Paws of War Launches Mission of Hope to Help Heartbroken Soldier Bring Benji Home

Paws of War is helping to get Benji moved to the U.S. to live with his soldier

NESCONSET, New York – (November 1, 2024) – Active duty military member knows that being deployed can be lonely. There is missing one’s family and friends and being in a place far away from home for extended periods of time. For some, this all changes when they stumble upon a dog desperately needing rescue. That’s exactly what happened to U.S. Army Specialist Alan when he rescued a stray, miserable dog named Benji while overseas. Now, he’s teamed up with Paws of War on a mission to get Benji, the dog he fell in love with, to the U.S. 

“Benji has been such a great friend and source of affection for our military members who are deployed,” said Robert Misseri, co-founder of Paws of War. “She deserves to be moved to America, where she can live the rest of her life safely, comfortably and loved. We will do everything we can to help make that happen, but we need the support of others to be successful.”

Spc. Alan is on active duty, and he notices Benji fighting to survive when he is deployed. She was living under a shed in a U.S. outpost and was starving, dirty, and in desperate need of care. Spc. Alan stepped up and helped Benji, and they quickly bonded. Not only did Benji lift the spirits of Spc. Alan quickly became a source of joy and affection to all the unit, making their deployment easier despite being in a dangerous environment far from home.

Benji, a small rare breed for that environment, is now thriving, and one can’t help but smile when one sees her energetic, happy, fluffy self walking around. Strict regulations will not allow Spc. Alan took Benji back home to America with him, so he reached out to Paws of War, knowing they had helped many veterans and active duty members with various programs. 

If Benji is left behind, it will be a dire situation and one that Spc. Alan cannot bear to think about it. The type of dog she is, surviving on her own would be impossible. Benji has become a best friend and family member, and he can’t leave her behind.  Nobody knows for sure how she ended up where she was, but everyone knows she is not depending on us all for her survival.

Mission Facts:

   •       Mystery Origins: Benji’s background remains unknown, but her need for safety is urgent.

   •       Survival Story: After months of struggling, she has thrived under Alan’s care, becoming a cherished member of his unit.

   •       Winter Threat: The harsh conditions pose a significant risk to Benji if she is left behind.

   •       Urgent Appeal: Paws of War seeks donations to ensure Benji is safely brought home to Alan and his family.

“Deployment is difficult. Being away from home and family really takes a toll on many of us deployed overseas,” said Spc. Alan. “Sweet pups like Benji keep service members like me smiling throughout this hardship. I’d be so grateful to get her to the U.S.”

Paws of War is working hard to make arrangements for Benji to be moved to the U.S. There is red tape, expenses and logistical issues that must first be overcome. A lot of expenses come with this mission of hope, and they appreciate all donations to help support their efforts and make this a success. To contribute to the cause and get Benji to the U.S., visit the site at: https://pawsofwar.org/?form=rescuebenji

Or, watch Benji here: https://youtube.com/shorts/0oaBCjyRx3c?feature=share

Paws of War also focuses on giving back to veterans in various ways. They have helped veterans with numerous issues, including suicide prevention, service and support dogs, companion cats and dogs, food insecurity, veterinary care, etc. Paws of War has a large loyal following of supporters and looks forward to working with new corporate sponsors to support these life-saving programs. To donate to help their mission, visit its site at http://pawsofwar.org. 

About Paws of War

Paws of War is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) charitable organization that assists military members and their pets, rescues and trains dogs to be service dogs, and provides companion animals to veterans and first responders. To learn more about Paws of War and the programs provided or donate, visit its site at http://pawsofwar.org.