The Power of One: How saving one animal can save 15
At Lucky Dog Animal Rescue, we know that a single act of kindness creates ripples that reach far beyond that moment and that person. A perfect example of this happened recently on our emergency rescue airlift that has captured hearts nationwide. When Southwest Airlines Captain Matt Prebish volunteered to fly 145 Lucky Dogs and Cats who had been displaced by Hurricanes Helene and Milton to safety, he never anticipated that he would find love at 30,000 feet. Yet, by volunteering to fly one charity flight, Matt found a cherished new family member and set an incredible example for prospective pet parents across the country.
What makes this story so inspiring is the profound connection that formed between Matt and Avery, one of the rescued kittens. It’s a beautiful reminder that sometimes, the most unexpected moments can lead to life-changing decisions. Prebish wasn’t just helping with logistics that day as he set out to do; he was creating a lasting bond and saving an animal headed to a shelter in hopes of finding a new family. Not only did he give Avery a fabulous new home, but he also gave the shelter the incredible gift of an empty cage – and the capacity to help one more animal.
The domino effect of Matt’s actions doesn’t stop there. His adoption story inspires us to think about how small acts—whether adopting, fostering, or volunteering—can make a tremendous difference in the lives of countless animals.
At Lucky Dog Animal Rescue, we are constantly reminded that the human-animal connection is incredibly powerful. It’s not just about finding animals homes; it’s about the mutual love and companionship that form when an animal and their person find each other. The connection when you adopt a dog, cat, puppy, or kitten is incredibly profound because they seem to know that you have saved their life. And the life of the pet that gets to come into the empty cage you have created.
Stories like Captain Matt and Avery remind us that saving one animal saves an exponential number of lives. Avery is now safe, loved, and home with Captain Prebish, his wife, their son Jeff, and their Golden Retriever Wrigley. However, the space she left behind in the shelter will allow another lucky animal to have the same chance.
Be Like Matt. Adopt, don’t shop.
Create the chain reaction that enables us to continue providing love, care, and homes for needy animals. Whether you foster, adopt, or volunteer, you can save countless lives. It all starts with one single act.