The Problem
Each year, approximately 920,000 shelter animals are euthanized (390,000 dogs and 530,000 cats). The number of dogs and cats euthanized in U.S. shelters annually has declined from approximately 2.6 million in 2011. Reference: ASPCA
Our Mission
Pilots To The Rescue (PTTR) is a non-profit, volunteer-driven, 501c3 public benefit aviation organization. PTTR’s mission is to transport domestic and endangered animals at risk. PTTR supports its network of trained volunteer pilots so they can focus on their missions and do the greater good.
We rely on people like you!
Any help you can provide is appreciated.
2023 Mission Stats
63 Missions
76127 Miles
828 Souls
541 Dogs
286 Cats
1 Wolf
2023 Goal: 1000 Souls!
View All Mission Stats
Stay Connected
🛩️ Sky-high passion meets purpose! 🐾 Check out our incredible team of volunteer pilots who are not just soaring through the skies but are also creating pathways to forever homes for countless furry friends.
Are you, or someone you know, an aspiring pilot looking to clock in more flight hours? Join our ranks! Not only will you get those much-needed hours for licenses and ratings, but you’ll also be part of a mission that touches lives (and paws) every single day. 💙
If you’ve got the love for aviation and animals, we’ve got the perfect co-pilot seat for you! ✈️ Know someone who’d be a perfect fit? Tag them below and help us expand our fleet of heart-driven heroes! 🚁❤️
#FlyWithPurpose #RescuePilotsWanted #aviation #aviationlovers #aviationdaily #aviators #dogoodwork #giveback #givebacktothecommunity #nonprofitwork #volunteerwork #pilotslife #pilots #pilotswanted
Are you, or someone you know, an aspiring pilot looking to clock in more flight hours? Join our ranks! Not only will you get those much-needed hours for licenses and ratings, but you’ll also be part of a mission that touches lives (and paws) every single day. 💙
If you’ve got the love for aviation and animals, we’ve got the perfect co-pilot seat for you! ✈️ Know someone who’d be a perfect fit? Tag them below and help us expand our fleet of heart-driven heroes! 🚁❤️
#FlyWithPurpose #RescuePilotsWanted #aviation #aviationlovers #aviationdaily #aviators #dogoodwork #giveback #givebacktothecommunity #nonprofitwork #volunteerwork #pilotslife #pilots #pilotswanted
Sky-High Success and Gratitude! 🌟🛩️
This past Friday, we witnessed what can only be described as pure magic. The collaborative power of individuals, united by compassion and a shared purpose, achieved something greater than ourselves. Our mission saving these adorable fur-babies was an immense success!
Huge kudos to our dedicated pilots from that mission, @vikingurthorsteinsson and Sy Blechman, for steering this journey of hope and love along with our pawesome volunteer @thebiancaofficial. Their unwavering commitment to our cause made this possible.
To all our amazing supporters: From the depths of our hearts, THANK YOU. Your belief in our mission is the wind beneath our wings. Our nonprofit endeavors thrive because of your endless encouragement and support.
For those looking to expand your family with love and furry cuddles, these adorable souls are available for adoption at ‘Cape Ann Animal Aid’. Let’s turn this successful journey into forever homes for them!
When we come together, miracles truly happen. Let’s continue creating these wonderful stories. ❤️🐾
#ThankYou #MissionSuccess #TogetherWeSoar #AdoptDontShop #FurryMiracles #SkywardGratitude
This past Friday, we witnessed what can only be described as pure magic. The collaborative power of individuals, united by compassion and a shared purpose, achieved something greater than ourselves. Our mission saving these adorable fur-babies was an immense success!
Huge kudos to our dedicated pilots from that mission, @vikingurthorsteinsson and Sy Blechman, for steering this journey of hope and love along with our pawesome volunteer @thebiancaofficial. Their unwavering commitment to our cause made this possible.
To all our amazing supporters: From the depths of our hearts, THANK YOU. Your belief in our mission is the wind beneath our wings. Our nonprofit endeavors thrive because of your endless encouragement and support.
For those looking to expand your family with love and furry cuddles, these adorable souls are available for adoption at ‘Cape Ann Animal Aid’. Let’s turn this successful journey into forever homes for them!
When we come together, miracles truly happen. Let’s continue creating these wonderful stories. ❤️🐾
#ThankYou #MissionSuccess #TogetherWeSoar #AdoptDontShop #FurryMiracles #SkywardGratitude
🛩️ Pilot @vikingurthorsteinsson and co-pilot Sy Blechman are currently en route, flying with the incredible mission to bring 10 dogs to their brighter futures. Among them are 9 adorable 10-week-old puppies and a tiny Chihuahua, all eager to find loving homes.
