Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

Strongly known for fostering furry friends, FairyTails Pet Adoptions in Winchester recently found involvement in a unique way. 

The organization is actively involved in supporting military dogs that are deployed throughout the Middle East, an area of the world that – unfortunately – is sometimes rife with dire circumstances.

“It’s hard for them to kind of get supplies right now, and some of the dogs are in remote areas,” said Heather Carter, owner of FairyTails Pet Adoptions. “We’re big supporters of the military and the young men and women that fight for our country. The military dogs certainly deserve some extra support…this was a nice way for our program to give back to them.” 

After being asked if they’d be willing to provide support, the organization first puts its effort toward doing so for a pup named Lakota. 

Lakota, a Belgian Malinois, serves in Syria as part of Operation Inherent Resolve. 

“She’s looking for bombs and [improvised explosive devices] and things like that,” Carter added. “She does her job.” 

Before long, as positive words spread, the organization’s effort went beyond assisting just Lakota.  

“We started with [Lakota]…we’ve since then added seven military dogs to our list of care packages [being sent],” Carter said. 

As for the care packages delivered, several items are included. 

“They need a lot of really tough activity [type] of chew toys and…kind of specific treats,” she said. “They’re needing dog beds, both the raised kind and soft beds for their kennels. It’s hard for them to bathe them over there, so they’ve asked for dried shampoos, brushes, [and] towels to towel them off.” 

A more complete list of care package items, which the public can donate, can be found at https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/3I39E4KWG5Q9G?ref_=wl_share. 

“Really heavy-duty bones are great,” Carter said. “We’ve sent the military dog collars. One of their big requests is bitework items. We’ve contacted several companies that sell that type of equipment.” 

The public is also welcome to stop by FairyTails Pet Adoptions – located at 6049 W. Lexington Road – to purchase t-shirts that will financially help support shipping costs. 

For Carter, whose son has military experience, the effort is especially meaningful. 

“They’ve taken time to thank us and send us photos of the dogs with the items,” she said. “I think that it does help out.”