New York Urologist Takes to the Skies to Rescue Dogs

A doctor in New York is not only saving human lives but dog lives as well. Dr. Brian Rambarran, a urologist based in Buffalo, is a licensed pilot who helps keep dogs from being killed by airlifting them from animal shelters to foster homes.

Dr. Rambarran works with Pilots n Paws, a non-profit that links pilots to different rescues and shelters to move animals from high-kill shelters.

"It was kind of natural thing. I became a pilot about 12 years ago, and I did it for many reasons," Rambarran told USA TODAY. "Part of it was to use my skills to help other people and animals; I fly for a couple different organizations and we fly sick children around. I also decided to fly for Pilots n Paws. I decided to do it because it was a way for me to do two things that I enjoyed: one which was flying and two, volunteering and helping others, and hopefully benefit society in a positive way."

Hundreds of Rescues

In the last 12 years, Rambarran has rescued hundreds of dogs in his 5-seat Cirrus SR 22, flying every four to six weeks. On his last flight alone, he picked up 11 dogs, and on the flight prior to that, 20 dogs, the maximum number he has carried on a single flight.

While Rambarran tries to move as many dogs as possible in one flight, he also flies for emergencies. "There was one dog that was pregnant, and she was special needs, and I think she needed some type of surgery too," Rambarran said. "So, I ended up just flying her solo."

Managing so many dogs of different ages and sizes at one time is smooth, as all dogs are put in proper kennels to ensure their safety and health. The dogs are not mixed, and families are kept together.

A Family Affair

Recently, Rambarran's two daughters, ages 10 and 12, have started helping him. "They'll come and help unload the dogs," Dr. Rambarran said. "They'll help pick out some of the rescue flights."

While Rambarran has primarily picked up dogs, he said animal rescues also include cats and goats. Pilots N Paws works as a message board, connecting animal rescues and pilots across the U.S.

Brandon Wolf, a board member of Nickel City Canine Rescue, said they reached out to Rambarran in February. "Dr. Rambarran doesn't ask for any reimbursements for his flying time, his fuel," Wolf said. "He does this only out of the kindness of his heart."

Helping the Vulnerable

With each flight costing approximately $700 in fuel and a commitment of a few hours every few weeks, Rambarran's mission is driven by his love for animals.

"I've always been an animal lover. I've always been a dog lover," Dr. Rambarran said. "Animals are a population that can't really speak for themselves. Just like children, they can be vulnerable. I've always been an advocate for that, so I decided to use my pilot skills to help a vulnerable population by doing as much as I can to hopefully better their lives and give them a second chance."

Rambarran's excursions bring him fulfillment "knowing that the dogs are going to a safe home" and getting a second chance at life.

Dr. Rambarran's Own Dog Is Also a Rescue

One of Rambarran's three dogs is a rescue. Toby, a 2-year-old terrier mix, was found underfed and malnourished in North Carolina. Rambarran brought him to Buffalo on one of his rescue flights, and Toby ended up staying with him.

Pilots N Paws Hopes Rambarran's Story Will Inspire Others

Pilots N Paws, in a statement to USA TODAY, said they are "deeply moved by Dr. Brian Rambarran's enthusiasm for rescuing animals in need of transport through his gift of flight."

"His work not only saves lives, but also inspires others to realize that they, too, can make a significant difference," the statement said. "We hope his story will encourage more volunteers to join our mission."

Saman Shafiq is a trending news reporter for USA TODAY. Reach her at sshafiq@gannett.com and follow her on X and Instagram @saman_shafiq7.