Paws of War

"Dogs have a way of finding the people who need them. Filling an emptiness we don't even know we have."

Rescued by Paws of War from desperate conditions, Rocky is still learning how to be loved. 💙 Today, The Spoiled Bitch Dog Boutique treated him to a very special shopping spree — a private event where he carefully sniffed every shelf, passed on the Kongs, found the treat that stole his heart, and celebrated with a pup cup! These small, joyful moments are the building blocks of trust, healing, and a life rebuilt. Your support turns rescue into recovery. Please consider giving today — your gift pays for transport, medical care, training, and the tiny comforts (like a pup cup) that teach a dog what safety and love feel like. Be the reason Rocky — and the next animal in need — gets a chance to heal and belong. 💙 Donate now: pawsofwar.org/donate #PawsOfWar #HelpingHeroes #RescueDog #SecondChances #PitbullLove #DogsofInstagram #RescueToRecovery #DonateNow

A tiny life braved a war zone — and found hope in a soldier’s boots. Young, too trusting for the hostile world she was born into, and desperately hungry, Ali walked up to some American soldiers—crying out to them as she stood on their boots as if asking to belong. She chose U.S. Army Sergeant Jon as her human, and from that day on, she became part of daily life; bringing comfort and smiles to all of the soldiers during the long and heavy days of deployment. The thought of someone less kind coming across the little cat was gut-wrenching, and the heroes knew they couldn't leave Ali behind. On reaching out to Paws of War for help, they held their breath as tensions overseas increased, but thanks to your support, Ali's rescue mission was a success! Now safely in America and reunited with Sergeant Jon, Ali is finally safe! She is enjoying her new world of toys and cat trees, and plenty of snuggles with her brave Mom! From a Grateful Hero: "I am beyond relieved to have Ali home in the States, it was stressful and heartbreaking knowing she was overseas with everything going on around her. Having her home and knowing she's safe, fed, and happy, brings a peace of mind I haven't known since I first met her. I cannot thank everyone enough for every part you played in getting her here safely." Be a lifeline for more animals like Ali. Please donate and make a difference: pawsofwar.org/donate #PawsOfWar #RescueAnimals #VeteranSupport #AnimalRescue #FurryHeroes #SupportVeterans #Reunited #HeroicRescue

Angry Cat was alone, afraid, and crying for help... He was found hiding under a shipping container overseas by a U.S. Army Specialist, but he was so fearful of people that he hissed and swatted at anyone who came close. He fiercely guarded scraps of food she gave him - barely eating despite his gnawing hunger. It was then the Specialist discovered that Angry had an untreated injury to his jaw, and no teeth. She made him a bed with an old box and some of her t-shirts, and found some tuna for him. It wasn't much, but Angry was grateful, and as the days and weeks went by, he began to trust the Specialist; waiting for her at the end of her shift. She knew he needed a safe home - away from the suffering and dangers, but even if Angry could make it Stateside, her deployment meant she couldn't adopt him, and he needed somewhere to go. Then another hero opened her heart... U.S Army Sergeant Martha had already stepped up to give kitten AJ a home after the vulnerable young cat was found struggling to stay alive in the brutal desert heat by an Army team on patrol. When Sergeant Martha heard about Angry's story, she offered to give him a life of safety too. Both Angry and AJ have been delivered to Sergeant Martha and they are settling in well! They no longer have to fight to stay alive, and their days are now filled with love, security, surrounded by comfort in a home of their own. The pair have also become great friends! And they have other cat, and dog siblings for company, too. Neither of these precious souls could have made it out in the dangerous desert on their own, but thanks to your belief in our life-saving rescue missions, they won't ever face that existence again. Neither of these precious souls could have made it out in the dangerous desert on their own, but thanks to your belief in Paws of War life-saving rescue missions, they won't ever face that existence again. 💛 Paws of War was their only hope. Your donation today makes sure the next hero’s loved one isn’t left behind: pawsofwar.org/donate #PawsOfWar #HelpingHeroes #CatRescue #MilitaryRescue #FromDeploymentToHome

Paws of War is honored to be recognized alongside 25 incredible local veterans’ service organizations during this year’s Catholic Health Suffolk County Marathon. Each year, this event rallies the community to support those who have served our country, and over the last decade, it has made a remarkable impact on veterans’ lives across Suffolk County. Our deepest gratitude goes to everyone who makes this annual benefit possible, as well as to our fellow organizations who share Paws of War's mission to give back to our heroes. 📷: Press Office of Suffolk County #PawsofWar #LongIsland #SuffolkCounty #VeteranSupport #SupportVeterans #VeteranFundraiser #VeteranServices #ServingThoseWhoServe

Free Mobile Veterinary Clinic for Veterans and First Responders in need! Schedule your time today, appointments fill up quickly! Paws of War is offering free pet care services to veterans, active military members, and first responders in financial need — including wellness exams, vaccines, nail clippings, and microchipping. Location: Paws of War, Nesconset, NY Date: August 17 Time: 9:30 AM – 2:30 PM Appointments are required — no walk-ins will be accepted. Call 631-406-6595 or email sagea@pawsofwar.org to reserve your spot. 🛡️ This clinic is made possible through a generous Millstein Veterinary Project® grant from The Irving and Phyllis Millstein Foundation for Animal Welfare. #PawsOfWar #MobileVetClinic #VeteranSupport #FirstResponderSupport #FreeVetCare #PetWellness #LongIslandPets #AnimalWelfare #MillsteinVeterinaryProject

