Koda, a deaf and blind 3 month old Australian Shepherd, arrived at the Rogue Valley Humane Society on 5/17. He was brought in by a young man who became alarmed when a friend who owned the puppy said that he was going to leave him in the forest because he couldn’t take care of him.

This good samaritan took the puppy home, but his parents realized that Koda needed more care than they could give him so they brought him into RVHS where he received his wellness check, vaccinations, flea treatment, worming and neutering. Not many people know how to deal with deaf and blind dogs. In March we had a blind stray black lab, Frankie, whose owners, even after being contacted, didn’t want him back. We were so fortunate to hear from Cristene and Duane Justus of the Double J Dog Ranch in Post Falls, Idaho. They have a beautiful sanctuary for deaf and blind dogs and they wanted Frankie!

They knew about Pilots N Paws and set up the details for flying Frankie out to Idaho. So when Koda arrived, naturally we thought of them and to our delight, Koda was wanted, and again, Pilots N Paws stepped in to fly him to his new home. On Sunday, June 2nd, staff, volunteers and board members waited at the airport for Koda’s ride. We played with Koda, took pictures and felt happy that he would now have the best care possible. When pilot Pat landed he immediately went to Koda and cuddled him, letting him know that he had a new friend. After more photos, Koda was placed in his carrier with his toys on the little plane and then they were off the ground and on their way.

Thank you, Pilots N Paws for caring so deeply about animals in need. You have a very fine organization of committed people helping with critical transportation that would not otherwise happen for the most forsaken animals in our care.

Mary Jane
Rogue Valley Humane Society Board Member