It’s my day off and I’m awake at 6 am. Why? It’s FREEDOM FLIGHT day for three pups who need our help. I roll into the airport by 630am, pull open the hangar doors and am strapped into my trusty Piper Warrior, ready for takeoff by 7. Today, I’m on a mission, not just any mission, but a rescue mission in support of the fantastic charity, Pilots N Paws. Three furry little passengers will escape their life sentence at the animal shelter, and board their FREEDOM FLIGHT bound for a new life.
We love animals at my house. With my time off, I like to reach out to the rescue network to see who needs a ride. Today Lynn lets me know 3 pups need a get-a-way from a high kill shelter. Say no more, I’ll be there. As I taxi down the runway, I can’t help but feel the rush of excitement. The engine roars to life, and we’re off to make a difference in the lives of three furry friends.
The day is absolutely gorgeous, with the California Central Valley bathed in a golden autumn glow. The trees rustle like they’re whispering secrets, and the morning air feels crisp. I can’t help but think, “This is a day for new beginnings.”
Our final destination? Sonoma County Airport, snuggled in the beautiful Santa Rosa Valley. But first, we’ve got a little pick-up to do in Visalia. That’s where the action starts. You see, Visalia’s got some special passengers today.
We’ve got a pair of Pekinese dogs who’ve had their lives turned upside down when their owner gave them up. They cuddle together in the back, and it’s almost like they know something exciting is about to happen. Meanwhile, we’ve got a Labrador-German Shepherd short-legged mix who’s seen better days. This fella’s in rough shape, but we’re going to change that.
As we ascend into the azure sky, there’s a moment of suspense as the Labrador mix gets a little air sick. A touch of nerves, you know. But no worries, we’ve got doggy bags on board – just kidding! I comfort the poor pup with a reassuring pat, and we’re back on track. After all, it wouldn’t be a proper adventure without a little drama, right?
The view below is like something out of a postcard. We go from endless fields in the Central Valley to the rolling hills of Santa Rosa, painted with the vibrant hues of autumn. Today is a great day to fly. An even better one to start a new life. It’s like Mother Nature herself is giving us a standing ovation for what we’re about to do.
Soon, the wheels of the Piper Warrior meet the tarmac at Sonoma County Airport, and a group of excited volunteers from a local animal rescue organizations called Dogma Rescue and Dogwood Animal Rescue rush to welcome our precious cargo. The dogs are amazed by their new surroundings, and their tails wag hesitantly, as if they’re thinking, “Is this real?”
This is the moment they’ve been waiting for, the moment of rescue, and the beginning of their new lives filled with love and care.
Over time, these three brave canines will find their forever homes, where they’ll be treated like the royalty they are. It’s a heartwarming reminder that sometimes, a little adventure in the sky is all it takes to change lives, one tail-wag at a time.
So, with each Freedom Flight, like this one, and each rescue mission, I’m reminded that planes can carry not just cargo but hope, kindness, and maybe a hint of turbulence to keep things interesting. And that, my friends, is what makes life truly pawsome.
Interested in flying your own Pilots N Paws rescues? Check out these items we use to keep our passengers safe, comfortable and happy.
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- Cats Like Treats https://amzn.to/42Appp3 #ad
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- Not all rescues come with a leash https://amzn.to/49ex26O #ad
- Sometimes they just need water https://amzn.to/3wiRh4Y #ad
Check out our other rescue flights!
Who Doesn’t Love a Happy Ending? Dakota Finds A Home!
CJ Saves the Kittens! A New Beginning for 18 Babies
2 responses to “Paws and Propellers: It’s a FREEDOM FLIGHT Day”
Ihy goodness, my heart is filled with every lil rescue you share…sniff
Thank you all!💜💜💜
Our Dogwood Animal Rescue family thanks you so much! Our darling little Pekingese girls will have wonderful new lives of love and comfort thanks to you.