Even in mid November we have perfect weather for flying. Clear skies and mild temps make these rescue flights more enjoyable for both pups and people. On Sunday, I had the opportunity to bring a sweet and energtic Irish Setter from Michigan to their forever home near Kansas City. I met the Foster transport crew at my hometown and spent some time with my parents. As we were parking the Mooney, I see my dad being drug around the grassy area by this ball of fur on a leash. For a moment I wondered if a crate would have been a good idea.
Knowing how energetic a young Irish Setter can be, I brought my daughter Madeline along to help keep her calm and safe for the 3 hour trip. She did great in keeping Harleen occupied by running around and getting her used to us while I loaded and fueled up. After a little encouragement, Harleen hopped right in and plopped down in the back seat. I spent a couple minutes petting and talking to her as I knew she was a bit unsure of this new ‘car’.
Thankfully, the flight was very smooth and after 20 minutes at cruise she laid down and relaxed. Madeline was very good at being attentive and reassuring her the whole trip. I’d like to have some Mutt Muffs ear protectors to try. Single engine airplanes are loud by nature and it might help them be less nervous. Christmas list item!
The rest of the flight was sightseeing, telling stories, and talking about life. A funny thing happened when we parked and shut down. As Madeline was trying to get the door open, Harleen started barking at her as if to say “Hurry up! I want out!” Which made opening the door while giggling even more challenging.
While messing with the door, Harleen’s new family had walked up to the plane. She went right to them barking and wagging her tail. It’s so heartwarming to see how happy everyone was right away. The staff at Midwest National Airport provided her with a water bowl and made sure we were taken care of.
The trip home was a quick one due to a nice tailwind at 9500ft. Nearing St Louis controlled airspace, I was hoping to hear those magic words “Cleared into the Bravo airspace”. YES! That made a straight shot across St Louis to my home airport on the east side. Our ATC in St Louis does a great job of accommodating when they are able. We overflew Lambert Airport, watched a airliner land, and saw the hospital that I had worked at. 10 minutes later we were putting the Ruff-Air Mooney back in the hangar. It was a long day for us but it was full of happiness and pride in another successful mission for Pilots and Paws. As a bonus, we made happy memories for everyone!
