Josh wrote up his first Pilots N Paws Mission:  For weeks, my wife and I have been trying to merge my love of flying with her love of animals by participating in a Pilots n Paws mission. A 501(c)(3) non-profit, PnP connects volunteer pilots with rescue organizations who need to transport animals across longer distances. Our first three attempts were cancelled due to weather. This past week, I saw a request from Kankakee, IL to St. Louis, MO.  The trip from 3CK (Lake in the Hills) would be 255 nm down and 234 nm home. It was a beautiful evening and the perfect opportunity for a little mission.

Kankakee Animal Control & Adoption had taken control of an 11 year old American Eskimo who’s owner passed away a few years ago. “Snow” ended up tied up in a back yard of a family member.

Facebook Story Link: Kankakee Animal Control – Scroll down to their July 12th wall post.

It was a quick trip to Kankakee for the pickup where I was greeted by warm and friendly people, excited about their first PnP trip experience. The FBO had charm and a sense of aviation history as some things clearly hadn’t changed in decades, like the water fountain. It brought back memories of my grade school with stainless pedestal fountains and tan cinderblock walls. I had to try it out!

Snow was very nervous about the changes going on around her.  We gave her time to walk around the ramp and sit in the plane to get comfortable prior to loaded her into the carrier. The crate she traveled in was 22x18x18, just small enough to fit in the back of the RV-9a.

Departure was quick after loading so she wouldn’t get hot or stressed. The trip to St. Louis was just under one hour at 6,500 feet. That altitude keep the cabin cool for her thick coat of fur.  Soon she will be transferred from her foster home to a new “furever” home. The trip into St. Louis Downtown Airport was relaxing and enjoyable. Approach into KCPS provided an incredible view of downtown St. Louis and the Arch.

After getting Snow out, I chatted with the foster parent which was just enough time to stretch the legs and get some fuel for the return trip.

If you haven’t considered a PnP mission, I assure you that it will be memorable and a great way to spend some time in the air!

Thank you Petmate for being a proud sponsor of Pilots N Paws!