Greater Good Charities and Southwest Airlines Team Up to Fly Over 100 Shelter Pets to Safety
In the wake of the devastating Greater Los Angeles Wildfires, Greater Good Charities, in collaboration with Southwest Airlines®, launched an emergency airlift operation to rescue over 100 shelter pets. These animals were transported from Long Beach, California, to Portland, Oregon, on a Southwest aircraft, a flight donated to help alleviate the strain on shelters overwhelmed by the disaster. This effort provided critical space for injured and lost pets, assisting impacted communities as they begin the long road to recovery.
Greater Good Charities has consistently demonstrated its commitment to aiding communities affected by disasters, offering substantial support to both humans and animals. Liz Baker, CEO of Greater Good Charities, emphasized the organization’s dedication to long-term recovery efforts. “Greater Good Charities is proud to once again partner with Southwest Airlines to support communities impacted by the recent devastating wildfires in the Greater Los Angeles area. We remain dedicated to providing long-term support to these communities, delivering millions of dollars in aid to help the people and animals of Los Angeles County on their difficult road to recovery.”
Southwest Airlines has been an instrumental partner in these efforts. Laura Nieto, Managing Director of Corporate Responsibility at Southwest Airlines, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to disaster relief and animal rescue. “Southwest has been proud to partner with Greater Good Charities over the past year-and-a-half to transport more than 400 animals to find their forever homes in the wake of recent disasters. When disaster happens, Southwest Employees put their Hearts in action to help impacted communities and make a positive impact to assist those in need.”
Before the fires, the transported pets were already in the care of various shelters and rescues across Los Angeles County. The emergency flight helped clear much-needed space in these organizations, allowing them to accommodate an influx of lost and injured pets due to the wildfires. By creating room in these shelters, affected families had a better chance of reuniting with their displaced animals. Participating organizations that facilitated the transport included the County of Los Angeles Department of Animal Care & Control and COPE Preparedness.
On February 1, the rescue operation was put into action. The Greater Good Charities team, alongside Southwest Airlines employees, worked diligently to load more than 100 shelter pets onto the flight at Long Beach Airport. Ensuring the safety and health of these animals was a top priority; therefore, local licensed veterinarians conducted thorough medical examinations before departure, issuing the necessary health certificates for interstate travel. The mission was further supported by Greater Good Charities’ medical director and lead veterinarian, who accompanied the animals to oversee their well-being during the flight.
The Oregon Humane Society in Portland, Oregon, served as the receiving shelter for these animals. Upon arrival at Portland International Airport, the pets were promptly transported to the facility, where they underwent additional evaluations and received any necessary follow-up medical care. Once they were deemed ready for adoption, these pets were made available to loving homes, ensuring they had a second chance at life in a safe and supportive environment.
Greater Good Charities operates responsibly, ensuring all transported shelter pets are moved to locations where there is a demand for adoptable animals. By coordinating with receiving shelters, the organization not only provides opportunities for the relocated pets but also helps sustain balanced adoption rates within the communities they serve. All shelter pet transports are conducted in compliance with USDA interstate regulations, ensuring ethical and safe relocation practices.
The partnership between Southwest Airlines and Greater Good Charities has been instrumental in animal rescue efforts following natural disasters. Their collaboration extends beyond the recent wildfires, as they have previously executed rescue missions in response to hurricanes, including Hurricanes Helene and Milton, as well as the devastating Maui Wildfires. Over the past 18 months alone, Southwest Airlines and Greater Good Charities have successfully transported over 400 animals to new homes, demonstrating an ongoing commitment to supporting communities in times of crisis.
The impact of such partnerships cannot be overstated. Natural disasters displace thousands of pets, leaving them vulnerable and in need of urgent care. By providing transportation and logistical support, organizations like Greater Good Charities and Southwest Airlines create life-saving opportunities for animals that might otherwise face euthanasia or prolonged stays in overcrowded shelters. The initiative not only helps individual animals find new homes but also aids communities in focusing their resources on recovery efforts without the added strain of an overwhelmed animal welfare system.
Looking forward, Greater Good Charities remains committed to emergency response efforts, continuously seeking innovative ways to support communities and animals in distress. Whether through pet transport, disaster relief aid, or long-term rehabilitation programs, the organization strives to ensure that pets and their owners receive the necessary assistance during times of crisis.
As climate change increases the frequency and severity of natural disasters, proactive disaster response strategies become even more crucial. The partnership between Southwest Airlines and Greater Good Charities serves as a model for corporate social responsibility, demonstrating how businesses and nonprofits can work together to make a tangible difference. Through collective action and compassionate initiatives, they exemplify the power of teamwork in rebuilding lives and restoring hope.
Ultimately, the success of this airlift mission underscores the vital role that collaboration plays in disaster response and animal welfare. The more than 100 shelter pets transported to Portland now have a chance at a brighter future, all thanks to the unwavering commitment of organizations that prioritize the well-being of both humans and animals alike. As efforts continue to evolve, such initiatives will remain essential in providing relief and recovery for communities devastated by natural disasters.