from Lodi to Palmdale to pick up Mia and fly her to Rio Vista.  This is their first rescue flight and they were so excited to help.


After a short overnight in Rio Vista, Mia was driven to Sacramento Executive Airport where she hopped a ride with yet another new rescue pilot, Bob and his friend Gary.  They took Mabel the St Bernard and Mia to Red Bluff which was the final destination for Mia, while Mabel continued on to Eugene, OR.


These lucky dogs will find their best furever homes possible.

Mia looking for air traffic

Pilot Bob and puppy attendant Gary

A little Rest and Relaxation in Rio Vista

June 23, 2022

tHe Rescue OF OBIE

This one was a lot of work, but we did it.  How does a cute little shih tzu become a stray in a town like Apple Valley?  Badly matted, abscessed teeth and infections and not neutered. Once again, Casa De Love rescue took the shih tzu got him the care he needed. He spent 9 days in a southern California hospital getting him back health again, at a cost of $1000.


The shih tzu caught a ride to Modesto with a pilot returning from a flight to Los Angeles. He spent the night in Modesto and was picked up the next morning by Sue Clark.  A local Trilogy resident saw our post on nextdoor and immediately came over to meet the now healthy shih tzu.  She was convinced this is the dog for her.  After many phone calls and emails, Nancy was allowed to adopt the dog and named him Obie. It was apparent that he was once in a loving home, but what happened we will never know.


We are glad Obie is enjoying the good life in Rio Vista.

Obie before grooming

Obie with his new adopted mom

March 23, 2022

Golfers Swing for RV2tHeRescue

The Rio Vista ladies 9 hole golf invited the men’s 9 hole golfers to a St Patrick’s Day fun golf tournament. They offered golfers a chance to improve their score by purchasing a charity ticket and move closer to the hole. RV2TheRescue was chosen to receive these charity donations totaling $350. A big thanks to the participants in this fun event!

February 27, 2022

Life just got better for Hope

An 8 month old Doberman named Hope, was picked up and taken to the Fairfield Shelter.  After her stray hold was up, they wanted her gone asap.

With little notice, volunteer Sharon Peace opted for the 400 mi. round trip.  Hope was introduced to the other dogs at the rescue and proved she was as sweet as could be. As soon as Lindy Turner put the word out on Facebook, offers to adopt started rolling in!

Sometimes a little “Hope” is all one needs!

Hope leaves the Fairfield animal shelter.

Hope meets another dog at the rescue center.

February 25, 2022

Kloe gets sprung from Martinez Shelter

Kloe a 9 year old Maltese Poodle was surrendered to the Martinez Shelter due to her owner no longer able to care for her due to her own health issues.


Kloe is as sweet as can be and we are glad a volunteer driver picked her up Friday so she would not have to spend much time at the shelter.


After some pampering at Dixie and Bart’s - doggie B n B in Rio Vista, Kloe will fly to Casa de Love Rescue in Redding,Ca.

Kloe  happily exits the shelter on her way to Casa De Love

February 19, 2022

WELCOME TO THE FLIGHT CREW, SUSIE

A Susie Klemann has been flying co pilot and Puppy Flight Attendant for RV2TheRescue for several years.


Susie’s father earned his pilot certificate in the early 60’s. While she often flew with her father it never occurred to her she could be a pilot.


After being a parent for 34 years she decided it was time for her to spread her wings.  Last year she passed her Private Pilot checkride in the family Cessna 140, a tailwheel aircraft.


She and her husband will be going to Montana to work with her 89 year old Father to refurbish a Cessna 150 for Susie to fly.


Meanwhile, Susie is training to fly Aviation Partner’s Piper Archer so she can volunteer to fly rescued pets from high kill shelters.

Susie checks out the pilots seat in the RV2theRescue transport aircraft.

February 12, 2022

Three dogs travel across three states

A rescue van scheduled to transport a number of rescued dogs to Washington state broke down and was unable to transport the dogs.  Naomi Sprague contacted RV2theRescue for help to get two Chihuahuas-Terrier mix dogs, named "Mac" and "Cheese", from Fresno, Ca. and a Pittie pup, named Zeke, from Newman, Ca. transported to Washington State.


RV2theRescue quickly ran a post on the PilotsNPaws website which resulted in two volunteers to help move the dogs northward. Susie and Jordan flew to Fresno, Ca. to pick up "Mac" and "Cheese", and deliver them to RV2theRescue in Rio Vista, Ca.  The foster that was caring for Zeke drove the the Pittie puppy from Newman, Ca. to Lodi, Ca. where she was met by local RV2theRescue volunteer, Bruce Springer. Bruce drove Zeke back to Rio Vista.


