Pilot’s Mission to Save 145 Shelter Animals During Hurricanes Leads to Adopting a Kitten

In the wake of Hurricanes Helene and Milton, Southwest Airlines captain Matthew Prebish took on an emergency mission to save 145 shelter animals displaced by the storms. On October 12, Prebish piloted a rescue flight from South Carolina to Milwaukee, coordinated by Greater Good Charities, Southwest Airlines, and Lucky Dog Animal Rescue, bringing the animals to safety with the help of 60 volunteers.

After landing, Prebish met the animal passengers face-to-face and felt an immediate connection with one—a four-month-old kitten named Avery. Drawn to her adventurous spirit, he decided to adopt her, bringing her home to join his three other pets in Texas.

For those interested in adopting one of the rescued animals, they’re currently available through several Midwest shelters, including Humane Animal Welfare Society and Dane County Humane Society.