Welcome to all new pilots, we are grateful you are volunteering and making a difference by saving lives. We understand that there is a lot of important information throughout this site, we do our best to advise and cover it all, so please take the time to familiarize yourself with the various forums, all the FAQ sections on the upper right of each page of the board. There are guidelines that you are given when you register however it's easy to forget them so they are listed several places throughout the board.
One very important section that people sometimes overlook is the announcement and request to read the section at the very top of the Ride Board: Animals Needing Transport section:
http://www.pilotsnpaws.org/forum/viewforum.php?f=37
Every pilot and rescue should take a few minutes and look over this material. The options of who to fly for, when and where, numbers of animals, types, etc. are all left in the hands of each pilot. The program works because we do NOT tell you when, where or who to fly for but at the same time, pilots need to become educated about rescue animals and rescues need to be educated about using this method of transportation as it is much different from ground. What is the same for both though is that animals must have a current health certificate. Pilots, always ask the person sending. Rescues, we appreciate all the tremendous work you do in pulling, vetting and fostering these animals and at the same time, you need to keep in mind that our pilots are giving you a huge gift and it is important that you give them the utmost consideration even when it means it might be a little more difficult logistically for you. There are constraints when flying that you don't have to think about when driving
Though planes do not normally have to be cleaned after flights, every single crate must be cleaned. Even though the animals might appear healthy during the transport they could break out with doggie flu, parvo, etc. a day later. Best to air on the side of caution. Transport between states is important as well so please read the USDA requirements via the links we have provided. Most rescue orgs should KNOW the requirements but it is best to familiarize yourself as well.
These flights our pilots make are truly changing lives, both animals and people. Respect and consideration should always be given with anyone working together within Pilots N Paws. It is a privilege to use these public benefit flying service, not a right. We hope that everyone is understanding, patient and enjoy all those puppie kisses and the looks in the eyes of the animals who say thank you--somehow, they just know.
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