The Chihuahuas "Mac" and "Cheese", had a wonderful sleepover at Bart and Dixie's house where they received much needed loving care. Zeke stayed at Sue's house, while Inky had her own sleepover with her best friends, Sugar n Spice at RV2theRescue's volunteer Dale's home.


The trip to Redding was on the road via "Winnie the Travato", with RV2theRescue's Sue at the helm because loading these crates with dogs in them into our airplane was not going to work.


In Redding, Ca. Sue and her happy travelers were met by pilot James from the Portland, Or. area.  James flew the 6 1/2 hour round trip to deliver the 3 pups to Washington state.


Thanks to Imagine Peace for Pups Rescue for saving these dogs and ensuring they get a happy forever home.

Bart and Dixie offered the Chihuahuas "Mac" and "Cheese", great accommodations.

Jake flew the three dogs to Washington state from California

Mac and Cheese just chill'n in their cage.

February 02, 2022

Max is Ready for Take Off

Max, a young boy, brought home a 8 week old Pitbull.  Knowing the father would not be too happy, his younger sister tried to hide the puppy from their father.  The father told the son he did not have permission to bring home a pet and threatened to dump the puppy in an orchard if it was not gone asap.


The mother was a bit distraught over the circumstance, adding to the stress of the puppy, and wanting to protect her children.  So she confided in her coworker, Katie.  Katie made contact with Lindy Turner, founder of Casa de Love, in Redding, who agreed to take Max, the adopted name given to the puppy, into her rescue and find him a good home.


RV2TheRescue's Debra Schwab made a quick dash to Modesto before anything terrible could happen to Max, and bring him to Rio Vista, where he was temporarily cared for by RV2theRescue.  Max was scheduled to fly out the following day but the winds that swept through Rio Vista made safe flight impossible, So Max enjoyed another night with RV2theRescue team. The following day the winds had dissipated and Max was ready for his flight to Redding, Ca.  First time rescue pilot, Glynn Dennis from Salinas flew to Rio Vista to pick up Max the puppy, the two then continued on to Redding, Ca. where they were met by the folks from Casa de Love. Glynn reported that Max was an excellent traveler.


The foster facility, Casa de Love, had their veterinarian give Max a check up, it was then discovered that Max is deaf or partially deaf.  So Max will be transported to a special foster parent in Los Angeles who will teach him sign language, after which he'll be ready to join a loving forever family.

Max, the puppy, immediately took to Glynn, his pilot for the trip to Redding, ca.

Max enjoys his overnight accommodations at RV2theRescue before his flight to Casa De Love

February 01, 2022

An update on Crispin the burnt cat

You might recall our previous story about Crispin, the kitten that barely survived the Cache Creek fire that our founder, Sue Clark, took on Alaska Airlines to his new home in WA state.

Well, Crispin is all grown up now and with a careful introduction and integration into his new home, he is doing well.  You can see that he and the other resident cat have bonded quite well. Cynthia, the adopter, is a woman with a big heart for special needs cats!  Thank you Cynthia, you are a rescue “hero”.

Crispin (right) gives a hug to his new best friend and housemate.

Crispin, all healed and happy in his forever home.

January 09, 2022

A true rescue flight for litter of pups

 On this day a litter of puppies were scheduled to be euthanized, but instead they we flown to safety.  Taken from a hoarding situation. Pilot Tiffani Shiro and Kolby Best flew almost 6 hours to bring these puppies to safety at Casa De Love Animal Rescue

If you're interested in adopting any of these adorable puppies, you can complete an application by clicking on the link for Casa De Love Animal Rescue.


If you would like to help defray some of our operational expense of o forperating our animal transport transport airplane donate through PayPal or mailing a check to our address listed above.


Thank you to Mona and Lyndsay for rescuing these cuties and for helping to find their forever home.


Pilot Tiffani holds one of the saved pups.

Pilot Tiffani, Kolby, and pups

Monicas and a rescued pup

Pilot Tiffani and Kolby unloading the pups.

Pups relaxing in their transport accommodations.

January 08, 2022

Saving Senior Dogs is something dear to our hearts!

