LI Veterans' Service Animals Get Free Checkups From Paws Of War

NESCONSET, NY — Paws of War recently hosted its "Hearts and Heroes" event at its Nesconset headquarters, according to a news release. The event was an effort to give back to veterans and first responders.

The non-profit provided 27 service animals with free veterinary care, which included wellness checks, flea and tick medications, vaccinations, bags of dog food, and microchipping service.

The coronavirus pandemic has brought financial challenges to veterans and first responders, according to Paws of War. Many disabled veterans live on low or fixed incomes and their service animal's medical care is essential, as the pet provides them comfort and support which they depend on.

“As a former veteran, I know how critical and expensive it is to take care of these service animals," said Kelli Porti, veteran & community outreach liaison for Paws of War. "They are more than just pets; these animals provide emotional support and tasks for these heroes when it is needed most."

Dr. Marissa Altieri, DVM, volunteered her expert veterinary care to the pop-up clinic and its patients, donating her time to assist Paws of War as a way to give back to the community and support the non-profit's mission.

"Veterinarians enable animals of all kinds to live their best life and to be as happy and healthy as possible," Altieri said. "Service animals are responsible for their health and well-being and in many cases the lives of their owners. Volunteering my time and medical knowledge for Paws of War and their mobile clinic is my way to honor these veterans for all they have done for our country."

"Hearts and Heroes" is part of a continual program, Vets for Vets, hosted by Paws of War that gives back to servicemen and women by providing free veterinary care for their service animals; their wellness is essential in providing their exceptional service to their owners who are U.S. military veterans suffering from the emotional effects of war.