Suffolk Organization Seeks Help Saving Sergeant Whiskers

SMITHTOWN, NY — Sergeant Kelsey, an American soldier stationed in the Middle East, found comfort while on active duty when she met a cat she formed a bond with. She named the cat Sergeant Whiskers. Sgt. Kelsey is trying to get Sergeant Whiskers and her two kittens relocated to the United States, where they can live together. Sgt. Kelsey has turned to Guardians of Rescue, a Smithtown-based organization, for help, according to a news release.

"We are honored to help relocate these pets back to the soldiers’ home states, so they can live with their families," said Robert Misseri, president and co-founder of Guardians of Rescue. "But it’s something that we can’t do alone. We have to have the support from the public in order to help make a mission like this be successful."

If you'd like to make a donation to help relocate Sgt. Whiskers and her babies to the U.S., click
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Just six weeks into Sgt. Kelsey’s tour, a cat started hanging around, according to Guardians of Rescue. She felt she had to help, as the cat was clearly in trouble: She was malnourished, had wounds on her eyes and nose, and her tail was broken. Sgt. Kelsey made it her mission to help her as much as she could.

"The 126-degree temperatures were difficult for anyone to take, but especially for a wounded cat that lacked access to food and water," Guardians of Rescue wrote.

Sgt. Whiskers, as she was named, was soon discovered to be a new mother who was likely still nursing her babies. She ended up leading Sgt. Kelsey to the area where her babies were, and there were two still alive.

"The cat and her kittens provided comfort, strength, and peace to the soldiers in a harsh environment," Guardians of Rescue stated. "Unable to bring themselves to leave their furry friends behind in a place that is inhospitable to such animals, the soldiers are desperate to have them relocated back to the U.S., where they can live out their lives in comfort and safety."

The relocation process is not easy, according to the organization, but the challenges can be met.

"The costs for relocating the pets add up quickly for medical care, airfare, fees, and more," Misseri said. "But we want to provide the support to our soldiers and we will do everything we can to help their wish come true. We appreciate any donations to help get Sgt. Whiskers and her babies to safety."

Guardians of Rescue provides help to animals out on the streets and investigates animal cruelty cases. It is located in Smithtown, but it helps animals in many places around the country. It is also instrumental in helping military members with their pets.