They met in training… and now they’re getting married. 💍🐾 Storm and Tucker’s love story began in Paws of War’s free service dog training classes, where fate brought them together. Both dogs were paired with their handlers through Paws of War’s program that adopts dogs to veterans, first responders, and Gold Star families — Storm with Veteran Michael, a dedicated Paws of War volunteer, and Tucker with Jenny and Stefan, Co-Founders of Operation VEST. But their bond did more than spark romance — it brought Paws of War and Operation VEST closer together, inspiring a united effort to raise even more awareness and support for those who serve. Together, their organizations provide training, resources, and a community that helps heroes heal, thrive, and find hope — sometimes in the most unexpected ways. Learn more about the important missions of both organizations at pawsofwar.org and operationvest.org. #PawsOfWar #OperationVEST #HelpingHeroes #ServiceDogs #VeteranSupport #FirstResponderSupport #GoldStarFamilies #LoveStory #DogWedding #ServingThoseWhoServe

Forest Needs a Forever Home🏡 At just 1 year old, this beautiful XL Bully has already been through more than most dogs ever should. Rescued from a rough start, Forest could have shut down… but instead, he chose love. This gentle giant is all about snuggles, tail wags, and making new friends. About Forest: 🐾 Great with other dogs 🐾 Wonderful with kids 🐾 A car-ride enthusiast 🐾 Crate-trained and happy to settle in for a nap Forest is ready to trade his past for a bright future filled with adventures, couch cuddles, and a family who will love him. If you’re ready for 90+ pounds of pure affection, apply today: pawsofwar.org/adoptadog #AdoptForest #PawsOfWar #AdoptDontShop #RescueDog #XLBullyLove #GentleGiant #DogAdoption #ForeverHomeNeeded

Adoption Update 🐾 Two mama dogs. Twelve puppies. Fourteen happy endings. When Paws of War helped shut down a cruel breeding operation, Raggs and Cookie were among the 40 dogs rescued. Both had spent their lives bred for profit, never knowing the warmth of a real home. That changed the moment they came into our care. On the way to safety, Raggs went into labor — delivering six tiny puppies before she even reached her foster home. She’s now healing from serious medical issues, including a hernia and cataract, with surgeries fully covered by Paws of War. Cookie arrived pregnant and soon gave birth to six more puppies in the loving care of a foster. Her pregnancy was difficult, with gastrointestinal complications and vet visits, and one puppy needed emergency care after being born not breathing — but thanks to quick action, all survived and are thriving. Today, all 14 dogs are safe, healthy, and in forever homes with Veterans and First Responders — at no cost to our heroes. These mamas will never be forced to breed again, and their puppies will only know love. This is what rescue looks like — and we can’t do it without you. Your support helps us save more animals and change more lives: ow.ly/BFHu50WC2Ag #PawsOfWar #RescueDogs #AdoptionUpdate #HelpHeroesAndDogs #FromRescueToHome #DogsOfInstagram #RescueStory #VeteranSupport

HONORING HEROES & THEIR SACRIFICE ON PURPLE HEART DAY Today, on National Purple Heart Day, we honor those who were wounded or lost their lives in action. These heroes have sacrificed so much for our country, they deserve our respect and honor. Paws of War is humbled to have some of these Purple Heart recipients involved with our organization, some receiving services, some still giving to their country and community. We honor them today, and every day, we are mindful that we owe them all a debt that can never be fully repaid. We'd like to share with you just two examples of the inspiring Service Members who recently were presented with their purple hearts. On January 28th, 2024, U.S. Army Sergeant Ryan Kissoon and U.S. Army Specialist Michael Branch, were among the wounded when a deadly drone strike on Tower 22 in the Middle East, claimed the lives of 3 American soldiers, and injured 47. Sergeant Kissoon and Specialist Branch became part of our family through our War-Torn Pups and Cats program. They reached out to us to save several dogs that they and their fellow soldiers had found, bonded with and wanted to save, by getting them to the U.S. where they were reunited. Today, on Purple Heart Day, and every day, we stand with our heroes in deep gratitude for their service.

