Panhandle Businesses Team Up to Prove Dogs Can Fly!

May 23, 2010 - PRLog -- Trina, a delightful 28 lb black and white Aussie Shepherd mix who was recently picked up by Jackson County Animal Control, has a new foster home in Central Florida thanks to a network of volunteers and local businesses.  After an exciting journey by car and air from the Florida Panhandle to Central Florida, Trina is now well on her way to finding her “forever” home.  

Jackson County Animal Control rescued Trina as a stray and transferred her to Northwest Florida Animal Control who works with rescue groups helping reunite lost dogs with their owners and re-homing stray dogs.  Because Trina is an Aussie Shepherd, Northwest Florida Animal Control notified New Spirit 4 Aussie Rescue, a breed rescue group active throughout the US.  Niki Tudge, the local New Spirit representative, brought little Trina into her home so she could undergo preliminary medical treatment.  As is commonly found with stray dogs in Florida, Trina was diagnosed with heartworm.  The Panhandle Veterinarian Clinic, in Chipley FL, performed Trina’s physical exam and spaying and started her initial heartworm treatment.  Once Trina had recovered from her operation, local DogSmith Dog Trainer, Bethany Jordan assisted with Trina’s care by assessing her suitability for adoption and providing basic obedience training to help prepare Trina for her new life.  

Once Trina was ready to travel, Jordan transported her to the Bonifay FL Regional Airport where Trina was picked up by Pilots ‘n Paws pilot Rebekah Swenson and copilot.  Pilots ‘n Paws is a volunteer group of pilots who assist dog rescue organizations by flying dogs to destinations more optimal for fostering or adoption.  Pilots ‘n Paws play a key role transporting dogs in need of foster homes to locations where foster homes are available.

Swenson then flew Trina to Tallahassee where Pilots Elliot Mintzer and Ray Hall took over for the last leg of the journey to St Augustine.  Trina was met planeside in St. Augustine by New Spirit Director Kim Litz who drove Trina to her home where she will complete her heartworm therapy and await adoption.

Thanks to the incredible organization, cooperation and effort by New Spirit 4 Aussie, Jackson County and Northwest Florida Animal Control, The Panhandle Vet Clinic, The DogSmith and Paws ‘n Pilots, Trina is well on her way to bringing joy and laughter into any family lucky enough to adopt her.  If you would like more information on New Spirit 4 Aussie and to check on Trina’s progress or contribute to her heartworm treatment please visit http://newspirit4aussierescue.org/

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The DogSmith is America's Dog Training, Dog Walking and Pet Sitting Franchise. Founded by Niki Tudge in 2007 the DogSmith aims to offer affordable and professional care to family pets so that pet ownership is never a burden