AS AMERICA APPROACHES THE 250TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE, PAWS OF WAR SALUTES THE COURAGEOUS DOGS WHO STOOD BESIDE OUR SOLDIERS AND HELPED SHAPE OUR NATION’S HISTORY.
Across distant battlefields, Paws of War delivers dogs home to America, reuniting soldiers with the loyal companions who became family in war. This mission is rooted in a long history of dogs serving beside our troops, offering loyalty, comfort, and a sense of home in times of war.
By looking back at the dogs who served before them, we will honor a legacy that continues today and bring these powerful stories to life through authentic historical recreations at events across the country.
Our tribute begins in 1777 with the Revolutionary War story of an extraordinary act of compassion. After British General Howe had a victory on a Pennsylvania battlefield, his beloved fox terrier, Lila, wandered into the American camp. Her collar revealed that Lila belonged to the British enemy.
Though defeated, General George Washington, who marched into battle alongside his own dog, Sweet Lips, understood the pain Lila’s disappearance caused his adversary.
Washington’s compassion rose quietly above the noise of war. He ordered that Lila be fed and gently groomed, treated not as a prize of war but as a beloved companion. Guided by empathy for a fellow dog owner, he arranged a temporary ceasefire so Lila could be returned safely across enemy lines.
He sent Lila back with a handwritten note: “General Washington’s compliments to General Howe, does himself the pleasure to return him a dog, which accidentally fell into his hands.”
In the midst of catastrophic war, this moment revealed a shared tenderness rooted in the bond between people and dogs. That enduring spirit is what drives the mission of Paws of War today.
Join us for this year-long celebration honoring the dogs who have stood beside our soldiers across centuries. Then and now, these dogs offer solace, steadfast devotion and a reminder of home during war, making their safe return not just important, but essential to the mission of Paws of War.
HONORING THE ROLE OF HORSES
During the French and Indian War, George Washington confronted the real possibility of death while leading from the saddle of his horse. Four musket balls pierced his uniform. At only 23 years old, he was reminded that his life could rest in the strength and steadiness of the horse beneath him.
In war, Horses were vital to survival, movement, and morale. The very sight of Washington atop his mount inspired his troops. When defeat seemed imminent, horse and rider would move to the front lines, rallying men in moments of fear and uncertainty.
And then came Christmas night during the Revolutionary War, 1776.
With ice choking the Delaware River, Washington took a potentially catastrophic risk. Using six flat-bottomed ferries, he transported an estimated 50 to 200 horses across the frozen river under cover of darkness.
The risky decision proved to be effective as it resulted in the surprise attack on Trenton on December 26, 1776 and later victory. It was a morale-boosting victory.
Approaching the 250th anniversary of America, we continue our dedication to honoring the courageous animals who served beside our troops.
Through Humane Warriors, a Paws of War initiative, the horses we rescue are once again standing beside our nation’s warriors. They now help carry the emotional weight of service.
Horses were once seen as saviors in war, but today many are treated far differently. Too often, they are neglected, discarded, and sent to slaughter. We are committed to changing that by rescuing and rehabilitating them to live the fulfilling life they deserve.
The partnership between horse and soldier lives on.
Learn more at humanewarriors.org