Veteran Pleading For Loving Home For His Cat! An 86-year-old veteran is asking for a person with a big heart to adopt his cat as he is no longer able to care for him. Chuckie has been his loyal companion and he is heartbroken that he has to leave him behind due to a medical emergency. This selfless veteran, who has spent his life serving others, is now doing everything he can to make sure Chuckie finds a great home. Paws of War has stepped in to foster Chuckie but needs to find him a permanent home. Chuckie is a quiet, affectionate soul who just wants to be near someone and offer comfort — just like he did for his veteran every day. He’s easygoing, loving, and would make a perfect companion for someone looking for a calm, loyal friend. Please consider giving this beautiful boy the second chance he deserves. If you can’t adopt, please share — every post helps us find Chuckie the loving home he’s still waiting for. 🐱❤️ #AdoptDontShop #HelpChuckie #SupportVeterans #RescueCat #SeniorCatLove #PawsOfWar #CatRescue #AdoptACat

🎖️ Congratulations, Lt. Colonel Chad Lennon! Paws of War was honored to be in attendance for Legislator Chad Lennon's promotion from Major to Lieutenant Colonel in the United States Marine Corps. We’re incredibly proud to work closely with Lt. Colonel Lennon—whose dedication to serving both our country and our local community is nothing short of inspiring. His leadership, advocacy, and commitment to veterans and first responders make a powerful difference every day. Congratulations, Lt. Colonel Chad Lennon —and thank you for your continued service. 👏 #MarineCorps #PawsofWar #VeteranLeadership #ThankYouForYourService #SuffolkCounty #SemperFi #CommunityHero #Promotion

Behind the scenes with Rocky & Kat and Mouse Photography PLUS LAND A SPOT IN THIS YEAR'S KAT AND MOUSE COFFEE TABLE BOOK! Rocky is available for adoption to ANY LOVING HOME. Calm, loving, and incredibly well-behaved, this sweet boy was made for the spotlight. He listens beautifully and is ready to share his heart with a forever family. He should be the only pup in the home. Meet Rocky and apply to adopt: pawsofwar.org/adoptadog We’ve teamed up with Kat and Mouse Photography to raise funds for Paws of War! Book your powerful pet photo sessions that celebrate the animals who changed your life. 📖 Every booked session supports veterans, first responders, and rescue animals — and will be featured in the You Saved Me Vol. 3 coffee table book! 📸 Book your session with Kat and Mouse Photography before all spots are filled: katandmousephotography.com/pet #pawsofwar #adoptrocky #yousavedme #pawsofwar #dogsofinstagram #rescuehero #adoptrocky #fundraiser #veteransupport #dogmodel

We are proud to announce two integral members of our Paws of War family were honored at the 2025 Dan's Papers Power List event, which recognizes individuals whose work has made a lasting impact on Long Island. Michael Sweeney is a United States Navy Veteran and passionate volunteer with Paws of War, playing an active role in programs that rescue animals, provide service dogs to veterans and first responders, and help build a bridge to healing. He embodies the heart of our mission—and we are proud to stand beside him. Robert Renna is a dedicated volunteer and financial advisor at Paws of War, offering strategic guidance and lending his financial expertise to help strengthen operations. We are tremendously grateful for Robert’s continued commitment, insight, professionalism, and heart for service. Paws of War extends a heartfelt thanks for their unwavering dedication, compassion, and the impact they make on the lives of veterans and rescue animals alike. #PawsofWar #ServiceDog #Veterans #FirstResponders #SupportVeterans #LongIsland #VeteranSupport #VeteransHelpingVeterans #HelpingHeroes #VeteranSpotlight

URGENT Reminder from Paws of War 🚨 Never leave your pet in a parked car—not even for a minute. On a 75°F day, the temperature inside can reach 100°F in just 10 minutes, even with windows cracked. It can lead to heatstroke, brain damage, or death. Under New York State Law, it’s also illegal. Law enforcement is authorized to intervene, and may lead fines or criminal charges. If you see a dog in a hot car: • Call 911 • Stay on the scene • Document what you see with pictures and video Be their voice. Help keep pets safe this summer. For any questions, please call Paws of War at (631) 406-6595. #HotCarKills #PawsOfWar #PetSafety #ProtectOurPets #SupportVeterans #AnimalRescue #HeatAwareness #DogsInHotCars

Foster fail success! This lovable poodle rescued by Paws of War is now with a Fire Department Captain. Initially meant to foster Rolo, they adopted him! Rolo loves car rides, walks, and learning tricks! His family says he brings them unconditional love daily. 🐕💙

Penny (formerly Hope) is thriving with her loving family, including a U.S. Air Force veteran and FDNY firefighter. She enjoys her dog siblings, McGee and Bella, and cat sister Luna, playing in her backyard. Penny is excelling in Level 1 obedience training at Paws of War! ❤️🐶

Join Paws of War for a Night of Laughter on Heroes Night, April 24, 2025, at Theatre Three, Port Jefferson! Enjoy a comedy show benefiting veterans. Get your tickets now! Learn more at theatrethree.com/heroescomedyni… or call 631.928.9100.

A retired USMC vet and Nassau County Police Officer adopted an 8-week-old pup rescued by Paws of War after Hurricane Helene. Now 5 months old, Capone is thriving! He’s learning commands and will soon train as a service dog. Excited to see what this duo accomplishes!

John Barnett, a retired detective and Navy vet, is running marathons in all 50 states for Paws of War. He just completed his 34th in SC! Support him: runforpaws.org 🏃‍♂️🐾

No one fights harder for our mission than Anthony Lambroia. 🥊🐾 In November, he stepped into the ring to raise awareness for our programs. Proud to have him in the Paws of War family! Thank you for supporting veterans, first responders, and the animals we serve!