A physician in New York is dedicated not only to saving people but also to rescuing dogs.

Dr. Brian Rambarran, a urologist located in Buffalo, is not just a doctor but also a licensed pilot. He works with animal shelters in New York and North Carolina to transport dogs from facilities where they face high risks of euthanasia to foster homes. His efforts are supported by Pilots n Paws, a non-profit organization that connects pilots with rescue teams aiming to relocate animals from dangerous situations.

“Becoming a pilot felt instinctive. I’ve been flying for about 12 years, motivated by various reasons,” Rambarran explained during a phone interview with YSL News. “One reason was to use my skills to assist both people and animals; I transport sick children as part of my flying for several organizations. Joining Pilots n Paws allowed me to combine my passion for flying with volunteering, ultimately aiming to benefit society.”

A History of Rescues

Over the past 12 years, Rambarran has saved countless dogs using his 5-seat Cirrus SR 22 aircraft, flying every four to six weeks to transport dogs from high-kill shelters to families ready to foster or adopt. On his latest flight, he rescued 11 dogs, and on a prior trip, he managed to take 20 dogs, which is his record for a single journey.

Although he aims to rescue as many dogs as possible on each flight, Rambarran is also ready to respond to emergencies.

<p”For instance, there was a special needs dog that was pregnant and required surgery, so I had to take her on a private flight,” he recounted.

Managing numerous dogs of various sizes and breeds may seem challenging, but Rambarran noted that the process runs smoothly because the dogs are safely housed in proper kennels. The dogs are separated for their wellbeing and to keep families together during transport.

A Family Effort

Recently, Rambarran’s daughters, aged 10 and 12, have begun assisting him with his mission, making the rescues a family affair.

<p”They come along to help unload the dogs and sometimes even select the rescue flights,” Dr. Rambarran stated.

Although his primary focus has been on dogs, Rambarran has also assisted with other animals, including cats and goats.

Rambarran detailed that Pilots N Paws operates as a communication platform, connecting animal rescues and pilots across the U.S. so that assistance reaches all animals in need. He collaborates with several shelters, and some, like Nickel City Canine Rescue in Buffalo, have begun contacting him directly for help. His usual routes are between North Carolina and New York, although he is willing to go wherever assistance is required.

Brandon Wolf, a board member of Nickel City Canine Rescue, mentioned to YSL News that they reached out to Rambarran in February, seeking his help with their rescues, and he immediately responded positively. He informed them of a shelter in North Carolina that he worked with, and together they collaborated to save as many dogs as possible.

Wolf noted that Nickel City Canine Rescue operates as a foster-based organization without a physical shelter. They work closely with various shelters to place dogs and other animals in loving homes. Once foster families are found, they contact Rambarran, who then flies the dogs from North Carolina to Buffalo, where they are greeted by their new caregivers.

“Dr. Rambarran never asks for any reimbursements for flying or fuel costs; he does this purely out of kindness,” Wolf remarked.

Supporting the Vulnerable

What inspired Rambarran to take on such a demanding task, considering each flight costs around $700 and requires a few hours every few weeks?

“I’ve always had a love for animals—especially dogs,” Dr. Rambarran shared. “Animals, similar to children, can’t advocate for themselves, making them a vulnerable group. I’ve always felt compelled to help, so I decided to leverage my piloting skills to assist animals in need, striving to improve their lives and provide them with a second chance.”

Rambarran expressed that these flights give him great satisfaction, “knowing that the dogs are being taken to a safe environment,” allowing them a fresh start.

“These dogs are moving from situations where they face euthanasia to loving homes, experiencing a chance at a joyful and fulfilling existence, and that insight brings happiness to my family and me,” he explained.

Dr. Rambarran’s Own Rescue Dog

With the number of dogs Rambarran has saved over the years, it’s no surprise that one of his three dogs is a rescue. His other two, Lucy (15) and Lola (13), are Yorkie mixes.

During one of his rescue missions from North Carolina, Rambarran helped Toby, a 2-year-old terrier mix, find a new home. Toby had been living on the streets of North Carolina, malnourished and vulnerable, before ending up in a high-kill shelter. After being rescued by a shelter and placed in foster care, Rambarran flew him to Buffalo. Due to unexpected circumstances, Toby stayed with him longer than planned and eventually became part of the family.

“He’s an amazing dog,” Rambarran remarked. “He was about a year old when rescued. Fast forward eight months, and Toby was sitting on my lap on ‘Good Morning America,’ showcasing his incredible transformation from a dire situation to a life filled with love.”

Inspiration from Pilots N Paws

Pilots N Paws expressed their admiration for Dr. Brian Rambarran’s dedication to transporting animals in need through his flying skills in a statement to YSL News.

“Each day, we see the remarkable difference that compassionate pilots make in the lives of animals needing help, and Dr. Rambarran’s actions are a significant example of this,” the statement noted. “His contributions not only save lives but also motivate others to recognize their potential to make a difference as well.”

“We hope his experiences will inspire more volunteers to support our mission of providing free air transportation for rescue, service, and injured animals,” they added.