Fly puppies in the New Year!

[Boatguy]

I know many Diamond pilots volunteer to fly rescue animals (e.g., Pilots 'n Paws) and humans (Angel flights). This post is about another opportunity to volunteer your time and airplane. This year we began flying puppies for Canine Companions, a local organization (canine.org) which provides expertly trained service dogs to people with disabilities at no charge. The dogs are bred locally, then fostered and trained around the country. They need volunteer pilots.

These labs and retriever puppies are show stopping cute. When they come into the FBO, all work comes to a stop and it puts a smile on everyone's face. We've had entire private jet crews competing to hold and play with the puppies while we prepare our plane. And the reception at the destination is very rewarding. My wife loves dogs and calls this the way to get her puppy "fix".

Historically they were only seeking volunteers out of KSTS in Santa Rosa, CA, even though the destinations are all over the country and many are well beyond a one day flight for our piston planes. Fortunately a few local jet owners are also volunteers. They've now expanded their program to attract pilots around the country. They will fly the puppy commercially to Seattle, San Diego, Chicago, Columbus, Dallas, New York, Washington DC where you can pick up the puppy and take it on the final destination. For example, for a puppy that needs to travel to Boise, ID. They would fly the puppy commercially to Seattle and have it delivered to your FBO (e.g., KPAE), then you would fly it on to Boise. Or a puppy that needs to get to Austin. They would fly it commercially to Dallas and deliver it to your FBO at KFTW, then you would fly it on to Austin. A recent trip list is attached.

The puppies are 6-8 weeks old, about 15lbs and fit in a 100 size crate which will fit in the back of a DA40/42/62. We've carried as many as three at a time with both a 100 and 200 sized crate. Most FBOs will waive ramp fees and your fuel is a tax deductible contribution.

The travel coordinator is Anne-Marie Daniels and she can answer all your questions.

adaniels @ canine.org
ph: (707) 566-4895
c: (707) 913-8743
www.canine.org

Have a great holiday and New Year!

[Fanta$01]

What an amazing opportunity to volunteer and make a difference! It's incredible to see the program expanding to attract pilots from all over. Thank you for sharing the contact information. Have a wonderful time making a positive impact this holiday season!