A huge shoutout to our volunteer on today's mission, Bianca! Check out @thebiancaofficial for updates in her IG story!
We're teaming up with the compassionate folks at 'It Takes A Village Rescue' and the wonderful 'Cape Ann Animal Aid' - where they will be available for adoption. Let's give these fur-babies the love and homes they deserve!
Track our journey in real-time with our flight tracker linked in our story.
Let's unite to make these dreams soar! Please share, donate and help these fur-friends find their forever homes. 🐶❤️
#RescueMission #PuppyLove #AdoptDontShop #SkywardJourney #ItTakesAVillage #CapeAnnAnimalAid #RescueDogsOnBoard #ShareTheLove
A huge shoutout to our volunteer on today's mission, Bianca! Check out @thebiancaofficial for updates in her IG story!
We're teaming up with the compassionate folks at 'It Takes A Village Rescue' and the wonderful 'Cape Ann Animal Aid' - where they will be available for adoption. Let's give these fur-babies the love and homes they deserve!
Track our journey in real-time with our flight tracker linked in our story.
Let's unite to make these dreams soar! Please share, donate and help these fur-friends find their forever homes. 🐶❤️
#RescueMission #PuppyLove #AdoptDontShop #SkywardJourney #ItTakesAVillage #CapeAnnAnimalAid #RescueDogsOnBoard #ShareTheLove
🎬 Lights, camera, action! 🎥 Still can’t believe we teamed up with @SleepNumber for this incredible commercial! 🌟 Our founder and one of our dedicated volunteer pilots showcased not just the power of a good night’s sleep, but the passion and dedication behind every rescue mission we embark on. 🐾
Spreading awareness for overcrowded shelters and the heart-driven purpose of our nonprofit has never felt so surreal! 🚁✨ Have you caught our commercial on Roku TV yet? Let us know!
As @CNN aptly captured: “When animal rescue pilots Michael and Michaella travel hundreds of miles to rescue animals, they need quality sleep to fly the distance.” - Content by Sleep Number 💤🛌 #DreamBigRescueBigger
#sleepnumber #rokutv #rescuestory #heros #nonprofitlife #adoptdontshop #animalrescue
Spreading awareness for overcrowded shelters and the heart-driven purpose of our nonprofit has never felt so surreal! 🚁✨ Have you caught our commercial on Roku TV yet? Let us know!
As @CNN aptly captured: “When animal rescue pilots Michael and Michaella travel hundreds of miles to rescue animals, they need quality sleep to fly the distance.” - Content by Sleep Number 💤🛌 #DreamBigRescueBigger
#sleepnumber #rokutv #rescuestory #heros #nonprofitlife #adoptdontshop #animalrescue
🛩️ Love this video by one of our volunteers @pdzzy reminding us: “You can do anything you want. You are bound by nothing.”
✨ Whether it’s soaring the skies, igniting a cause, or reshaping community impact, the sky’s the limit.
Dreamers, doers, trailblazers: What’s that ONE thing you’ve always dreamt of achieving? Sound off in the comments! 🔥
#BoundByNothing #ChaseYourDreams #PTTRInspires #DreamBig #TakeFlight #CommunityImpact #PassionProject #GoalsAndDreams #MakeADifference #LimitlessPotential #SkyIsTheLimit #DreamItDoIt #InspirationDaily #LifeGoals #ReachForTheStars #TrailblazerLife
✨ Whether it’s soaring the skies, igniting a cause, or reshaping community impact, the sky’s the limit.
Dreamers, doers, trailblazers: What’s that ONE thing you’ve always dreamt of achieving? Sound off in the comments! 🔥
#BoundByNothing #ChaseYourDreams #PTTRInspires #DreamBig #TakeFlight #CommunityImpact #PassionProject #GoalsAndDreams #MakeADifference #LimitlessPotential #SkyIsTheLimit #DreamItDoIt #InspirationDaily #LifeGoals #ReachForTheStars #TrailblazerLife
🛩️ Exciting times! We're honored to be featured by General Aviation News, spotlighting our mission with Outstanding Aviators to bridge the diversity gap in the aviation industry. Dive into the full article via our link in story! 🗞️
👩✈️ Pictured here is one of our nominees, @jessica.burch. From her first flight at 15, Jessica has soared above and beyond, not only mastering the skies but also championing for women in aviation. Being the sole female to commission in her Army ROTC class and one of only two flying Blackhawks from her Flight School course. Today, she’s a beacon in her MEDEVAC Unit in Sacramento, CA, standing as its only female aviator. Learn more about Jessica’s aviation journey @outstandingaviators
Know an inspiring pilot like Jessica? Or is that pilot YOU? Nominate or apply for our Outstanding Aviators 2024 Annual Awards and join us in celebrating diversity in the cockpit. 🛫✨ Or support us as a sponsor, and let's reshape aviation together!
