‍DALLAS — Responding to the California wildfire crisis, Southwest Airlines (WN) on February 1 partnered with Greater Good Charities to evacuate more than 100 shelter pets from Long Beach, CA, to Portland, OR. 

The airline donated space on the flight to accommodate injured and lost pets, assisting the global nonprofit in its efforts to support communities devastated by the wildfires. 

"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," said Liz Baker, CEO of Greater Good Charities. "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 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,” said Laura Nieto, Managing Director of Corporate Responsibility at Southwest Airlines. “When disaster happens, Southwest Employees put their Hearts in action to help impacted communities and make a positive impact to assist those in need."

In October, in response to Hurricanes Helene and Milton, WN worked with Greater Good Charities and Lucky Dog Animal Rescue to deliver humanitarian supplies to North Carolina communities in crisis and operate an emergency airlift of 145 shelter pets impacted by the storms.

A Service Ready Before LA fires

According to Greater Good, the shelter pets flown on the California emergency flight were in the care of the shelters and rescues in Los Angeles County before the outbreak of the fires.

The airlift created space at LA-area animal welfare organizations to accommodate lost and injured pets and allow impacted families to be reunited with their pets. The animal welfare organizations that send pets on this emergency flight include the County of Los Angeles Department of Animal Care & Control and COPE Preparedness.

Local licensed veterinarians examined the shelter pets before the flight and provided health certificates needed for travel. The medical director and lead veterinarian for Greater Good Charities also accompanied the shelter pets on the flight.  

The animals were received at the Oregon Humane Society. Upon arrival in Portland, OR, the shelter pets were quickly transported from the airport to the shelter, where they would be evaluated and receive any necessary follow-up medical care.

Information on Greater Good Charities can be found on their website.

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