Pilots to the Rescue has been rescuing animals for several years. We actually got our dog from a rescue they did! I absolutely love the fact that their staff is made up of volunteer pilots and people who just want to send out the message that one can adopt an amazing pet instead of purchasing one in a pet shop. Their volunteers are always a phone call away, if one has any questions or just needs some resources about where they can find rescue pets. I hope they continue with this great work!
A beautiful organization saving our precious animals from being euthanized. Animals save souls and bring love to our lives! The organization is run by people with pure and good intentions.
I am one of the foster coordinators for Long Road Home Rescue, and assist other northern rescues in saving dogs from high kill shelters in North Carolina. PTTR has been such an incredible help and great to work with for both air and ground transport.
I am the foster/transport coordinator for Long Road Home Rescue. PTTR is one of our most reliable and dedicated transportation partners. With their help, we have been able to save 2-3x more dogs from NC/SC kill shelters. Huge thanks to Michael, Amy, Albert and all of the amazing, generous pilots who make saving rescue dogs so much easier. Pilots to the Rescue ROCKS!!!
There is an alarming number of abandoned and unwanted cats and dogs in southwest Virginia. Pilots to the Rescue has helped Wise County Humane Society transport numerous cats and kittens to New England where there is more demand for adoption. Amy Shaw of Pilots to the Rescue organizes these rescue missions with precision, great communication and a heart of gold. Road Warriors Albert and Adrian have made several long trips in the rescue van to carefully and lovingly transport cats and kittens all the way to New England. Even Pilots to the Rescue volunteer Fred Dombrow took a turn driving the rescue van. Our biggest thank you goes to Michael Schneider whose heart and vision has helped saved thousand of animals. When he flew into the airport to rescue our cats, not only was it lifesaving, but it helped boost the morale of our volunteers and maybe even inspired the children and grandchildren of our volunteers, who were so excited to see the rescue plane, continue this important rescue work into the future.
Here is a description of the last Pilots to the Rescue flight written by our Wise County Humane Society Executive Director, Julia Winston:
"On Sunday, March 10th, Michael Schneider, founder of Pilots To The Rescue, flew to the Lonesome Pine Airport in Wise with co-pilot Paul Mamauag and board of directors member and volunteer Kyle Kirschner to pick up cats. Strong winds blew across the airport on Sunday morning, and it was cold, so there was no small amount of apprehension mixed with excitement in the air as the crowd waited.
We learned that icy conditions had delayed the plane's departure by more than an hour, but thankfully the day was sunny. At last, we spotted the Pilots To The Rescue plane, and when it landed, the relief was palpable.
WCHS volunteers and members of the community gathered at the airport to welcome the pilots, including Wise County Humane Society's first executive director Judge Elizabeth Wills, former WCHS executive director Vicki Williams, Linda Fritsch of the Animal Defense League of Washington County, VA, and retired Air Force Lt. Col. and small plane pilot George Dean.
Cheers erupted as Paul, Kyle, and Michael stepped into the airport lobby. "Happy to be here," said Michael. "It was not an easy flight." When asked to tell us about it, Michael explained that he and the other pilots were recording some icing. There were a lot of clouds, he said, and it was bumpy underneath those clouds. (Those of us who were outside when the plane landed had seen the pilots breaking up the ice on the plane's wings.)
Michael took time to chat with us and answer questions from Kingsport Times-News reporter Mike Still and Coalfield Progress reporter Lisa Maine. Both newspapers featured front page stories: the Kingsport Times-News story on March 11th and the Coalfield Progress' story on March 12th. Michael informed us that Pilots To The Rescue have flown or driven more than 2,000 animals since the organization's founding in 2015.
One interesting detail from our conversations with Michael is that humans are able to travel comfortably at higher altitudes than our companion animals. The Pilots To The Rescue always fly at around 800 feet. If you go higher, Michael explained, dogs and cats will start to have trouble breathing. Flights at 800 feet tend to be more turbulent because they are subject to weather conditions.
