Sato Project 'Freedom Flight' Brings Furry Refugees To Hudson Valley

HARRISON, NY — The newest residents of the Hudson Valley arrived to a first-class welcome, thanks to a growing network of support on the ground waiting for the canine migrants.

This weekend, Million Air, the luxury fixed base operator at Westchester County Airport, welcomed 40 rescued dogs from Puerto Rico into their hangar, as part of The Sato Project’s most recent "Freedom Flight." In collaboration with Flying Zebra, The Sato Project airlifted the homeless dogs from Puerto Rico, where there are an estimated 500,000 homeless satos (mixed breed stray dogs) roaming the streets and beaches with no access to food, fresh water or veterinary care.

"We were very grateful for the opportunity to host The SATO project and provide the space for this loving union between Westchester families and their new pets,’" CEO of Million Air Roger Woolsey said of the project. "The work that this organization does is nothing short of miraculous and we were proud to play our small part in this effort."

Organizers said that in the last 10 years, The Sato Project has rescued, rehabilitated and flown more than 5,000 rescue dogs to the region.

In an effort to help combat the homeless dog epidemic in Puerto Rico, Million Air welcomed the dogs as well as the army of volunteers that helped to unload the animals, complete their paperwork, and unite them with adoptive or foster families.