Tony Stewart, celebrated motorsport champion and aviation enthusiast, took his passion for speed and precision to a new level last week as he piloted his private jet on a heartfelt mission. On May 15, 2025, Stewart, accompanied by his wife and top fuel driver Leah Pruett, flew a disabled dog named Harley more than 1,700 miles from Arizona to Indiana, ensuring the canine reached her forever home. The gesture has lit up the racing and animal rescue communities, merging Stewart’s love for pets, aviation, and kindness in a single high-flying act of charity.
It all began when Mark J. Rebilas, a well-known sports photographer and storm chaser based in Phoenix, Arizona, found himself fostering Harley, a two-legged dog, for five months. Determined to give Harley the loving future she deserved, Rebilas and his family searched tirelessly for the perfect adoptive home. Their search came to a happy conclusion when a family in Indiana agreed to welcome Harley, but the logistics of getting her across the country presented a huge challenge. That’s when Tony Stewart stepped in, offering his $10 million Citation CJ4 private jet, known for its speed and range, to make the difference.
Stewart, a three-time NASCAR Cup Series champion with a legendary reputation on multiple racing circuits, has always maintained a special connection to animals, particularly dogs. His own household is a testament to that affection, caring for furry companions alongside his wife Leah Pruett. Stewart’s involvement in Harley’s story highlights how his personal life, professional achievements, and sense of generosity intersect. The fact that Stewart took the controls himself for this compassionate mission further demonstrates his deep commitment to animal welfare and his readiness to use his resources for meaningful causes.
Rebilas shared on social media, expressing his gratitude while referencing Stewart’s appreciation for storm chasing. The post quickly circulated, earning heartfelt responses and drawing new attention to the value of animal rescue efforts within the motorsports community. Stewart’s racing team amplified the message, replying,
Stewart’s choice to use his own plane was more than a grand gesture; it was a decision rooted in practicality and compassion. The Citation CJ4, his prized aircraft from Cessna, boasts a two-thousand nautical mile range, making it perfectly suited for the cross-country trip. For Stewart, cost was no object in the quest to bring an animal to safety and happiness. Harley’s journey was not just a flight—it was a display of coordination, speed, and determination, all hallmarks of Stewart’s career both on the track and in the skies.
This aviation rescue is just one highlight in a string of personal and professional achievements for Tony Stewart over the past year. In November, Leah Pruett gave birth to their son, Dominic James Stewart, adding a new chapter to the family’s story. In April, Stewart clinched his first NHRA Top Fuel victory at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, an achievement that further cemented his status as a versatile motorsport icon. In the final round, Stewart defeated NHRA Top Fuel champions Antron Brown, Justin Ashley, and Jasmine Salinas, recording an impressive final run of 3.870 seconds at 317.42 mph. These victories underscore Stewart’s current momentum and the positive energy he brings to every endeavor.
Stewart’s connection with animals has always been strong, a fact widely known among racing fans and fellow drivers alike. Until 2023, he was famous for having an adorable pig named Porkchop. When Porkchop’s energetic personality proved incompatible with Stewart’s beloved dogs Max and Mia, he made the difficult but caring decision to rehome the pig for the well-being of all his pets. These experiences have shaped Stewart’s perspective, highlighting the responsibility that comes with animal care and the joys of offering love to creatures in need.
The broader NASCAR community shares Stewart’s affection for animals. Drivers such as Shane van Gisbergen set an example by prioritizing their pets even while making major career moves. When van Gisbergen was offered a position in NASCAR from the Australian Supercars circuit two years ago, his only question was, “Can I bring my dog?” His Rhodesian Ridgeback, Ronald, outweighs even some fellow drivers, and the NASCAR network quickly embraced the pair. Alex Bowman, another popular name in NASCAR, has gone a step further by using his platform for advocacy. Alongside his girlfriend Chloe Henderson, a devoted dog mom, Bowman has raised over $750,000 for animal welfare over the past four years. Through partnerships with Ally Racing and Best Friends Animal Society, and creative projects such as a special Phoenix paint scheme featuring rescued dogs, Bowman has broadened the impact of animal rescue in motorsports.
Similarly, Daniel Suarez, who races for Trackhouse Racing, brings his own passion for pets wherever he goes. Suarez frequently travels with his small Pomeranian, Emma, and his cat Pepper, proving that even the busiest schedules leave space for companionship. Growing up in Monterrey, Mexico, Suarez was influenced by his parents, who regularly saved abandoned dogs, an experience that guides his outreach today. He has publicly supported organizations such as PETA and the Humane Society, reminding fans,
Despite the star-studded atmosphere, the commitment to animal rescue throughout NASCAR remains grounded in empathy. For Tony Stewart, flying Harley to Indiana may have required a substantial investment in time, effort, and logistical planning, but for him and many others in this unique circle, such gestures represent something far greater—a chance to change lives, both human and animal, through tangible kindness. Stewart’s willingness to deploy his private jet for a dog rescue captures the spirit of community that has helped make motorsport culture feel deeply connected and genuinely compassionate.
Some observers have debated whether using a multi-million dollar jet for a single animal could be considered excessive, but the overwhelming response within the racing and rescue communities has been positive. Fans and peers see Stewart’s actions as the ultimate example of leveraging personal resources for the greater good. It’s a sentiment that resonates powerfully in a world where animals too often face uncertain fates; a single act of generosity, especially from someone with Tony Stewart’s influence, can inspire others to help and show that no effort is too great when it comes to saving lives.
The significance of Tony Stewart’s high-profile rescue extends beyond a single journey across the sky. By spotlighting the importance of animal welfare and demonstrating what is possible when compassion drives action, Stewart sets a powerful example for others—both within and outside the racing world. The story of Harley’s journey has already prompted new discussions about the role celebrities can play in advancing animal advocacy, while also highlighting the impact of everyday acts of generosity. In encouraging fellow drivers, fans, and even casual observers to rethink what it means to go the extra mile, Stewart makes a compelling case for combining passion with purpose.
Looking ahead, the legacy of this remarkable trip is likely to stretch much further than the 1,700-mile distance covered by Stewart’s jet. As stories of animal rescues and the heroes behind them continue to gain traction, Stewart’s example will remain a reference point for how individuals in positions of privilege can translate goodwill into meaningful change. The hope is that more people—whether in motorsport, aviation, or everyday life—will follow Tony Stewart’s lead, recognizing the transformative power of even a single act of kindness. For Harley, the disabled dog now safe in her forever home, the outcome is already life-defining. For Stewart and those inspired by his efforts, the sky is truly the limit.