#OutstandingAviators #DiversityInAviation
#AviationForAll #FlyDiverse #AviationInclusion #PilotsOfDiversity #EqualSkies #WomenInAviation #LGBTQAviators #MinorityPilots #FlightEquality #AviationChangeMakers
👩✈️ Pictured here is one of our nominees, @jessica.burch. From her first flight at 15, Jessica has soared above and beyond, not only mastering the skies but also championing for women in aviation. Being the sole female to commission in her Army ROTC class and one of only two flying Blackhawks from her Flight School course. Today, she’s a beacon in her MEDEVAC Unit in Sacramento, CA, standing as its only female aviator. Learn more about Jessica’s aviation journey @outstandingaviators
Know an inspiring pilot like Jessica? Or is that pilot YOU? Nominate or apply for our Outstanding Aviators 2024 Annual Awards and join us in celebrating diversity in the cockpit. 🛫✨ Or support us as a sponsor, and let's reshape aviation together!
#OutstandingAviators #DiversityInAviation
#AviationForAll #FlyDiverse #AviationInclusion #PilotsOfDiversity #EqualSkies #WomenInAviation #LGBTQAviators #MinorityPilots #FlightEquality #AviationChangeMakers
🐾 Another pawsome rescue story 📖 ~ Victoria and Kellen Darmody reached out to share the amazing journey of their precious pup, Chessie. Rescued during our 9/18/22 transport from Texas, this vibrant soul found her forever home with the Darmody family a few weeks later.
It's not just about saving a life; it's about creating countless cherished memories - from the very first meeting to birthday celebrations and everyday joys. Chessie's journey from Texas to bedtime snuggles, squirrel-watching sessions, and her special birthday moments perfectly captures this sentiment.
The happiness in the eyes of both the rescues and their families is the driving force behind every mission we undertake at PTTR. Swipe to witness Chessie's beautiful milestones with her loving family and be reminded of the profound joy that comes with choosing to adopt. 🐕❤️
To every family who has opened their home and heart, your stories inspire us daily. 🙏
#ChessiesJourney #RescueStory #pawsome #adoptdontshop #rescuedog #rescuepets #rescuepet #rescuepetsrock #rescueddogsrock #foreverfamily #furever #fureverhome #fureverlove #fureverfamily
It's not just about saving a life; it's about creating countless cherished memories - from the very first meeting to birthday celebrations and everyday joys. Chessie's journey from Texas to bedtime snuggles, squirrel-watching sessions, and her special birthday moments perfectly captures this sentiment.
The happiness in the eyes of both the rescues and their families is the driving force behind every mission we undertake at PTTR. Swipe to witness Chessie's beautiful milestones with her loving family and be reminded of the profound joy that comes with choosing to adopt. 🐕❤️
To every family who has opened their home and heart, your stories inspire us daily. 🙏
#ChessiesJourney #RescueStory #pawsome #adoptdontshop #rescuedog #rescuepets #rescuepet #rescuepetsrock #rescueddogsrock #foreverfamily #furever #fureverhome #fureverlove #fureverfamily
💌 Recently, we received a heartwarming message from Kaylan Bini, a pawesome member of our community. Their story with Tucker (formerly Honey Dew) is a testament to the magic of adoption and the ripple effect of love and kindness.
Tucker not only found his forever home with the Bini family but is now training to be a service dog! His journey from being one of the 17 dogs we rescued from Kentucky to becoming an integral part of a family of 6 showcases the transformative power of love and the impact of second chances.
The Bini family's gratitude reminds us why we do what we do. While our furry friends may not voice their thanks, the joy and love they bring to their adoptive families speak volumes. To every family that has found their fur-ever friend through our missions, thank you for opening your hearts and homes.
Swipe to read the full story from Kaylan, and let it inspire you to believe in the beauty of adoption. ❤️ #AdoptedDog #Adopted #TuckersJourney #adoptdontshop #rescuestory #rescueddogs #rescueddogsrock #cleartheshelters #emptytheshelters #thedodo
Tucker not only found his forever home with the Bini family but is now training to be a service dog! His journey from being one of the 17 dogs we rescued from Kentucky to becoming an integral part of a family of 6 showcases the transformative power of love and the impact of second chances.