 Bright and early Saturday morning, Marielle Moyer left Sacramento to pick up a very senior little poodle in Benicia and drove her to Rio Vista, where she met up with RV2the Rescue volunteer, Sharon Pearce. Sharon will make the long drive from Rio Vista to Kettleman City, where she will hand off the little lady poodle to Dogs and Kats Rescue. This sweet little senior poodle was rescued from the Martinez Animal Shelter. Way to go team RV2.

Marielle and Sharon with the Benicia poodle rescue.

January 05, 2022

Take the Bettie White Challenge

 RV2TheRescue just received their first check for the Betty White Challenge asking people to donate to an animal charity.  Susan W just dropped off her donation.


Susan W had met Betty White many years ago and had a chance to speak with her at length during a meeting with Morris Foundation, an organization that works to improve animals lives, working closely with medical and veterinary research teams such as UC Davis.  Then, Betty said "do you know where the restrooms are" and Susan said yes.  Betty said can you take me there?"  So she held onto Susan's arm while she walked to the ladies room, then Susan escorted her back.  Betty White was 88 at the time.


Please take a moment to consider taking the challenge and honor Betty White's legacy and consider a donation to RV2theRescue. Thank you. 

December 30, 2021

Peanut travels to La Habra to find a new home

 RV2TheRescue volunteer, Debra Schwab responded within hours of receiving notice that there is a little Bulldog that needs transport asap.  The lady that owned the French Bulldog passed away after losing her battle with cancer.  A family member took little Peanut, but her Pitbull would not tolerate the new dog in the home.  We couldn't stand to think that Peanut might fall into the wrong hands.  Luckily, Save A Bow Wow in La Habra, Ca. offered to take Peanut into their rescue because they are a French Bulldog rescue.


We struggled with how we are going to get Peanut to Southern California with the mountain pass filled with snow.   In addition, low cloud ceilings and low freezing levels made flying impossible.  Barbara Gray a transporter from Santa Rosa saw our request for help and offered to take Peanut to SoCal as she and her husband were driving to San Diego.  By the time they arrived in La Habra Peanut was quite spoiled.


What a great way to end 2021.  Enjoy your new life Peanut!

November 19, 2021

Crispin survives wildfire injury and finds a new home 

The Cache Fire was one of the largest fires in Northern Ca this year. This fire raged for months before being contained.  Not more than a few hundred yards from where the fire started did a tiny 3 or 4 week old kitten emerge onto someone’s property.  Upon closer inspection, what was originally thought to be mange, was in fact severe burns.


The kitten was taken to a vet in Santa Rosa who administered life saving fluids and treated his burns. But the vet had little hope that this kitten would survive the injuries that had ravaged his tiny body.  Miraculously, he survived! Meanwhile nearly 300 miles away, Cynthia of Arlington, Wa. happened to be following this story and decided that this kitten needed to be a part of her family, so she reached out and offered to adopt the kitten. And now Crispin, the name given to the kitten by the staff, was going to a loving home. 


We were pleased to be a small part of the team that transported Crispin via Alaska Airlines to Seattle.  Volunteer driver Debra Schwab and Sue Clark.



October 29, 2021

Severely neglected 8 week old mini poodles

RV2TheRescue volunteer Marcia Frankhouser responded to an urgent transport request for two little poodles with strangles, a curable immune system problem, that is sometimes found in very young puppies.


Marcia was very attentive to the puppies on the long drive from San Jose to Sacramento, where the next relay driver was waiting for their ride to Casa de Love in Redding, Ca.


It was hard not to fall in love with these two cuties who could not see from their faces being so matted and barely able to stand.


Good news.  We learned that Marcia is hoping to adopt BOTH these little nuggets!


Thank you for volunteering for RV2TheRescue!

Volunteer Marcia attending to the two poodle puppies

October 24, 2021

Beating out the storm to save some pups

Tiffani Shiro and Sue Clark wasted no time in flying to the Fresno Chandler Airport.  Waiting the arrival of Piper Archer 47225 was Mona Ahmed and 5 small pups that barely escaped being euthanized.


Moving into northern Ca was a storm deemed to be one of the worst in a 100 years.


Quickly loaded and we were off.  NorCal provided expert traffic advisories along our route.  There is a Beale TFR on our course to Chico, Ca.  This is one of the few TFR’s that a pilot may fly thru provided you have flight following.  Just to be safe, we talked to NorCal to confirm permission to transit the TFR. We were starting to encounter rain showers and lowering ceilings.  A quick turn had us headed back to Sacramento Executive Airport, landing before the ensuing heavy rain.


500 miles, 5 hours flying and 5 lives saved!


