Have you ever dreamt of making a difference in a furry friend’s life?
Do you travel and have a heart overflowing with love for animals?
A Flight Angel is a traveller who brings an adopted rescue dog with them on their flight home from Puerto Escondido or Huatulco, Mexico. It costs you nothing: Huellitas de Acero pays for the dog’s ticket, prepares all the paperwork, and meets you at the airport, and the dog’s new family meets you when you land.
Most of our dogs are flying to families in Canada and the USA, and we need Flight Angels all year round so that these sweet dogs can get to their forever families.
Is Being a Flight Angel Right for Me?
I have a valid airline ticket departing from Puerto Escondido (PXM) or Huatulco (HUX), Mexico, with sufficient carry-on allowance to accommodate the dog’s travel crate.
This includes flights departing from Puerto Escondido (PXM) or Huatulco (HUX).
I am willing to volunteer my time for this service.
This is completely voluntary – there’s no payment involved and no cost to you.
I can arrive early for airport check-in (2 hours before departure) and spend some additional time at my destination airport to hand over the dog to their new family.
I am comfortable being listed on the travel paperwork as the dog’s temporary owner until the adopters receive their new pet.
I have a genuine love for animals and a willingness to care for them during the trip.
I’m comfortable following airline regulations and safety protocols related to pet transportation.
I am at least 18 years old.
Why Become a Flight Angel?
Becoming a Flight Angel is an incredibly rewarding experience. You’ll witness firsthand the power of adoption and play a pivotal role in a heartwarming story.
- Make a Real Difference: Your willingness to share a bit of space on your flight directly impacts the life of a deserving dog. You’ll be the reason they get a second chance at happiness in a loving forever home.
- Witness the Joy of Adoption: There’s nothing quite like seeing the pure joy of a rescued dog meeting their new family for the first time. You’ll be a part of that unforgettable moment and the start of a beautiful new chapter.
- Travel with a Purpose: Turn your next trip into a meaningful adventure. Instead of just visiting a new destination, you’ll be a hero on a mission to reunite a dog with their loving family.
- Simple & Rewarding: Becoming a Flight Angel is a straightforward process. We handle the logistics, so you can focus on the joy of the experience.
If you don’t know what a flight angel is, it’s when you volunteer with a dog shelter to take a dog on a flight to it’s new adopted home on your way back from vacation.
When you travel, check with nearby dog shelters and ask if they need a flight angel to your home town. They are always so desperate for them; they and the adopted doggie parents will be forever grateful to you.
It’s how I give back to the community I’ve been visiting. It doesn’t cost you anything and the shelter takes care of everything, it’s super easy! You just have to love dogs. 🙂
What is a Flight Angel?
Flight Angels are compassionate individuals who volunteer to safely transport a rescued dog from shelters like Huellitas de Acero A.C. in Puerto Escondido to their forever families where they live – Canada, United States, Australia, UK and elsewhere. These dogs have found loving homes, but they need your help to get there.
Most dogs travel in the cabin with you, in a small soft carrier at your feet, and many sleep the whole flight.
The Flight Angel Process: A Step-by-Step Guide
Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect when you become a Flight Angel.
STEP 1: Express Your Interest
The first step is to express your interest. Complete this form to volunteer as a flight angel. Thanks in advance!
STEP 2: Matching & Information
Once we receive your inquiry, we’ll match you with a suitable dog based on your flight details and the dog’s size. When a match is confirmed, we’ll organize every detail – from the dog’s health check and vaccinations to their flight booking.
We go the simplest route and use the Personal Pet paperwork. You’ll initially be listed as the dog’s ‘owner’ and the dog as your ‘personal pet’ on travel paperwork, which you’ll use for the flight and at customs. After arriving, the adopters will meet you, take their new dog, and update the ownership papers accordingly. You are only listed as the owner temporarily.
We’ll also provide you with comprehensive information about the process, including airline regulations, paperwork requirements, and what to expect at the airport.
We’ll typically set up a WhatsApp group with you, the Adopter, and the Dog Rescuer to keep everyone informed and connected.
STEP 3: Meet & Greet
We’ll arrange to meet you at the airport 2 hours before takeoff so that you can meet the dog you’ll be transporting, and we’ll stay there with you until you’re checked in. This allows you to get acquainted with your furry companion and ensures a smooth travel experience. We’ll bring a travel bag/crate, collar, leash, pee pad, and all required paperwork. Paperwork will have your name on it as you are traveling with the dog. We provide a digital copy of the dog’s flight confirmation.
Want to spend some time with the dogs at the Rescue before travel? We’re always thrilled to have volunteers to help out at Huellitas de Acero if you’re in Puerto Escondido. It’s a great way to spend a day!
STEP 4: Adios!
Enjoy your flight with your furry friend! Once you land at your destination and clear customs you will be met by either the adopting family, a foster family or a representative from one of the international rescue organizations we work with. Don’t worry – you’ll know who you’ll be meeting in advance, and a predetermined location.
This is the moment you’ve been waiting for – a celebration of love, second chances, and the power of your kindness.
What We Provide On The Big Day!
A dog that’s fit for adoption, according to our criteria (and excited to go to his/her new home!)
A representative from our organization at the airport with you to support you with the check-in process
An IATA approved travel crate with a pee pad inside
Two copies of the dog’s travel ID – one will be fixed to the outside of the crate, the other is for you to keep with you
Certificate of Health and vaccination, in English and Spanish (plus copies)
Screw worm certificate (plus copies) – only for US flights
The dog’s vaccination booklet (plus copies)
A digital confirmation of the dog’s ticket for the flight (plus copies)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Becoming a Flight Angel
How do I sign up to become a Flight Angel for Huellitas de Acero?