As Michael wrapped up conversations with the reporters, Paul and Kyle organized Wise County Humane Society volunteers to help take cat carriers and lunch for the pilots to the plane. A procession to the plane followed.
As the plane taxied down the runway and lifted off, we were elated, thankful that the cats and kittens on board--many of whom had come from very sad situations--would be placed in safe, indoor-only homes in New England, with every possibility of living long and happy lives."
Pilots to the Rescue goes above and beyond to help rescue groups like myself. Their dedication is one of a kind. Volunteers are professional, timely, organized, trustworthy and wonderful with the animals in their care. Everything you would want from a group transporting animals you love. We never have to worry when our animals are in their care. They have helped us save hundreds of unwanted pets in NC and helped them on their journey to forever homes. We are so blessed to have their help and words cannot express our gratitude to this group.
I pull shelter dogs in Georgia and send them to various partner rescues. One of our partners is in northern New York and it is difficult to find transporters who will go there. Pilots to the Rescue has done two transports for me. Both times, they were kind, professional, and prompt. They delivered the dogs safely each time. I am grateful for Amy's dedication and Albert's willingness to drive so far north!
It was absolutely a joy and an honor to get to work with Amy, Michael and the whole crew at Pilots To The Rescue! We could not be more indebted to them. When our small rescue & Sanctuary heard of two disabled chickens at another rescue in North Carolina that needed to find homes in a place that would provide for their special needs, I reached out to PTTR thinking they likely wouldn't be able to help because so many transport companies won't help chickens... they just aren't considered "worth" helping by so many, even in the animal rescue field! But PTTR didn't hesitate for ONE SECOND. They jumped right in saying they'd love to help the birds (Schmoopie and Carol) and within weeks, after all proper paperwork and health checks had been procured, the birds were flown to a location in NJ where we could more easily pick them up and bring them to their new forever homes at our organization, The Institute for Animal Happiness. I was absolutely moved and blown away by the incredible professionalism, efficiency of their operation, dedication and the all-around commitment of PTTR to their mission. What they do, helping animals in need get to safety in such a unique way - and helping organizations like ours be able to step up for birds in need from farther away - - is so critical and important! We cannot recommend them highly enough!
It is an absolute honor and privilege to work with Pilots To The Rescue on a a daily basis. Whether it is by aircraft or via ground transport, the the PTTR team works tirelessly and cohesively with shelter and rescue organizations across the United States to save animals in jeopardy of euthanasia. We could not do what we do without the amazing volunteers within our organization and those out there in the field. It brings tears to my eyes every time I see a plane full of rescued animals take off and head to their second chance at life! Thank you for helping us save lives!
Love working with the team, Mike, Cheryl, and Amy are some of the hardest working professionals in the game and they make these successful missions seamless and they do it at such a great volume! Hoping to see last years total of 1029 animals saved smashed in 2024.
A family member had signed up to help support the animal’s rescue and told me about possibly helping driving I said sure. Helped pick up and drop off puppies was a great day so happy to helped and will in the future thank you
What can I say about PTTR? I finally found what lights me up! It took 40+ years and the covid pandemic to realize that this is my passion. I love running this organization and put my heart and soul into saving these furry souls. Thank you to all our loyal supporters! We need you! The animals need you!
I’ve first heard about PTTR through a fellow pilot who worked with them and shared her journey on social media. Fantastic organisation and great purpose!!
I flew with Pilots to Rescue from Essex, NJ to St. Cloud, MN. The trip was absolutely amazing! Amy and Michael worked so hard to logistically make the trip work with my schedule and make everything happen. The entire trip was just perfect, from the accommodations to the airplane. Jason + Viking made the trip so so much fun and are such professional and competent pilots. This is an incredible non-profit I was so glad to be apart of, would absolutely work with them again!
Pilots to the Rescue is an amazing organization giving animals a second chance at life. I had the fortunate opportunity to fly with them on a rescue mission to Kentucky and it was the greatest honor of my life!
