Felicia, rescue dog once facing euthanasia, heads to new home in the US

PAL sponsored her flight after logistical challenges delayed her journey.

From being a stray in Boracay, rescue dog Felicia is now on her way to her new family in the United States through the help of animal welfare organizations and Philippine Airlines.

A few years ago, Felicia was just days away from being euthanized in a dog pound in Malay in Aklan, when she was rescued by the Aklan Animal Rescue and Rehabilitation Center. 

According to the AARRC, the pound’s condition was “horrible,” with Felicia visibly malnourished and showing signs of mange when she was found.

“In one cage, may dalawa o tatlong aso na magkakasama. Super liit,” the AARRC told radar. “May ordinansa sila doon na pag may nahuli sila na walang may-ari na kukuha within three to five days, then minimercy-killing nila doon.”

Felicia spent the following years in the AARRC shelter before catching the attention of American animal advocate Katie Dunton, who eventually adopted her.

“Marami siyang candidate for adoption going to US, pero si Felicia, siya lang ‘yong natuloy sa madami niyang choices,” the AARRC said.

But bringing Felicia to her new home was not easy.

Because of health issues linked to a previous blood infection, she needed to complete treatment before she could safely travel. Her journey was also delayed by logistical challenges, as Dunton could not afford the round-trip ticket required for a flight volunteer to accompany her.

That changed when PAL learned about Felciia’s story and offered to fly her out, free of charge.

“We’d love to help get her home, not just by sponsoring, but by being her travel buddy ourselves so she’s comfy, cared for, and extra loved the whole way,” PAL said in a message.