Nesconset Nonprofit Aims To Help Army Sergeant Save Poisoned Dog

NESCONSET, NY — A soldier stationed overseas is seeking help to care for one of his dogs who was poisoned, according to a news release from Paws of War, a Nesconset nonprofit.

Army Staff Sergeant Laza took pride in rescuing two stray dogs that would hang around the base, according to Paws of War. It’s an area that is cruel to dogs, so he tried to give them a safe place to stay. He created a strong bond with two of them, naming them Turbo and Benji. Someone poisoned the dogs; killing Turbo while leaving Benji fighting for his life.

"It’s really awful what happened to these poor dogs," said Dereck Cartright, a disabled veteran who is the stateside logistics coordinator at Paws of War. "The Staff Sgt. is pleading for help to keep Benji alive and they have reached out to us. We will do everything we can, but we need the community to support our efforts."

The harsh conditions overseas mean there is no shelter or food for the dogs that roam around. Sometimes, people and other animals attack the dogs unprovoked — like in Benji and Turbo's cases. It’s a place where some people will purposely try to harm the dogs, Paws of War stated.

"Both dogs seemed tired last week, so they were offered extra food and attention," Army Staff Sergeant Laza stated via news release.

During the night, however, Turbo died.

The soldier was devastated and knew he needed help quickly or Benji may die as well. He reached out to Paws of War, which got Benji immediate veterinary care. Benji is still alive and fighting for his life, thanks to Staff Sgt. Laza, who could not bear to see Benji suffer, according to Paws of War. He is receiving medical treatment around the clock to save his life and is slowly improving.

"I am an animal lover, and we Texans have big hearts," said Staff Sgt. Laza. "I was distraught about not being able to help. I am so thankful that Paws came to Benji’s rescue."

Paws of War is asking the community to make a small donation if they can in order to help support the costs of life-saving, but expensive, veterinary care.

People can make donations for Benji here if they would like.

"Benji means so much to the staff sergeant, who would be heartbroken to lose Benji, as happened to Turbo, to this tragic situation," the nonprofit stated.

Paws of War stated it never asks the service members to help pay for the veterinary bills, transportation, and other costs to bring the dog to the U.S., or for expenses for relocating the dogs to the soldiers' homes. They do everything for free for the soldier, because they are giving so much by being in the military.

"I cannot believe that someone poisoned my dogs, it breaks my heart," Army Staff Sgt. Laza said. "I’m so grateful for all the support that Paws of War and the people in the community provide in helping to save Benji. It’s such a blessing to have people to turn to."

Paws of War runs several core programs serving veterans and first responders. The War Torn Pups & Cats program helps soldiers who have rescued a dog or cat overseas bring them to safety where they are companion animals for the soldier. Paws of War also provides service dog training, free veterinary care, a companion animal adoption program for veterans and first responders, and an outreach program for homebound disabled veterans. Those who would like to learn more about supporting Paws of War and its mission can check out its website.