Paws Of War Of LI On 'Mission' To Save Animals In Los Angeles Fires

NESCONSET, NY — For Paws of War, where people and pets in need live does not matter — the charity will strive to help.

The Nesconset, Long Island-based nonprofit rushed rescue teams to Los Angeles, which is currently being ravaged by devastating fires.

"The nation has watched the footage of the fires sweeping through Los Angeles, taking everything in its path," Paws of War stated in a news release. "Entire neighborhoods of homes, schools, and businesses have been burned to the ground. While others are running from the scene, Paws of War has rushed toward it to rescue animals, both pets and wildlife, that would otherwise be in grave danger. Now, they are asking the public to help support their efforts and ensure that they can touch as many animals' lives as possible."

Paws of War is undertaking missions to save animals struggling to survive in burn zones. The organization is establishing food and water stations specifically designed for dogs and cats, providing much-needed sustenance to those in need. Additionally, the charity has supplied local rescue departments with oxygen masks for animals, responding to urgent requests from rescuers who are encountering animals in distress.

The charity asked for support from donors who could "make a significant difference in these efforts to protect and save the lives of countless animals affected by the fires."

People may donate here if they would like to do so.

Paws of War has been working with local organizations to help find the pets caught in the fires.

One such case is that of Shelia Silber, whose cat fled as she tried to catch it while she was forced to evacuate, according to the nonprofit.

"The fire came so quickly she was forced to leave without her cat, Ziggy," the charity stated. "Miraculously, her house was spared, but so many of her neighbors were not as fortunate."

The Paws of War team, along with local authorities, was able to return to the house and find Ziggy, reuniting him with Silber in the home where she is temporarily staying. Ziggy survived for five days without food or water, which the charity says highlights the "critical importance of the feeding stations."

"As we search, block after block, the utter devastation is overwhelming," said Niki Dawson, disaster response coordinator and FEMA-certified professional leading the rescue operations for Paws of War. "We were able to find a cat that managed to survive, and the call to her owner to let her know her cat was safe was so inspiring and keeps us going."

The rescue organization has members working near the Eaton fire area but will move as needed. Because of the large number of people who fled their homes or were at work and unable to return, many have been separated from their beloved pets, according to the nonprofit. In response, it has partnered with other local organizations to establish a missing animal hotline. It is also coordinating a foster program for displaced animals and search and rescue efforts. The animals will be well cared for as Paws of War works to reunite them with their families. The team is also setting up feed stations and delivering pet oxygen masks to local fire departments.

"This is such a terrible and devastating situation we are watching unfold in California," said Robert Misseri, co-founder of Paws of War. "We will do everything we can to help in this awful situation."

Paws of War is also arranging transportation of animals out of affected areas and helping to clear overcrowded shelters that are in desperate need of space. Team members are putting their efforts toward quickly helping pets and wildlife to safety and providing them with food and shelter. They are working with organizations and other volunteers to coordinate a foster network to provide temporary animal care.

"Many people are watching this horrific event play out from their homes and want to do something to help the situation," Dawson said. "By supporting our efforts, they will do a lot to help the people and animals that these fires have ravished. The animals need the help, and their families will be comforted knowing that people have pulled together to provide assistance."

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.