We only had one disgruntled passenger, the cattle dog barked after landing.


Sue Clark in the pilots seat



View from the cockpit, as the storm closes in


September 07, 2021

RV2Rescue transports donations for the animals at the Solano Co. animal shelter

The Solano County Animal Shelter in Fairfield, Ca. was very excited to receive dog and cat food, blankets, towels, bowls, collars, leashes and pee pad donations from many of the citizens of Rio Vista.  Transportation of the donations was provided by volunteer and golfer friend Mitchella Ybarra.


Way to go team RV2TheRescue!


Donations for the the Solano County animal shelter.

August 31, 2021

Husky takes a rest in Rio Vista

This cute and adorable 10 week old Husky-Lab mix casually awaits his transportation from Turlock to Rio Vista Ca. where he will then be heading to Sacramento, Ca. to a wonderful foster for adoption.

Cute Husky-Lab mix waits for his ride to Sac.

August 28, 2021

RV2Rescue participates at Hog August Bites in Rio Vista

Volunteer 

RV2TheRescue participated in the Rio Vista Hog August Bites celebration on Saturday.  We had plenty of visitors who stopped by to learn about our rescue efforts and how they can help.  We even had some 4 legged visitors.


A young puppy that is in herding training and Fred who is wearing a cooling vest.


Volunteer animal attendant Dale mans the RV2theRescue table at Hog August Bites event, with Fred in the foreground

A future herding champion...Perhaps

July 10, 2021

RV2Rescue volunteer pilot's Bill and Clarissa aid in the Lava fire animal rescue

Volunteer pilots Bill Stigle and Clarissa Spears fully loaded up their airplane with supplies for the animal victims of the Lava fire. They flew the supplies to the Montague Airport where they were met by the rescue staff who were anxious to receive the supplies intended for the cat evacuation center as well as the ranch. Donations included dog and cat food, leashes, toys, and even an elevated dog bed.


Great effort Bill and Clarissa!


*For more details about the Lava fire rescue click here

Pilots ready the aircraft for departure of the Rio Vista airport

Bill and Clarissa  in the cockpit

July 05, 2021
**Update: 07/21/2021

Dog thrown away for having Mange

 Here is an example of a dog dumped and left to die at a shelter in Fresno because it had mange.


Danielle Keener, of Lemoore, Ca rushed to the shelter to claim him before his scheduled euthanization took place. With a little care and concern, 2 days later and he can open his eyes and see someone really cares.  


Way to go Danielle!


Update: Barely hanging on to life with a severe case of mange, little Ms Rosie Posie has miraculously recovered under the excellent care from Danielle, Kings County SPCA.  They take the worst of the worst cases of neglect.  Godspeed lil Rosie!


Day 1, dumped at the shelter

 Two weeks later, a healthy, happy dog.

Day 3, Bright eyed, ready to love

June 17, 2021

Figaro travels the skies for his new home

 Figaro is racking up a bunch of frequent flyer miles!  Volunteer Pilot Ryan from Sacramento flew Figaro to Santa Barbara on the start of his journey to Colorado.


Thanks to RV2The Rescue Volunteers , Debra S and her friend Sue who made the drive to Santa Rosa and back to Rio Vista on Tuesday night, so he could catch this flight to Santa Barbara.


We will miss you Figaro!


Pilot Ryan with Figaro

June 15, 2021

Freddie boards his flight

 You heard of pilotsnpaws…..well here is pilotsnclaws.

Clarissa Spears has taken to the air with Freddie a Goffin Cockatiel.  The smallest of the Cockatiels, but one of the most mischievous and smartest.  Luckily he didn’t open his cage during the flight.

Freddie’s owner is a young college girl whose parents urged her to find a more appropriate home for Freddie.

Fortunately, Lindy Turner, a Redding, Ca dog rescuer, said she has an aviary and will give Freddie a good home.

After Freddie arrived in Redding he did a happy dance.

Clarissa Spears and Freddie

Freddie boards his unfeathered flight

Freddie gets his seat assignment

Sharon Pearce, Freddie’s chauffer

May 25, 2021

Up close tour of an animal rescue aircraft

 Mona Elliott receives donations from St Joseph’s Church kids as part of their Catechism class for Lent. Thanks to Jackie Evans for her wonderful leadership on behalf of St Joseph’s Catholic Church. The kids had a chance to take a close up look at the Cherokee Airplane used for many of the animal transports arranged by RV2theRescue.

