Nonprofit Reunites U.S. Troops with Animals Rescued Overseas

Paws of War's unique program helps service members bring home pets they bonded with during deployments, aiding both emotional recovery and animal welfare.

• Paws of War, a nonprofit founded in 2014, has reunited nearly 1,000 U.S. military personnel with over 5,000 animals they bonded with while serving overseas.
• The 'War Torn Pups & Cats' program assists service members in navigating the complex logistics of bringing rescued pets to the U.S. at no cost to them.
• The process involves veterinary care, vaccinations, and often challenging transportation, with costs exceeding $4,000 per animal, funded by donations and grants.
• Reuniting with these animals provides emotional support for veterans, especially those coping with post-traumatic stress disorder, easing their transition to civilian life.
• One recent success story is Elvia Azuara, who was reunited with a cat she rescued in Kosovo, highlighting the program's profound impact on both soldiers and animals.

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