I am the dad of @Larrygreatdane and my family and I were able to meet with this amazing organization and learn first hand out they operate. We were truly amazing on how they put forth extremely hard work and dedication to save animals. From flight plans, securing health certificates to fixing and working around expensive break downs, they don’t let anything stop them. The world needs more people like Michael and his team. Truly one of the best most dedicated rescue teams out there. I am beyond honored to have had the chance to meet them.
I flew for hire for over 50 years. I carried organs for transplant, NFL teams, dignitaries, military charters, rock stars, guide dogs in training and millions of wonderful passengers. I am retired from commercial and military aviation. My wife and I are so impressed with the lifesaving flights for cats and dogs being flown by Pilots to the Rescue. They are doing amazing work and we support them financially to the best of our abilities while being retired. Their work is incredible and they are so deserving of recognition. I can’t imagine what would happen to so many of these beautiful deserving animals without the essential flights being made by Pilots to the Rescue.
I am a teacher in New Jersey who oversees the student council of our elementary school. Last year we started a fundraiser called Pennie’s for Puppies for a local animal rescue and I became aware of PTTR as they flew up our sponsored litter of puppies from Texas. This past summer with the same rescue PTTR flew up another special litter of puppies for another group I was associated with and I was able to learn more about the rescue from their segment on the Today Show. When making our long range student council plans, I introduced my students to the idea of helping PTTR this year and they were excited. When discussing our fundraiser with Michael, I made a special request: “if my students raise enough money to sponsor a slight will you please include the Amazing Mutts Puppy Rescue on the flight (since they were the reason we found out about PTTR” and he happily obliged and our rescue mission will be on June 9th.
Michael was so very appreciative of our students donation, which in turn has helped them see the value of helping others and being heroes in saving animals lives.
I’ve been involved in the rescue of dogs, cats and wildlife for decades and have dealt with many rescues, some better than others. The RescueRider.com is my personal rescue that I started 16 years ago and we contribute miles by riding a bike or walking and donors receive a mile for every dollar they donate. Our newest team member is a Golden Retriever named Ridley who averages 20 miles a week. Pilots to the Rescue donate their miles in the sky and have done an outstanding job in the rescue of dogs and cats totaling over one thousand who they have flown from and to a variety of states. In my opinion as a long time animal rescuer, they are not only unique but committed, successful, compassionate and relentless even in the face of a frightening mechanical issue, determined to see every trip through to completion. Also in photos and videos they always look like they are having fun doing it!
As a volunteer for Amazing Mutts Puppy Rescue I see the challenges of being involved in saving dogs and finding them homes. Pilots to the Rescue provides a quicker and less stressful transportation for dogs located hours away. This helps the new dogs decompress faster in Foster and be availablefor adoption to their new homes sooner. Their help is invaluable to our organization
As one of the pilots for Pilots To The Rescue I can say getting involved with this organization is one of the best things I’ve ever done. In the past 4 months I’ve had the pleasure of rescuing HUNDREDS of animals. All of this is made possible by our donors. Michael Schneider has done an incredible job setting up this charity and making inroads with the various shelters and foster homes we collaborate with. Pilots To The Rescue is fully committed to rescuing as many animals as possible as quickly as possible.
As founder, executive director and Top Dog Pilot I can say without a doubt this is the most rewarding work of my life. They say that animals rescue us, not the other way around. This sentiment has guided me through this work and it is truly an honor to be at the helm of this organization!
There are tons of nonprofit animal organizations in the states but PTTR really stands out to me. I had the pleasure of volunteering with their wonderful team and was absolutely taken away by how wonderful the whole organization is. Not only are they professional, but very personable. The entire team cares so deeply about each individual animal and it shows through their hard work and genuine character. I highly recommend donating your time and/or money to this wonderful organization.
Pilots to the Rescue is an amazing nonprofit. I worked with them on one of their rescue missions as an influencer. Both Michael and Brielle are very supportive. The rescue mission was definitely an unforgettable and heartwarming experience. I appreciate what they are doing and I am beyond thankful to be a part of their mission.