St Joseph’s Catechism class

May 15, 2021

Kodiak travels 1260 miles in two days

A four month old Husky was picked up by animal control in Palmdale, Ca.  He was shy and terrified of being in a shelter, so much so, he cowered in the corner of his pen.  With little time left at this high kill shelter, folks at a shelter in the Los Angeles area asked for him to be transferred from Palmdale to them so he would have a better chance of being adopted.  But time was running out for the Malamute, when a volunteer for the Alaskan Malamute Rescue Organization came to lear of his predicament .  They responded quickly to save him from being euthanized by the L.A shelter.  It was here that he was given the name Kodiak.


While Kodiak spent a couple weeks getting vetted and receiving all his current shots, the Malamute Rescue had received an inquiry for adoption from a couple in the Seattle, Wa.  area.  Now all that was needed was to arrange transport for Kodiak. 

Fist leg of Kodiak's journey

Marcia Frankhouser, Assistant Coordinator greets pilot Rick Reeves

Kodiak arrives safe and sound at Hillsboro, OR.

Puppy attendant  Dale

Kodiak,  rides patiently with pilot Martin

The first leg of Kodiak's journey, was with a new rescue pilot Rick Reeves, he and his wife offered to fly Kodiak to Rio Vista, Ca. where they were greeted by Marcia Frankhouser, Assistant Coordinator for RV2TheRescue, Marcia would arrange care for Kodiak during his overnight stay. The following day, Kodiak was transported to Redding, Ca. under the watchful eyes of puppy attendant, Dale. Here Kodiak would board a plane to Medford, Or. for the third leg of his journey to his new home. Martin Buehler flew Kodiak from Redding, Ca. to Medford, Or. where he met pilot Pete Carlson who flew Kodiak on his final leg into Hillsboro, Or.  Here Kodiak will remain with a foster home until he has been further evaluated for his shyness, before being handed over to his new family. We hear Kodiak is getting along well and wanting to play with other dogs.  His shyness towards strangers seems to be improving and Kodiak is bound to be a great pet for some loving family.


UPDATE: Kodiak is now with his new forever family in Seattle, Wa. Enjoy your life Kodiak!

May 08, 2021

Chapo the sweet Bullmastiff

The owner of Chapo is living in a camper shell in the back of his pickup truck.  Realizing that is not a good environment for his dog, he inquired across 3 states before he was given the name Donna Hertel, a Bullmastiff rescuer.  As it turns out, the man is near Sacramento and Donna near Roseville.


Donna unselfishly took on this challenge to find Chapo a home, even though she was having to dealing with an aging parent.


Chapo was placed into a foster home to be vetted for the right family.  He has bad infections from allergies in his paws and was neutered.  After a couple days of rest and relaxation with Marielle Moyer, Chapo was on his way to Seattle where he will learn how to enjoy a comfy doggie bed and delicious nutritional meals.


UPDATE: Chapo is now with his adopted family and doing well in his forever home!

Chapo take a little R & R

Chapo heads to his new home

April 17, 2021

A Baaad Situation Ends Well

Often, breeders who wind up with too many male goats, have to destroy them. Lucky for two such goats, a Central Valley breeder relinquished these two young goats to a local rescue volunteer, who in turn reached out to RV2TheRescue in hopes of securing transportation to a no kill sanctuary in Napa. One of RV2TheRescue's long time volunteer's was thrilled to make the rescue drive to Madera, Ca. and deliver the goats to Bleating Hearts Farm, a Sanctuary in Napa. Run free kids!

April 13, 2021

40 Cats in one Airplane!

 Thanks so much to pilot Kevin who teaches Aviation Maintenance at Sacramento City college by day, and rescues kittens when needed. On this mission Kevin transported 40 cat, mostly babies as young as 3 weeks old from Visalia and flew them to Rio Vista airport where they were met by the folks from Kitty 911 of Antioch . They will see to the cats foster care needs and find each of them a wonderful family.

40 cats flew first class to Rio Vista

April 13, 2021

40 Cats in one Airplane!

Our longtime pilot, Tiffani planned on picking up 12 bottle fed cats from Visalia and delivering them to Kitty 911 of Antioch . It was to be a dual mission that day. She flew some much needed supplies to Visalia, ca. and then began to load 5 crates that contained 17 bottle fed cats. At the end of a busy day, Tiffani's only comment was: "We so appreciate our volunteers and fosters". Well said!

