An animal rescue organization with ties to Libertyville is seeking help from the community after their animal rescue transport van was involved in an out-of-state collision while transporting rescue puppies.
Wright-Way Rescue announced on their Facebook account that a cargo van loaded with four litters of puppies heading to Arkansas was involved in a collision that resulted in the van being totaled.
“Miraculously, both drivers—though shaken—were not seriously injured,” the organization said. “And most importantly, every single puppy was unharmed, thanks to the care taken to secure them safely.”
According to their website, Wright-Way Rescue operates a satellite location at Lambs Farm in Libertyville in addition to their facilities in Morton Grove and Murphysboro, IL.
The Wright-Way Rescue transport van is a high-top Dodge Promaster that has carried thousands of animals to safety over the years, the group said.
The van had just picked up three litters of puppies in Cleveland, Mississippi, and the driver continued toward his final stop in Blytheville, Arkansas.
However, a semi-truck accident forced the van to make a detour through Memphis, where the collision took place.
“In heavy traffic and confusing roadways, disaster struck: our transport vehicle was involved in a collision,” officials said. “Both airbags deployed, the front end was crushed, and fluids leaked everywhere. One of our most essential lifelines for homeless animals was suddenly gone.”
The group dispatched another driver in a second vehicle to rescue the shaken driver and the puppies while the original driver stayed with the broken van and tended to the animals.
The second van arrived at the crash site hours later, then continued the journey, officials said.
“While we do carry insurance, the payout will not come close to covering the cost of replacing this essential vehicle,” officials said. “The van that was lost already had high mileage, and what insurance provides will fall far short of what is needed for another reliable transport van.”
The organization is now asking people to lend a hand to help them purchase a new transport vehicle.
“Animals are still waiting—today, tomorrow, and every day,” officials said. “We urgently need to replace the van lost in this accident so we can continue saving lives without delay.”
Those wishing to donate are encouraged to visit the donation website.Â
“Your gift today is not just for a vehicle—it’s for the countless puppies, dogs, kittens, and cats who are waiting right now for their chance at rescue,” the group said. “Together, we will keep moving forward and keep saving lives!”