Flying with Pilots To The Rescue was the most special flight I have ever taken. As a Delta Flight Attendant I have the honor to travel the world and meet people from all walks of life and as a Private Pilot I love that I have the opportunity to fly. So this experience coupling my love for aviation and helping save the lives of these animals was the most fulfilling project I have been a part of. On the mission I flew with PTTR, 15 of the puppies we transported were found in a dumpster and today thanks to PTTR they are finding their forever homes. There are so many ways to help PTTR grow and continue reaching their missions with your help. This organization is organized, focused, and so much fun to be a part of. I highly recommend in any capacity you can donate whether it's time or a monetary donation. No amount is to small when it comes to helping save the lives of countless animals and helping pilots come to the rescue!
I won a tag along on a rescue mission as a result of running a fundraiser on their behalf on social media. Rescue mission day was exciting, rewarding, and exceptional in attention to details. The animals and I both had the red carpet treatment. I am a pilot for a legacy airline and can additionally attest to Michael’s pilot and logistic management skills - all with a smile. Five star experience and I support Pilots To The Rescue at every turn I can!
I accompanied Pilots To The Rescue as a volunteer co-pilot on a mission from Essex County Airport to Charlottesville, Virginia to rescue no less than 8 fully-grown dogs. The skill that Michael demonstrated as a pilot paired with his compassionate heart are what makes this organization so successful. It was truly heartwarming to see how much time and thought goes into each rescue mission, and I’m blown away by how many flights Michael and the PTTR team conduct every single week. When he’s not flying, Michael is actively fundraising on social media and raising awareness about the charity. Non-profits like Pilots to the Rescue are what makes the world a better place!
This organization helps save animals that would otherwise not have a second chance love to see all the work they’re doing.
PTTR is an incredibly well thought out organization. Its team are dedicated professionals that are making impactful change in the world. I would highly recommend this not for profit.
Michael and his team at PTTR are incredible! I interviewed him on my podcast (The Captain’s Lifestyle) and I love what he was created. You can tell that this is his passion and it truly fulfills him. I look forward to supporting their continued growth and success!
We simply cannot say thank you enough to Pilots to the Rescue for saving our pup and his entire family. Michael and the PTR team are the hardest working, most passionate people about fulfilling their mission to give so many deserving animals a second chance at finding their forever homes. They are truly wonderful people and we are so lucky that they helped bring Truitt into our lives - we are so thankful for PTR every single day.
Pilots To The Rescue is a wonderful organization that goes above and beyond to offer their transport services to animals and people at risk. They have rescued an amazing number of dogs, puppies, cats, and kittens from being euthanized. They have also helped transport endangered animals such as sea turtles and the red wolf. I admire their passion and enthusiasm for saving so many lives and this organization inspires me to do more and get involved! Keep up the great work PTTR!
Pilots To The Rescue is an amazing organization that is passionate about saving animals. I enjoy seeing all the animals they rescue on their missions. I applaud their giving hearts, tireless efforts, and generosity towards so many other animal rescues.
I love Pilots To The Rescue, and their great cause. The have great organization members, including their founder, Michael. Michael is very invested and passionate and I love that when it comes non-profits.
My experience on a rescue flight with PTTR is one I will never forget! We saved 14 cats and 5 dogs! I couldn't believe how sweet and well-behaved all of the animals were. They knew they were being rescued, and I was honored to be a part of that. My life mission is to save as many animals as possible, so partnering with PTTR was so rewarding.
They are always looking for more influencers to join them on rescue missions, below is the link to volunteer!!
➡️ PilotsToTheRescue.org/volunteer-as-an-influencer
Please help this amazing organization by donating anything you can and reminding others to adopt, not shop.
Great resource to help unwanted pets get from overpopulated areas of the South to New England. Thanks for all you do! So far in 2021 they have helped us get about 70 cats out of North Carolina to our rescue partner in New Hampshire. It is wonderful to have such dedication from the pilots and volunteers in PTTR. Great organization!
It was the best experience!!
Getting to be a passenger on a plane, flying to Knoxville and getting the 13 dogs on board back to Jersey, AMAZING. I would do it again 100 more times. Just to know these animals are going to be safe and will find a home ! This organization is the best.
