The other Alaska airlift: Volunteers save dogs from a flooded Alaska village, 1 tiny plane at a time
October 17, 2025
A nonprofit in rural Alaska is working to rescue dogs from Kipnuk, a village hit hard by Typhoon Halong. The closest pet shelters are 90 miles away in Bethel, which is serving as a flood relief hub. Organizers with Bethel Friends of Canines began chartering flights when they learned that up to 100 dogs might be left behind as people were evacuated. Many pet owners want their dogs back but need time to prepare temporary lodgings. The rescue effort is ongoing, with more dogs expected to be reunited with their families.