Aug. 19—A good Samaritan called 311 for an unusual sighting early Thursday morning — seven pups running loose on the runway at Stinson Airport.
The dispatcher alerted Marcus Machemehl, a member of the San Antonio International Airport safety and wildlife team. One of four wildlife biologists employed at an airport across the nation, his sole role is to mediate encounters with animals and wildlife on area runways.
Machemehl rescued six of the tan and white pups from the airstrip on the South Side. He transported the Labrador mix pups to the Animal Care Services campus, where they were placed in the care of the Animal Defense League of Texas. Friday morning, Machemehl returned to Stinson Airport and found the missing pup that dashed away from the group. ADL staff are caring for the pack that will be put up for adoption.
ACS spokeswoman Lisa Norwood said the pups weren't hurt during their morning romp. She named the dogs Maverick, Goose, Iceman, Cowboy, Rooster and Bob — a nod to pilots in the Top Gun sequel, "Maverick."
"When they find new families — that's when their stories will really take off," Norwood said.
Nadia De La Garza, ADL development and marketing manager, said the situation could have resulted in an uncertain fate for the dogs.
"These puppies were in danger and left unaided could've presented a health hazard within the neighborhood," De La Garza said. "We advocate for responsible pet ownership and want your pets to be a long-term commitment. However, if that's not feasible, please refrain from abandoning your pet."
She said ADL has an intake process to safely surrender a pet and help find it a new home. The ADL spokeswoman said while the process could take a few weeks, the nonprofit would work with residents to find resources to help in the meantime.
"Our hope is to avoid situations like this in the future," De La Garza said.
Kathi Holzschuher, ADL director of development and marketing, said ADL staff thought the pups were around two and half months old. An exam showed they were healthy and received appropriate vaccinations and medications for their age.
"It's unfortunate and probably a case of an abandoned litter," Holzschuher said. "A location like that is so tremendously dangerous. They're adorable. We want to find forever homes for them for sure."
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