Lend a Paw to Our Military Dogs
Your donations help to provide much needed help to K-9 heroes.
IN THE MONTH OF JULY & AUGUST
Donate at your local Pet Supermarket store
100% of the proceeds benefit the United States War Dogs Association.
With Your Help, We’ve Donated
$1,750,000!
With your generous donations, our Lend A Paw campaigns have raised more than $1.3 million for homeless animals and military dogs, and provided critical food and supplies to the organizations who help care for them.
About the United States War Dogs Association
The United States War Dogs Association (USWDA) was established in 2000 and since then has grown its support of military working dogs (MWDs) by talking to handlers to find out what they need most and channeling their support to suit. Unlike retired military personnel, MWDs do not receive any sort of financial aid.
Our Featured Military Dog Heroes
K-9 Jack
United States Air Force
Patrol and Explosive Detection Dog
Retired US Air Force patrol and explosive detection (PEDD) dog, Jack, had a tumultuous journey that led him to Amanda in San Antonio, TX. Despite breaking his leg during training in Guam and escaping from his crate on a plane, Jack miraculously survived. However, ongoing complications and infections necessitated amputation. Through US War Dogs’ partnership with Compassion First, we were able to facilitate Jack’s treatment for free, alleviating the financial burden on his adopted owner and former military service member, Amanda. Now adjusting to life on three legs, Jack exudes the same youthful energy and friendly demeanor. Amanda is immensely grateful for the support of US War Dogs and Mission Vet, and she looks forward to many joyful years ahead for Jack.
K-9 Bass
US Marine Corps Special Operations Command
Explosive Patrol Dog
Bass, a decorated war hero who served with the US Marine Corps Special Operations Command (MARSOC), retired after an impressive career from 2015-2019, that included over 350 missions and numerous life-saving actions. Living with his devoted handler Alex and his family, Bass enjoyed a fulfilling retirement until his health took a turn for the worse in 2022. Thanks to the US War Dogs' Emergency Care Program, Bass received life-saving surgery and treatment for a cancerous tumor. Despite his old age, Bass has made a remarkable recovery and continues to embrace life, whether relaxing at home or embarking on adventures across the country. Alex is forever grateful to have given Bass the retirement he truly deserved and cherishes their bond.
K-9 Beki
United States Air Force
Patrol and Explosive Detection Dog
Beki, a remarkable US Air Force patrol and explosive detector dog, formed an inseparable bond with her dedicated handler, Porschia, in 2018. Together, they underwent intensive training, and Beki proved herself invaluable during their deployment to Kuwait, where she discovered two mortars, potentially saving lives. Beki's exceptional career included serving on Secret Service missions and even participating in a mission in Brazil. However, after undergoing spinal surgery in 2022, Beki was medically retired from the Air Force. Despite being out of service, Beki continues to enjoy a comfortable retirement, thanks to the support of the Rx Program, which provides her with necessary medications to maintain her mobility and alleviate any pain. Porschia is grateful for the program's assistance, emphasizing the positive impact it has had on Beki's quality of life.
USWDA Programs
Unlike retired military personnel, MWDs do not receive any sort of financial aid, but the USWDA organization provides much-needed support to the K-9 community and as it stands today. USWDA has a number of programs that provide practical help to both active and retired MWDs and their adoptive families.
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Rx Program
The greatest need by far is for USWDA's prescription service, or Rx Program. Retired MWDs can access prescription drugs through our partner, Curexa Pharmacy and US War Dogs picks up the check each month. USWDA is currently supporting in excess of 1,200 retired MWDs on the Rx Program at an average cost of $20,000 per month.
Specialized Care Program
USWDA also has a long-standing arrangement with Redbank Veterinary Hospital in New Jersey to provide specialized care (diagnostics, treatments and surgeries) to dogs who need it. Thanks to this partnership with Redbank, US War Dogs are not charged for these services.
Wheelchair Program
USWDA pays for veteran dogs who have been signed off by a veterinarian to be fitted with a wheelchair. The wheelchairs help retired MWDs regain their mobility and enjoy every moment of civilian life. Last year, USWDA paid for four wheelchairs to be fitted to dogs around the country and the results were magical!
Thundershirt Program
USWDA's Thundershirt Program offers practical support to retired dogs who are struggling with the effects of PTSD. With this program, owners can orde a weighted Thundershirt, which helps to calm anxious dogs. Anti-anxiety medications are also available for dogs with a diagnosis to help manage the effects of PTSD.
Rainbow Bridge Program
USWDA services helps to alleviate many of the financial burdens associated with owning a retired MWD. When the time comes to say goodbye, the Rainbow Bridge Program helps with costs of euthanasia and cremation, providing practical and timely support at one of the most distressing times.
Care Packages
US War Dogs has sent more than 30,000 care packages to active-duty dog teams since the organization was founded. This service helps fill the gaps in quality K-9 kits and give handlers a welcome reminder of home. USWDA wants our K-9 brothers and sisters to feel supported and valued.
MWD Service Award
US War Dogs awards specially-created service medals to all serving MWDs once their career has ended. Their handlers and adopted families find huge pride in the medals, which recognize the dog’s service to our country and provide his or her family with a treasured keepsake.
Honoring and Educating
USWDA has been involved with a range of high profile memorials and monuments that have helped raise the status of MWDs and their work. USWDA also attends events, fulfills keynote speaker opportunities and provides historical information on the USWDA website for anyone who wishes to learn more about the role and profile of dogs within the US Military – past and present.
Emergency Care Program
With our Emergency Care Program, owners are able to act quickly when treatment is required for their retired MWD. Our team works with the owner’s local vet to assess the treatment needed and the prognosis, and US War Dogs pays for the bill – alleviating the financial burden on the owners and making sure our K-9 hero receives timely care.
