It’s common for rescue dogs to travel from Southern states to the Midwest to increase their chances of being adopted, but those large-scale transfers are no easy task. However, despite the complications, animal rescuers always work hard to make sure the dogs arrive safely.
A plane carrying dogs from Louisiana to Wisconsin had to land just a few miles from its destination. Fortunately, the three people and 53 dogs on board all survived, but with some minor injuries and, of course, fear. Therefore, the local humane society must work to treat these dogs and prepare them for adoption.
Unexpected accident
A transport of 53 dogs was set to land at Waukesha County Airport on November 15, but the last part of the flight did not go smoothly. For unknown reasons, the plane landed shortly before reaching Waukesha. It crashed into the Western Lakes Golf Club in Pewaukee, Wisconsin, just a few miles from its destination.
The emergency landing sent debris flying and fuel spilling out, but miraculously everyone on board survived. Shelters and rescues expected to pick up incoming dogs rushed to the scene when they heard about the accident. One of the organizations, the Humane Animal Welfare Association (HAWS)planned to get 21 dogs.
The cause of the accident is still under investigation. Several golf club employees watched the twin-engine plane crash through the woods and land on the fifth hole of the course. Its wings were broken in the process, but fortunately, no one stood in its way as it fell to the ground.
“I mean starting with skepticism, but obviously the first question is, is everyone okay? And thankfully the answer is yes,” said Jason Heltz, manager of Western Lakes Golf Club.
The dogs continue their journey!
All dogs were soon taken to local shelters and rescues, where they were medically evaluated. Some dogs suffered minor injuries, but that’s all. Most of the dogs were adopted soon after the accident. After all they’ve been through, more than ever they deserve a loving home.
A dog named CeeCee went home to Tony Wasielewski, who was nearby when the plane crashed. As he went to help the passengers on the plane, CeeCee rushed into his arms and kissed him. So, after some deliberation, Wasielewski knew that the puppy must belong to his family. Many other dogs have also found new families after just a few days.
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“Just comforting them and taking care of them is a lot. Maggie Tate-Techtmann, director of HAWS, says every animal is different just like we are, so we will all react a little differently.
Immediately after the plane crash, HAWS started fundraising to raise money for the care of the dogs. In the end, they raised more than double their $5,000 goal. HAWS regularly accepts dogs from Southern states to give them a better chance of adoption. If you want to assist animals in their care, you can online donation.
