Two dogs that survived an animal-rescue flight crash that tragically took the life of the pilot have found new homes, as efforts are underway to honor the pilot's memory by assisting more pets, according to a shelter director.
The incident occurred on November 24 in New York's Catskill Mountains, claiming the life of Seuk Kim, a dedicated volunteer from Springfield, Virginia. Kim was known for his work transporting cats and dogs from disaster areas and overcrowded shelters to rescue groups. He was en route to deliver three dogs to the Animal Shelter of Schoharie Valley in the Albany, New York area when his aircraft, a 1986 Mooney M20J, crashed.
According to the National Transportation Safety Board's preliminary report, Kim encountered turbulence at 5,000 feet but descended to 4,300 feet where conditions improved. Unfortunately, he did not make any distress calls after that point.
Of the three dogs on board, two survived the crash. A Labrador-mix puppy named Whiskey and a young Yorkshire terrier mix named Pluto were the survivors. Pluto suffered internal bruising, while Whiskey was found with two broken legs. Whiskey underwent surgeries and rehabilitation at a veterinary hospital in Middletown, Connecticut, and is now recovering well in a foster home.
Whiskey's foster family has decided to formally adopt him this weekend, while Pluto has already found a loving home in Averill Park near Albany. The third dog, Lisa, was entrusted to Kim's relatives.
The Animal Shelter of Schoharie Valley received numerous adoption inquiries for the surviving dogs from across the country. The shelter director emphasized the importance of considering local shelter animals for adoption.
In memory of Kim, his friends and fellow rescue pilots are establishing an organization to continue his legacy. Planned initiatives include sponsoring mobile spay and neuter clinics and setting up pet food pantries, inspired by Kim's own charitable work in this area.