A cat with a birds-eye view

Tiffani and her co-pilot/ Attendant

A plane load of supplies headed to the Rescue in Visalia

March 25 2021

Nate transports 17 kittens!

Nate D., flew to Visalia and then to Rio Vista to transport 17 kittens that were heading to Kitty 911 Rescue in Antioch, where they will find their way to loving forever homes. In flight, Nate, a pilot from Marin Ca. braved strong winds to transport the kitties, safe and sound. Good job Nate!

Nate unloads 17 kittens destined for Antioch rescue

An urgent request was made to transport a seriously ill pup from Visalia to a rescue in Santa Rosa.  The sick puppy displayed symptoms similar to Parvo, an often fatal disease, or possibly an intestinal blockage. The owner was advised to take the pup to a local vet asap and the rescue would pay the bill.  

As plans were coming together for a flight, the owner notified the coordinator that the pup was dying and shortly thereafter the puppy died.   He had ingested a chicken bone and the owner waited 2 days before seeking help. I am too upset to post his picture. Please don't let this happen to your dog.  Get help immediately!

February 20, 2021

Another very happy ending...

We wanted to share this post from Dogwood Animal Rescue Project because it typifies the work that rescues do day in and day out. A new life for Garrett . Watch the transformation from living alone outside on a chain to loved, adored member of the family. THIS is why we rescue. So dogs like Garrett can live the lives they deserve. Making a difference one animal at a time. www.dogwoodanimalrescue.org 

February  06, 2021

Rescued dog dumped at Airport

A rescued dog was abandoned at Rio Vista Airport on Saturday, 02/06/21. Early Sunday Sue Clark , of RV2the Rescue was informed, via email, that a rescue transport from Visalia landed at the Rio Vista Airport on Saturday.  The flight was transporting some cats that were headed to a rescue in Antioch, Ca. and a Husky dog that was to be flown to the San Carlos airport and then picked up by a San Francisco  rescue organization. The pilot decided he no longer wanted the dog in his airplane, so he tied the dog to a post at the Rio Vista airport and departed.

According to the pilot, he left the dog behind because of the way he smelled, instead of taking him to San Carlos, as planned, a mere 15 minutes away. The pilot sent a message to the shelter in Visalia saying he was leaving the dog at the airport.  Ketrena, from the shelter, was able to contact the folks who picked up the cats and asked if they would return to the airport and retrieve the dog.  When the folks from Antioch returned, they found the dog tied to a post.  The dog was eventually delivered to the San Francisco rescue. He is currently in a foster home for the Family Dog Rescue in San Francisco.

Husky breed was rescued a second time, after pilot abandons him at the airport

January  23, 2021

Kipper's Journey

Kipper, a happy, sweet French/English bulldog mix had been living in Reedley Ca. since he was a puppy.  But now at the age of 5 the only owner he's known decided he no longer wanted to care for him and set off to give him away. It appears that no effort was made to vet the person receiving Kipper. His next home was with a woman that chose to keep him outdoors day and night, this was a radical change from all that Kipper knew since he was a pup. And so Kipper began barking insistently throughout the night. Isolated, and likely scared and confused, barking was his only option as he tried to make sense of his current predicament. The woman that took Kipper in did not seem to have the patience needed to help Kipper adjust to his new surroundings, instead, within a few days of taking in Kipper, the woman put the word out that she would harm the dog if someone did not come and take him away. 

Fortunately, for Kipper, Christie, a compassionate animal rescuer heard about this dog, and quickly sprung into action to save Kipper. Christie arranged to bring Kipper to Fresno, Ca. where Kipper hitched a ride to Lodi, Ca. with Mary a transport volunteer. Waiting for Kipper in Lodi, Ca. was Marielle Moyer who then transported Kipper to a rescue named Whiskers, Tails and Ferals in Napa Ca. where his life would be saved. Somehow Kipper must have known that his ordeal was coming to an end because it had not dampened his spirit to show love to the people who took part in saving his life.

Marielle Moyer, a Nevada resident and Vice President of Aviation Partners, Inc. is an avid volunteer for RV2theRescue. Aviation Partners, Inc. is headquartered in Carson City, Nv.  They provide creative skills in aviation related to education, research, and development. They also provide the aircraft used in many of the rescue missions carried out by RV2TheRescue throughout California.

Godspeed Kipper!

Marielle Moyer, Vice President of Aviation Partners, Inc. transports Kipper to Napa Ca.
Mary prepares to transport Kipper from Fresno to Lodi
Donations from the folks in Rio Vista, Ca.