Beacon House, Paws of War and United Way open new outdoor space for veterans and their service dogs
In keeping with their common mission of supporting veterans and first responders on Long Island, United Veterans Beacon House, Paws of War and United Way of Long Island hosted a special ribbon-cutting ceremony last week, marking the opening of the Paws of War Relaxation and Dog Training Area on a Beacon House property in Smithtown.
The space is exclusively available to veterans and active military members with service and companions or emotional support dogs who need a quiet place for training and solace. Training equipment, toys, benches and a barbecue are available in the 2,800 square-foot training area.
“At Paws of War, we understand that the journey of healing for our veterans and first responders takes time and extends far beyond traditional support,” said Robert Misseri, co-founder of Paws of War. “We appreciate the opportunity to work with our partners Beacon House and United Way on this project. This new Relaxation and Dog Training Area is a sanctuary where our heroes can find peace and strengthen their bonds with their service dogs. This special area will play a key part in supporting recovery and mental wellbeing for our heroes.”
Public dog parks can be overwhelming for veterans that suffer with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other mental health illnesses, and for their dogs as well. The new Relaxation and Dog Training Area aims to provide a safe and quiet space where veterans can come to train, play and find peace with their loyal companions and fellow veterans.
“This private training area eliminates overcrowding and potential negative encounters with large numbers of untrained dogs. A quiet and less stressful environment is especially needed for those dealing with PTSD,” added Misseri.
Leaders from the organizations were joined by veterans, their service dogs and local elected officials including Congressman Nick LaLota, represented by Congressional Aide Peter Ganley, New York State Sen.Mario R. Mattera, New York State Assemblyman Mike Fitzpatrick, Suffolk County Comptroller John Kennedy Jr., Suffolk County Clerk Vincent Puleo, Legis. Leslie Kennedy, Legis. Nick Caracappa, Stephanie Stafford, Chief of Staff Suffolk County Legislator, Chad Lennon, vice chair Veterans Committee, chairman, Suffolk County Legislature Veterans Committee, Smithtown Supervisor Ed Wehrheim, Director of Suffolk County Veterans Service Agency Marcelle Leis and Suffolk County FRES Commissioner Rudy Sunderman represented by William Renzetti.
“At all of our facilities, we aim to create a comforting home-like environment for our heroes to thrive,” said Frank Amalfitano, president and CEO of Beacon House. “We appreciate the opportunity to work with Paws of War in providing the people we serve with a safe place to train and care for their service dogs.”
Beacon House manages 55 residential programs throughout Nassau and Suffolk counties, including group homes, emergency shelters and select single-family residences. Since its inception in 1994, Beacon House has served over 30,500 veterans and assists 1,250 veterans annually.
For more information about Paws of War, please visit www.pawsofwar.org.
To learn more about Beacon House, please visit uvbh.org/.