Book your flight home from Puerto Escondido or Huatulco, then fill in the Flight Angel form. We’ll match you with a dog that fits your airline and route. Here are the full steps.
Why is there a need for Flight Angels to transport dogs from Mexico?
Because adopted dogs can’t fly on their own.
There are many loving homes waiting abroad, but dogs in Mexico often face fewer adoption opportunities. These dogs have often been abused, neglected, and fought for their lives on the streets before finding refuge at a shelter in Mexico – like Huellitas de Acero.
Many of our dogs have been adopted by families in Canada and the US, and each one needs a traveller to bring it home. The more dogs we can send home, the more dogs we can rescue from the streets of Puerto Escondido.Flight Angels make life-changing journeys possible.
Can I fly with a dog as a volunteer from Mexico to Canada, the US, or other countries? What international travel regulations apply to flying with a rescue dog?
Yes! Once matched with a dog, you’ll receive all necessary documents and a travel kit at the airport from our representative. You’ll be listed as the dog’s temporary owner for travel paperwork. After arriving at your destination, the adopter meets you at the airport to receive the dog and update the ownership papers. We handle logistics and support you throughout the journey.
You must comply with airline regulations about carry-on size and pet travel, as well as customs requirements for the destination country. Huellitas de Acero will ensure all health certificates and export permits are completed so you have the correct paperwork for customs and airline staff.
Can I transport large or small dogs as a Flight Angel?
The size of the dog you can transport depends on the specific airline’s carry-on size restrictions and the dog’s travel crate dimensions. We’ll match you with a suitable dog based on your flight details.
Am I responsible for any special paperwork or documents when transporting a rescue dog internationally?
No. We prepare every document and bring it to the airport. You just keep the copies with you. We’ll handle obtaining all necessary documents, including health certificates and export permits, to ensure a smooth customs process.
Is it legal for me to temporarily be named as a dog’s owner on travel documents?
Yes. For the simplest paperwork and to avoid extra tax costs, you’re temporarily listed as the dog’s owner and the dog as your personal pet. This designation is only for travel – ownership changes to the adopter after you arrive.
What health and vaccination requirements do rescue dogs need for travel to Canada/US/other?
We handle all of them.
Dogs must undergo health checks and receive all required vaccinations. You will receive certificates of health and vaccination (in English and Spanish), screw worm certificates (for US flights), and the dog’s full vaccination booklet – all provided by Huellitas de Acero.
What should I expect on the day I travel as a Flight Angel?
You’ll meet our representative at the airport two hours before your flight and be provided with the dog, travel crate, documents, and supplies. During travel, you care for the dog as your own pet. On arrival, the adopter or a foster will meet you at a predetermined location at the destination airport. Here’s what we provide on the big day.
What should I do if the dog needs a bathroom break or has an accident during the flight?
We’ll provide you with a travel kit that includes absorbent pads and waste disposal bags. Most airlines allow for brief bathroom breaks during layovers, and we’ll guide you through this process.
What happens if my flight is delayed or canceled while I’m transporting a rescue dog?
We’ll handle it with you. We have a network of volunteers and partner organizations who can help care for the dog in case of unexpected delays. Our priority is the well-being of the dog, and we’ll ensure they are safe and comfortable until they are at their final destination.
Can I bring my own pet on the flight if I’m also volunteering as a Flight Angel for a rescue dog?
Airline policies regarding traveling with multiple pets can vary. It’s best to check with your chosen airline directly to inquire about their specific regulations.
Does becoming a Flight Angel mean my flight is paid for?
No… we pay for the dog’s flight, but not the flight angels. This is not an opportunity for a free trip (however that would be cool!) – it’s an opportunity to help a rescue to their furever home.
Are there any age restrictions or requirements for becoming a Flight Angel? Can minors volunteer as Flight Angels with adult supervision?
Currently, Flight Angels must be at least 18 years old due to airline and legal requirements.
When are Flight Angels needed most?
All year, but most in the rainy season, from May to November, when fewer visitors are flying home. Winter, from December to April, is the easiest time to help, because that’s when the direct flights to Canada run.
How many dogs has Huellitas de Acero rescued and rehomed through the Flight Angels program?
We’ve helped save and rehome dozens of deserving dogs. You can view just some of our adoption stories here, view dogs looking for their new families here, and follow along in real-time on Facebook.
Becoming a Flight Angel: More Than Just a Flight
Being a Flight Angel is more than just transporting a dog from one place to another. It’s about offering a lifeline, a chance for a rescued dog to experience the warmth of a loving home. It’s about witnessing the transformative power of adoption and the joy of reuniting families.
Ready to Spread Your Wings and Make a Difference?
We invite you to join our team of compassionate Flight Angels and help us create happy endings for deserving dogs. Visit our website today to learn more and apply to become a Flight Angel.
Together, we can make a world of difference for rescued dogs in Puerto Escondido. Spread the word, share your experience, and inspire others to join this incredible movement. Your kindness has the power to change lives – one wagging tail at a time!
INTERESTED IN VOLUNTEERING AS A FLIGHT ANGEL?
IF YOU ALREADY HAVE A FLIGHT HOME BOOKED (from either Huatulco, MX or Puerto Escondido, MX), and would like to take one of our dogs to their forever home, please complete the form below.
If you don’t have a flight booked but you have plans to travel to Puerto Escondido, MX or Huatulco, MX please feel free to complete this form when you do have a flight booked. We do not hold names of potential flight angels.
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Imagine a dog, alone and scared, abandoned on the streets of Mexico. Their future uncertain, filled with hunger, fear and sickness.