Airline Pilot Adopts Homeless Kitten Mid-Flight After Hurricane Evacuation

A heartwarming rescue story that took flight!

As Hurricane Milton approached, shelters scrambled to evacuate animals from the danger zone. Lucky Dog Animal Rescue and Greater Good Charities worked together. With support from Southwest Airlines, they organized a rescue mission. This mission transported 145 homeless cats and dogs from Florida to safety in Milwaukee.

In this touching operation, the animals weren’t just cargo—they were passengers, riding alongside humans in the airplane cabin. According to Mirah Horowitz, CEO of Lucky Dog Animal Rescue, the experience was “magical.” The animals found comfort in the company of the Southwest crew.

Among the crew was Captain Matt Prebish, a Southwest pilot who was immediately drawn to a tiny kitten named Avery. Little did Prebish know, this flight would change his life.

“I was captivated by her energy and curiosity,” Prebish shared in a press release. Mid-flight, he realized something unexpected: he couldn’t bear to part ways with Avery.

Although Prebish hadn’t set out to adopt a pet that day, his wife wasn’t surprised. “She knew when I accepted this mission, I’d likely bring home an animal,” he joked.

Upon landing, a brief storm kept the passengers waiting on the plane for about 20 minutes. This was the perfect window for Prebish to call his wife, who enthusiastically approved of the new addition. With her blessing, Prebish officially adopted Avery right on the plane, with the help of the shelter team.

“It wasn’t planned,” Horowitz admitted. “There was a bit of a scramble to get the adoption paperwork in order, but we made it happen!”

Prebish flew home to Denver with his new furry companion. Both he and Avery were relieved to have found each other during such a challenging time. Avery now has a forever home, thanks to this spontaneous and heartwarming adoption.

This operation gave Captain Prebish a new family member. It also helped make space in Florida shelters for pets affected by the hurricane.

“I’m grateful we could help,” Prebish said. “These animals deserve loving homes, and I’m honored to have made a difference.”

Looking to adopt a pet? Learn more about pet adoption through Lucky Dog Animal Rescue or your local shelter. Every animal deserves a chance at a forever home.