Nesconset Nonprofit Trying To Help Sergeant Bring Dog Home

NESCONSET, NY — Sergeant Micky, while serving overseas, stumbled upon canines being sold for use in dogfighting, according to a news release from Nesconset-based Paws of War. When he laid eyes upon one dog that was in terrible shape, including having had her ears still bleeding from being cut off due to the fights, he had to step in.

Sergeant Micky rescued Misha from the dogfighting ring and certain death, according to the nonprofit. Now, he's trying to rescue her a second time by bringing her safely to America to live with him and his family. However, he needs help to make it happen.

"Sgt. Micky shares the compassion for dogs that most people in America have," said Dereck Cartright, a disabled veteran who is the stateside logistics coordinator at Paws of War, via news release. "He saved the dog from being killed once, and we will do everything we can to help him save the dog a second time. I had to leave behind a dog I rescued while serving overseas and it still haunts me to this day. We are asking people to make even a $5 donation to help support the effort."

For those who would like to donate to help Sergeant Micky save Misha, you can do so here.

Once Sergeant Mickey heard about the dogfighting market, he went and saw Misha — who he immediately fell in love with. He worked with locals to be able to negotiate for the emaciated and injured dog, which he named Misha. She was practically lifeless and handed to him in a bag, according to the release.

The sergeant spent months nursing Misha back to health and helping her become stronger. She also overcame her fear of people and began bonding with Sergeant Micky. Their bond has led them to be inseparable, and he can't bear to leave Misha behind. His goal is to send Misha to his family in the United States, where she will be able to live in safety and happiness. The soldier plans to join her once his deployment ends.

"I feel like we have been brought together for a reason," Sergeant Micky stated via the release. "Misha was put into my path so that I could save her, and she has brought so much joy to my life. I saved her once, and I pray that I’ll be able to save her a second time."

Every year, Paws of War helps soldiers to bring animals they rescue while serving overseas safely to the United States. Often times during deployment, the dogs and cats that they befriend bring them such joy and help them get through their tour of duty. While the organization has helped many soldiers rescue their pets, it's always challenging to do so, according to the nonprofit. The coronavirus pandemic has severely limited the number of flights coming from the U.S., especially those that allow dogs. Flights from overseas are also expensive, and there is a lot of red tape that needs to be cut.

Paws of War helps soldiers bring their rescued dogs and cats to America after serving their country overseas through its War Torn Pups and Cats program.