Co-Pilot John Barrett with Pete resting on his shoulder

I flew my 34th rescue flight this past Sunday. On board, two dogs, both pulled from a NC shelter just hours before being gassed (still a legal form of euthanasia in some NC counties). After a few weeks of rehab by Rhonda Beach and her rescue group (Chances Angel Rescue & Education), they were on their way to Blue Bell, PA to be adopted.

Most dogs fall asleep on these flights. But Pete (60# and really strong) sat on top of one of the crates behind co-pilot John Barrett so he could look out the window and “hang” with the crew. Sawyer, a 45# shepherd mix, was in the back. We transferred both dogs to the next pilot in Tappahannock, VA for the second leg north.

As volunteer pilots we are a small link in the chain of dedicated rescue groups that work tirelessly to save these dogs. Most leave by car or van. But when budget allows I along with other pilots pitch in and do what

Lenny Caiazzo (Pilot) and his nephew Anthony Caiazzo during the transfer in Tappahannock, VA

we can. As you can tell from the picture, the bond that develops in the short time we are with these dogs is quite remarkable. In the last three years I’ve flown 119 dogs to safety and I’m convinced each one understood we were there to give them another chance at life.

Rick Gutlon

Co-Pilot John Barrett with Pete and Rick Gutlon (Pilot)

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Posted by Kathleen Quinn Charleston Executive Director, Pilots N Paws