Nolan said Sasha, who should weigh 90 pounds, was only 50 pounds.

“I’m a sucker for the dogs that need extra special care,” said Nolan, of Valparaiso.

Taylor County shelter staff then contacted Pilots N Paws, and Christensen, a Pilots N Paws volunteer for only the past five months, leased a plane from the Griffith-Merrillville airport and flew nearly six hours to pick up Sasha and Hank in Kentucky and bring them to safety in Valparaiso.

Volunteering for Pilots N Paws is a win-win, said Christensen, who is logging flight time for a potential future as a commercial pilot.

“It’s a neat way to help rescue animals,” said Christensen, of South Bend. “By networking with other people, I provide a community service and share my love of aviation. It was a perfect fit.”

After her arrival, Sasha enjoyed a free spa day at pet groomer Smoochie Pooch and was then placed in a loving foster home. Hank, who is currently in boarding, still awaits a foster home.

“We sent pictures of Sasha arriving safely and of her spa day… (to her) previous owner to let her know Sasha was going to be all right,” said Riffel. “They told me the lady cried and was very grateful Sasha would have the life she deserved.”