Paws of War helps military members get their rescued pets to America
NESCONSET, New York – (November 24, 2023) – Black Friday and Cyber Monday will be filled with people scoring bargain deals online and in stores nationwide. The following day is known as Giving Tuesday, which will be November 28, 2023. It’s a great time to follow up all the indulgent spending by evening the score and helping others in need. This year, Paws of War is asking people to help support their mission as they try to help get the rescued pets of those deployed overseas moved to America.
“The work we do helping our military members get their rescued pets to America is vital,” says Derek Cartwright, a veteran and the coordinator for Paws of War. “We feel it is the least we can do to help those who are doing so much for all of us. But it’s something that we can only do with the community’s support.”
While they don’t like to ask for donations, they are necessary to continue being able to do their essential work for our military members who rely upon it. Those stationed overseas on deployment sometimes rescue a stray dog or cat. They are often in an area of the world that does not treat these animals kindly, so when it comes time for the military members to head back to the United States, they can’t bear to leave the pet behind. They have spent time bonding with the pet, which usually brings them great comfort, being away from their family for so long.
Through the group’s War Torn Pups and Cats program, they are working on over forty rescues of cats and dogs for deployed U.S. military including helping Army Specialist Christopher Engel. While he’s from South Dakota, he has been stationed in the Middle East, where he rescued a stray dog that he named Khalid Bash, which in Arabic means everlasting. The two now have a deep and special bond, and now that his deployment is ending, he cannot even think of leaving him behind. Paws of War is working to help get Khalid Bash moved to South Dakota so he can remain with Specialist Engel.
“If I had to leave him behind, I would be devastated. I promised to take care of him and assume full responsibility for his well-being. I could tell he understood what I was saying,” explains Specialist Engel. “The bond he and I were able to build is strong, and he is such an amazing dog. If he is left here, his sociable, friendly, and curious personality, which makes me love him so much, would surely lead to his death.”
As conflicts around the world escalate, U.S. troops deployed overseas face increased threats and are under a tremendous amount of pressure. For many, they will once again miss another holiday season with friends and family. For some of these heroes, the best part of their day is to spend a few minutes or hours with one of the stray animals they encounter daily. Solid and therapeutic bonds are often formed when this happens, and leaving them behind when deployment ends isn’t something they can do. Paws of War has stepped in to help many move their dog or cat to America.
The mission of having the pets moved that far can be done, but it takes time, money, and a lot of going through red tape. Paws of War ensures that every step is covered, often having only minutes to get the pet to a safe location. It can be a costly venture, but it is one that they believe in and will continue with the support of people who believe in what they are doing. To support their program this Giving Tuesday and help support the rescue of Khalid Bash and the many others that are underway, visit the site
Paws of War has been operating worldwide since 2014, helping the military save the animals they rescue while deployed overseas. They have helped veterans with numerous issues, including suicide prevention, service and support dogs, companion cats and dogs, food insecurity, veterinary care, etc. Paws of War has a large loyal following of supporters and looks forward to working with new corporate sponsors to support these life-saving programs. To donate to support their mission, visit its site
About Paws of War
Paws of War is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) charitable organization that assists military members and their pets, rescues and trains dogs to be service dogs, and provides companion animals to veterans and first responders. To learn more about Paws of War and the programs provided or donate, visit its site
Thank you,
Glenda, Charlie and David Cates