The Bini family's gratitude reminds us why we do what we do. While our furry friends may not voice their thanks, the joy and love they bring to their adoptive families speak volumes. To every family that has found their fur-ever friend through our missions, thank you for opening your hearts and homes.
Swipe to read the full story from Kaylan, and let it inspire you to believe in the beauty of adoption. ❤️ #AdoptedDog #Adopted #TuckersJourney #adoptdontshop #rescuestory #rescueddogs #rescueddogsrock #cleartheshelters #emptytheshelters #thedodo
Every adoption has a story – sometimes it's not just us rescuing them, but them rescuing us. 🐾✨
Share your heartwarming tales of the fur baby that changed your life in the comments below. 💬
Let's spread the love, inspire more to #AdoptNotShop, and stay tuned! We'll be FEATURING some of YOUR touching stories on our page. 💕📖
#PetsThatRescuedUs #adoptdontshop #rescuedpet #rescuedog #rescuecat #rescuedogs #rescuecats #rescueddogsrock #doglover #catlover #rescuestory
Share your heartwarming tales of the fur baby that changed your life in the comments below. 💬
Let's spread the love, inspire more to #AdoptNotShop, and stay tuned! We'll be FEATURING some of YOUR touching stories on our page. 💕📖
#PetsThatRescuedUs #adoptdontshop #rescuedpet #rescuedog #rescuecat #rescuedogs #rescuecats #rescueddogsrock #doglover #catlover #rescuestory
Every mission we embark on, we're reminded of the many souls we could save with just a bit more space. Shown here, our brave volunteer pilots took to the skies, but with the Cessna Caravan, we could've rescued countless more lives on just this one flight. The difference between our current capacity and the Caravan's potential is immense. 🛩️💔
We're on a quest to reach our $250k fundraising goal by year-end but we are only 15% there. And here's the uplifting part: every dollar you donate will be matched, doubling the impact of your generosity! Help us ensure that no furry friend gets left behind. Click the link in our bio to be part of this monumental change. 🐾✨
#MoreSpaceMoreLives #DoubleTheImpact #MissionCaravan S/O to @petissimographicdesign for the caravan graphics ♥️
We're on a quest to reach our $250k fundraising goal by year-end but we are only 15% there. And here's the uplifting part: every dollar you donate will be matched, doubling the impact of your generosity! Help us ensure that no furry friend gets left behind. Click the link in our bio to be part of this monumental change. 🐾✨
#MoreSpaceMoreLives #DoubleTheImpact #MissionCaravan S/O to @petissimographicdesign for the caravan graphics ♥️
🚐 Swipe to check out the fresh wrap on our PTTR PAWTVAN! 🎉 🐾 Our volunteers will now be driving the message home - quite literally - inspiring many to #AdoptNotShop. Everywhere they journey, they'll spark conversations about rescue and adoption. What do you think of our new rolling billboard? 🐾✨ #PTTRPawtvanReveal #DriveWithPurpose
🚨 CALLING ALL RESCUE SHELTERS! 🚨 While we have wings ready to soar and carry precious lives to safety, our missions remain grounded without receiving shelters to welcome them. Numerous facilities are reaching out, desperate to spare their animals from the heartbreak of euthanasia. But to take flight, we need YOU.
If you're part of a shelter with space to spare, and a nurturing network of foster and adoption families, now's the time to partner with us for a life-saving mission! 🐾✈️
We need our community's help. TAG your trusted dog and cat shelters below and let's lift off together for a brighter future for these animals. 🐶🐱
The fur babies pictured here are available for adoption @mpanimalshelter 🏡♥️ #TakeFlightForFurries #ShelterHeroesNeeded #SaveLivesWithUs #PawsAwaitingLanding #AdoptDontShop #RescueConnection
If you're part of a shelter with space to spare, and a nurturing network of foster and adoption families, now's the time to partner with us for a life-saving mission! 🐾✈️
We need our community's help. TAG your trusted dog and cat shelters below and let's lift off together for a brighter future for these animals. 🐶🐱
The fur babies pictured here are available for adoption @mpanimalshelter 🏡♥️ #TakeFlightForFurries #ShelterHeroesNeeded #SaveLivesWithUs #PawsAwaitingLanding #AdoptDontShop #RescueConnection
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