Abandoned Dog at San Francisco Airport Adopted by United Airlines Pilot

A dog left behind at San Francisco airport has found a new home with a United Airlines captain, according to the San Francisco SPCA.

Polaris, a young pup, was brought to San Francisco by a traveler arriving from an international destination. However, the dog was abandoned when the passenger decided to continue their journey without their pet, as reported by the San Francisco SPCA in a news release on December 16.

United Airlines helped ensure the puppy met the necessary entry requirements to the U.S., including undergoing a quarantine period, according to the nonprofit's statement.

"United's Customer Service team took on a significant task to ensure Polaris' safety, health, and to find him a loving home," said Lisa Feder, Chief of Rescue and Welfare at the SF SPCA.

"From the moment Polaris arrived in our care, the entire United team at SFO provided round-the-clock care for him, until we received clearance to keep him safely in the U.S.," said Vincent Passafiume, Director of Customer Service at United Airlines, in a statement.

"It's incredibly rewarding to see this story come to a heartwarming conclusion, with Polaris now finding a loving home with United Airlines Captain Dale and his family — just in time for the holidays," Passafiume added.