FAQs

A: Wings of Rescue's mission is to fly large scale transports of at-risk pets from disaster areas and overcrowded shelters to brick and mortar shelters where there is empty kennel space and where no local shelter pets are displaced by our flights. We are a donor based charity and do not have the financial resources to fly individual pets on customized routes.

A: No, it is far less stressful than being driven on a long distance land transport which could take days and have the pets confined in crates for long stretches of time. Our pets arrive in a few hours.

A: We have specific requirements in place to minimize the chance a wanted pet will be moved out of their home area. All pets we transport must have been in a shelter long enough to be deemed by law as abandoned and the property of their sending shelters. All of our pets carry extensive documentation with them so there is a paper trail linking them back to their origin, should circumstances require it.

A: All pets transported by Wings of Rescue must be fully vaccinated at intake and issued a health certificate attesting that they are disease free and fit to travel by a USDA certified veterinarian.

A: You can expect the same level of companionship, dedication, loyalty and faithfulness you would receive from any pet. Occasionally after a long confinement period in a shelter, it takes a bit of time for a pet to regain its full enthusiasm and spirit, but we rarely see pets that are so traumatized by their prior treatment that they do not make good family members. The pets we transport are resilient, adaptable and simply want to be loved and treated well.

A: We have learned that no matter what the specific circumstances, economic realities or social practices in any area, the vast majority of pet guardians love their pets and treat them well. Sadly, in areas where resources are lacking and little education about responsible pet ownership is available, some pets fall through the cracks and end up abandoned or not well cared for. Without proper funding for spay-and-neuter programs, for example, a small pack of stray dogs or cats can quickly turn into a large pack and become an almost insurmountable problem. Fortunately, many dedicated groups work in remote areas saving strays, rehabilitating them, and then transporting these pets to good homes. Many of our flights are from areas where stray dogs and cats are common sights, which is why we fly to those locations. Every pet we transport to a new life is one that will no longer suffer on the streets, procreate irresponsibly, or spread disease to other strays. We help alieviate the pet overpopulation problem as fast as our resources allow.

A: Wings of Rescue is not an adoption agency. All adoptions must be done in person from our receiving shelter partners, as no responsible organization will adopt a pet to someone who has not interacted with the pet prior to adoption. There are many great pets available at your local shelter and we encourage you to visit your local shelter where we are confident you will find a loving and highly adoptable pet who will make the perfect companion. You will find just the right pet for your circumstances.

A: It is surprisingly quiet on many of our flights, though certain breeds do seem more vocal than others! Once the pets are loaded on our plane and have few minutes to settle in, they typically wait patiently during the flight. Some are a bit scared, some seem shy, and others seem happy and outgoing – just what you would expect in a random gathering of dogs or cats. Each pet has a unique personality and temperament, so we’ve seen just about every sort of behavior you can imagine.

A: Generally, yes. The majority of the pets we fly have been named and cared for by local rescue operations, most of which give them a name when they first rescue them, if they don’t already have one. Wings and Rescue and our partners believe that each pet is a unique individual and should have a name and identity that reflects their individuality. It is up to the new guardians whether to keep the pet’s name or change it, but almost all our passengers arrive with a proper name.

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A: The safest way to transport a pet long distance depends on the animal’s size, health, and travel distance. For many rescue pets, air transport is the fastest and least stressful option because it significantly reduces travel time compared to driving. Pets should always travel in secure carriers, in temperature-controlled environments, and under supervision to ensure their safety.

A: Yes, many pets can travel in airplane cabins depending on airline policies, size restrictions, and the type of flight. In rescue operations, animals are often transported in climate-controlled cabin spaces rather than cargo holds to improve safety and comfort.

A: Animals are kept calm through proper crate training, minimal handling, and a quiet, temperature-controlled environment. Shorter travel times, experienced handlers, and consistent monitoring also help reduce anxiety during transport.

A: Before traveling with a pet, ensure they are healthy, up to date on vaccinations, and comfortable in a carrier. It is also important to consult a veterinarian, plan for hydration and breaks, and research travel regulations for your destination.

A: Before adopting, consider your lifestyle, time commitment, and ability to provide training and care. Rescue pets may need time to adjust, but they often become loyal and loving companions with proper support.

A: Mixed-breed pets can sometimes have fewer inherited health issues due to greater genetic diversity. However, every animal is unique, and proper veterinary care plays the biggest role in long-term health.

A: Pets typically need a veterinary exam, up-to-date vaccinations, and a health certificate before traveling. These requirements help ensure the safety of the animal and compliance with local and state regulations.