During her deployment in Kosovo in May 2024, U.S. Army Reserve physical therapy assistant Elvia Azuara came across several stray cats roaming around one of the bases. Among them was a charming black and white female kitty, fondly known as Fent. Azuara first noticed Fent during lunchtime, and she began feeding her fries, forming a special bond. “I suppose she learned my routine,” Azuara shared in an interview with Stacker. “Whenever I was around, she would suddenly appear and eagerly await her fries.”
However, four months later in October, Azuara received news that her deployment was coming to an end. She was heartbroken at the thought of leaving Fent behind, especially with winter approaching. This is where the “War Torn Pups & Cats” program by Paws of War stepped in to help.
Ollie highlighted the efforts of this U.S. nonprofit organization, dedicated to reuniting military personnel with the animals they had connected with while serving abroad. Founded by Robert Misseri in 2014, Paws of War has facilitated the rescue of over 5,000 dogs and cats for nearly 1,000 veterans. The program addresses the growing need among Air Force, Marines, Army, Coast Guard, and Army Reserves personnel who developed bonds with animals overseas and wished to avoid leaving them in uncertain circumstances.
The organization serves a twofold purpose by not only reuniting service members dealing with the aftermath of war with their beloved animals but also providing care for these animals in need. For veterans coping with post-traumatic stress disorder, their furry companions bring not just joy but also aid in their healing process.
“We have troops stationed all over the globe, and the sacrifices they make are immense,” shared Paws of War volunteer Gary Baumann, who is involved with the “War Torn Pups & Cats” initiative. “We believe that asking them to part ways with these animals is a sacrifice they should not have to make,” he expressed to Stacker.
Azuara learned about the program through fellow service members who had been previously deployed at the base. After forming a deep connection with Fent, she applied to bring the kitty back home to the U.S. “Initially, I was a bit hesitant because I wondered why they would offer this service for free,” she admitted. “But I had nothing to lose by looking into it.”
The “War Torn Pups & Cats” program is funded by generous donors and comes at no cost to service members. In 2023, Paws of War received over $4 million in contributions and grants.
Once a soldier like Azuara applies, Paws of War volunteers and staff worldwide collaborate on the intricate logistics of transporting the pet to the United States. Dogs and cats require a vet visit for documentation and rabies vaccinations before international travel
In the United States, travelers from various countries can enter through multiple airports, but the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) restricts entry for dogs from high-risk rabies countries to just six specific airports, including John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York City and Los Angeles International Airport.
Paws of War, an organization dedicated to supporting veterans and animals, welcomes direct donations via its website to fund programs such as providing PTSD service dogs and operating a mobile veterinary clinic in Long Island, New York.
The “War Torn” initiative is a cause close to the hearts of the organization, the soldiers, and the animals involved. Dogs and cats are known to exhibit complex emotions, and the reunions with their bonded officers hold significant meaning for both parties.
One such heartwarming story involves Azuara, whose bond with her cat, Fent, remained strong despite being separated. After a three-week application process, Azuara received the joyful news in November 2024 that Fent was ready to travel from Kosovo to the U.S. and live with her.
Arriving at JFK airport, Fent was warmly welcomed and eventually settled into Azuara’s home in Austin, Texas. This reunion was a special moment for Azuara, who had concerns about how Fent would adapt to her new environment alongside her two dogs. Fortunately, the cat – now known as Frenzy – quickly adjusted to her new surroundings and diet.
Having Frenzy by her side has been immensely comforting for Azuara as she transitions to a new chapter, training to join the Travis County EMS. Frenzy, a constant source of solace during her time overseas, serves as a reminder of resilience and hope as she navigates civilian life.
This touching tale was edited by Alizah Salario, with additional contributions from Elisa Huang and Kristen Wegrzyn. The photo selection was expertly curated by Lacy Kerrick. Originally published on Ollie and in collaboration with Stacker Studio, this story showcases the enduring bond between animals and their human companions.
