Marine Veteran’s Service Dog that Inspired the PAWS Act Takes ‘Last Flight’ Home

 

A service dog named Kaya, whose legacy will forever be intertwined with the federal legislation she helped pass, made the final trip of an impressive career on Southwest Airlines last week.

In a video posted on the airline’s official Instagram, Kaya, a German Shepherd, can be seen beneath her handler, Cole Lyle, as a Southwest pilot describes Kaya’s achievements and the significance of the flight.The pilot explained that the airline’s special guest on the February 2 flight “was specifically trained to help veterans cope with mental health issues.”

He then dropped a stunning revelation.  

“Sadly, Kaya was recently diagnosed with an untreatable cancer,” he said. “So we have the solemn honor of taking her on what will be her last flight as she goes home to rest where she was born and first met Cole.” 

Kaya would pass away on Saturday, February 4...more