Sun May 04 20:20:00 UTC 2025: **CBS Sports Reporter Amanda Balionis Encounters Unexpected In-Flight Furry Friend**
CHARLOTTE, NC – Amanda Balionis, the popular CBS Sports reporter known for her PGA Tour golf coverage and her passion for dogs, had a surprise encounter during a recent flight to Charlotte. While en route to preview the upcoming PGA Championship, Balionis spotted a dog underneath her seat, capturing the moment on her Instagram Stories with the caption “IS MY DREAM HAPPENING.” A short video shows a golden-colored tail emerging before disappearing again.
Balionis, founder of the non-profit Puppies & Golf, which connects rescue dogs with humans, has a long history of dog advocacy. She’s fostered numerous rescue dogs, including Jenga, recently adopted into a loving home. Her work has even garnered support from golfer Rory McIlroy, who helped promote the adoption of a dog named Cuddles. Balionis’s love for animals is evident in her frequent social media posts featuring dogs, often combining her passion for sports and canines.
The unexpected in-flight encounter perfectly highlights Balionis’s dedication to animals. While busy covering major PGA Tour events, including the recent Masters Tournament and upcoming U.S. Open, she continues to champion dog adoption and rescue efforts. Her work with Puppies & Golf and past volunteer experience with K9s for Warriors underscore her commitment to improving the lives of rescue dogs.
First Piper 