Nesconset's Paws Of War Seeks To Keep Soldier & His Dog Together

NESCONSET, NY — An American soldier’s dog is in urgent need of rescue, or he could be left overseas. Specialist Lucas turned to Nesconset-based nonprofit Paws of War for its help to bring Boy Dawg home with him to the United States.

Due to reduced flights and heightened requirements for animal travel, there are just days left to complete the rescue so the solider and his dog can remain together. Paws of War is asking for donations so it can help Specialist Lucas.

"The United States military does not leave best friends behind," Robert Misseri, co-founder of Paws of War, said in a news release. "We need your help to reunite them here in America. Even small donations will add up to help. We want to give Specialist Lucas the great Christmas present of bringing his dog back home with him."

When soldiers are deployed, they can get lonely, miss home, and become depressed, according to Paws of War. Sometimes, they are fortunate enough to find a stray animal that they befriend, which brings them happiness. That's the case for Army Specialist Lucas, who came across a dog he's desperate to bring home with him now that his deployment is over.

"I noticed his calmness, he just wanted some love and attention," Specialist Lucas said according to the release. "I love all animals, but he was special. I can’t imagine having to leave my best friend behind, God only knows what will happen to him and my heart will be broken."

The soldier saw the dog walking around, lonely and hungry, near the base where he is stationed. As he considered how he could help, the dog made his way to him, wanting attention. Specialist Lucas decided to name him Boy Dawg, and they instantly formed a connection. Each day, Boy Dawg would seek Specialist Lucas out for attention and food.

Over time, they created a bond that has helped Specialist Lucas during his deployment. When he got word that he was going to be sent back home to the states, he couldn’t imagine leaving Boy Dawg behind to forage on his own again. By this point, he considered him part of his family. He reached out to Paws of War to see if it could help bring Boy Dawg home with him.

Paws of War has helped numerous soldiers to bring their pets back to the United States. However, this year, the mission is more challenging due to the coronavirus. The pandemic has severely limited the number of flights coming from the U.S., especially those allowing dogs. Plus, flights from overseas are costly, and there is a lot of red tape that needs to be addressed and logistics to overcome, according to the organization.

The only way it can successfully bring Boy Dawg home with Specialist Lucas is with financial help from people in the community. The nonprofit is "urgently" accepting donations so it can plan the mission and secure the flight. To make a donation for Specialist Lucas and Boy Dawg, visit Paws of War.

Paws of War rescues dogs, provides them with proper training and then pairs them with veterans who need service animals, all free of charge. It also helps soldiers bring their dogs back to America after they've served in the Middle East.