Auburn pilot among Placer SPCA heroes

Each year, Placer SPCA honors remarkable individuals, organizations and animals who embody the powerful bond between people and pets. At this year's Guardian Angel Gala on March 6, Placer SPCA proudly recognized several inspiring "Heroes" whose compassion, dedication and service continue to make a meaningful difference in our community. · Jerry Wagner – As a dedicated volunteer pilot with Pilots N Paws, Wagner has transported nearly 200 at-risk dogs from overcrowded shelters to rescue partners, where they have a second chance at adoption and a better life. By donating his time, aircraft and resources, the Auburn resident helps ensure dogs facing uncertain futures can reach safe havens and loving homes. His compassion truly takes flight, one rescue at a time. · Lee Thunder – Lee turned his childhood passion for tree climbing into a lifesaving service for pets in need. For nearly seven years, Lee has volunteered his time and skills to rescue cats stranded high in trees, often traveling long distances to help worried families reunite with their beloved pets. Guided by a deep respect for animals and a desire to give back to his community, Lee continues to answer the call whenever a rescue is needed. · Toast – Toast, lovingly known as the Crisis Canine, is a 1-year-old lab/poodle mix with a remarkable gift for bringing comfort during life's most difficult moments. As a victim support canine, Toast stands beside survivors of crime, especially children, offering quiet reassurance when words aren't enough. His calming presence helps ease fear and anxiety, giving victims the courage to share their stories and begin the healing process. Since joining the Placer County District Attorney's Office in July 2025, Toast has supported 85 families and been present for 58 suspected child abuse forensic interviews at the Placer MDIC, offering steady companionship when it is needed most. And when Toast isn't working, he's simply being a dog, enjoying long walks, playing fetch and happily resting at the feet of anyone willing to offer a little affection. Behind every wag of his tail is a gentle heart helping people find comfort, strength and hope. · Placer County Search & Rescue – The Placer County Search & Rescue is a group of quiet heroes whose work most of us hope we will never personally need but are profoundly grateful exist. The dedicated volunteers give their time, skill and hearts to serving the community in its most critical moments. In partnership with the Placer County Sheriff's Office, these extraordinary men, women and canine teams respond when the call comes in the middle of the night, in dangerous terrain, in brutal weather because someone is lost, someone is injured, and someone is waiting to be found. Their work is not always easy. It is not always joyful. And it is not always met with the hoped-for outcome. But it is always carried out with courage, professionalism and deep compassion. Search and Rescue dogs bring remarkable skill to these missions guided by instinct, training and an unbreakable bond with their handlers. Together, these teams offer something powerful in moments of fear and uncertainty: hope. And when hope is no longer possible, they offer answers. They offer closure. They offer the dignity of being brought home. Placer SPCA extends its heartfelt gratitude to the generous sponsors who helped make this year's Guardian Angel Gala an unforgettable evening of celebration and support for animals in need: · Defender Sponsor: Dr. Jay and Kathy Griffiths · Angel Sponsors: NorthRock Partners, Frkovich Properties, and Vision Quest · Guardian Sponsors: VCA Animal Hospitals and Gary Wraa Placer SPCA also extends sincere thanks to its Hero Sponsors – Thunder Valley Casino Resort, Linda Mann & Robert F. Schoenherr, and Unger Construction – for sponsoring the awards presented to this year's recipients. Placer SPCA also thanks all Protector and Ally sponsors whose support helped make this special evening possible.