Rescue Flight: A Lady in Need of a Lift
I step onto the tarmac at Marysville Airport, the early February sun doing its best to warm up the chilly morning. My Piper Warrior, a steadfast companion in the skies, sits waiting for another important mission. Today, I’m flying south to Turlock, California, a small airport surrounded by farmland as far as the eye can see.
Turlock isn’t exactly bustling. The most frequent air traffic? Jackrabbits darting across the narrow runway like they own the place. But today, the real VIP is waiting on the ground—a tiny, timid, golden-haired dachshund with no name.
A Proper Name for a Proper Pup
When I arrive, Patty is already there, standing by her car with the smallest, most fragile-looking dachshund I’ve ever seen. She’s curled up in a tight little ball, her golden fur shimmering in the sunlight.
“She’s nervous,” Patty says, gently stroking her head. “Poor girl’s been through a lot.”
I look down at the little lady, all button eyes and delicate features. She has an air of dignity about her, despite the shivering. “Lady,” I say, kneeling down. “That’s what I’ll call you today. You seem like a proper lady to me.”
Lady doesn’t seem to care what I call her, so long as I do it quietly. We take all precautions as we transfer her from Patty’s car kennel to the plane kennel. She hesitates, but once inside, she nestles into a soft travel blanket.
Wheels Up, Worries Down
As we taxi down the runway, I glance over at Lady. Her little body is still trembling, but the moment the engine roars to life, something magical happens. The low, steady hum of the Piper Warrior seems to soothe her. Her ears perk up just slightly, and by the time we lift off, her eyes are getting heavy.
Good girl, Lady. Enjoy your first-class, one-way flight to a better future.
Over the Central Valley
Flying south over the Central Valley is always a treat. The landscape is a patchwork of greens and browns, dotted with almond orchards and vineyards. But my co-pilot isn’t interested in the view. She’s already curled up and asleep, the airplane’s vibration working better than any calming treat.
I let her rest as we cruise toward Cameron Park, a small airport community where houses have airplane hangars instead of garages. It’s a place where flying isn’t just a hobby—it’s a lifestyle.
Landing with a Royal Reception
As I descend into Cameron Park, Lady stirs, stretching her little paws. The moment the wheels touch down, she peeks up at me as if to say, “That’s it? We’re here already?”
Kerry from Foothill Dog Rescue is waiting as I taxi to parking. She waves enthusiastically, and I swear Lady recognizes that she’s about to meet her new hero. I open the kennel, and Lady steps out gingerly, sniffing the air, assessing the situation.
“Hello, beautiful girl,” Kerry coos, reaching out a gentle hand. Lady hesitates for just a moment before nuzzling against her.
Good Bye m’Lady, I think. You’re safe now.
A New Beginning
I watch as Kerry lifts Lady into her arms, whispering reassuring words. A new life awaits, one with cozy blankets, good food, and, most importantly, love.
As I step back toward my plane, Lady gives one last glance my way, her tail barely twitching. A small but meaningful thank-you.
With a satisfied sigh, I climb back into my Piper Warrior. Another flight, another life changed.
And just like that, Lady is off to her happily ever after.
Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. When you click on links in this post and make a purchase on Amazon, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Did you know that your everyday online shopping can help save puppies and kittens? It’s true! By using the special link “https://amzn.to/3YKvZcA” when you shop on Amazon, you can make a real difference in the lives of animals in need.
Check out our other rescue flights!
Interested in helping us fly more animal rescues? Check out these items we use to keep our passengers safe, comfortable and happy. Any item purchased on the site helps keep us going.
Amazon is great for pet supplies https://amzn.to/4bDboec. #ad
Easy to transport wire kennel https://amzn.to/3OErw5p #ad
Puppy Pads save your plane https://amzn.to/49tWdlE #ad
Sanitize Your Plane Afterwards https://amzn.to/4bzGjIq #ad
Cats Like Treats https://amzn.to/42Appp3 #ad
And So Do Dogs https://amzn.to/49zxexn #ad
Not all rescues come with a leash https://amzn.to/49ex26O #ad
Sometimes they just need water https://amzn.to/3wiRh4Y #ad
