Virgin flying rescue pets to new homes

French Bulldog puppy sitting on suitcases
By Kate Webster


Virgin Australia and Jetpets have announced a partnership which will see them unite rescue pets with their fur-ever homes across Australia.

For the first time Jetpets and Virgin Australia Cargo come together to fly hundreds of pets in need of care across Australia, breaking down distance and travel barriers with the help of animal welfare charities such as PetRescue.

The first passenger was Lallee the Rough Collie (a Lassie Dog) who, through Pet Rescue, was united with her new owners in Sydney where she can look forward to being a very much loved and permanent member of the family.

Thanks to this new partnership and the kindness of adopter and foster families around Australia, the future for Lallee, and other rescue dogs like her, is bright.

Virgin Australia Cargo Chief Executive, Merren McArthur said “We understand that more and more Australians are making the great decision to adopt a rescue pet, so we’re delighted to be helping Jetpets and rescue organisations overcome distance and travel barriers so that pets can be matched with loving homes.”

“This is a treasured partnership for all of us at Virgin Australia Cargo. Everyone in our team is passionate about pet welfare and helping to make a positive difference – not just for our furry, four legged friends, but for the new owners that receive them,” McArthur said.

Jetpets General Manager, Belinda Gallpen said “After supporting the great work done by organisations like PetRescue for many years, Jetpets is thrilled to continue this great work by partnering with Virgin Australia Cargo.”

“As an organisation made up of animal lovers, Jetpets is delighted to play a part in transporting and flying homeless pets to their fur-ever homes, or foster home arrangements. This allows more doors to be opened which increases the chances of pets finding loving adopter and foster homes.”

Virgin Australia Cargo, Jetpets and PetRescue hosted a VIP arrival for Lallee and celebrated the union with her new owners at Sydney Airport.

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