South Windsor resident Jessica Waterhouse answered a call from her son, Jacob, while he was stationed at a U.S. military base in Jordan. Jacob reported that soldiers had discovered three abandoned puppies in the desert and asked his mother if she would be willing to foster them. Waterhouse agreed immediately, seeing an opportunity to bring comfort to both the animals and the service members who rescued them.
From the desert to Connecticut
The puppies were rescued by the nonprofit organization Paws of War, which specializes in retrieving dogs and cats from conflict zones, providing veterinary care, and arranging placements with veterans, first responders, and Gold Star families. After being vaccinated and quarantined, the three puppies arrived in Connecticut, where Waterhouse welcomed them into her home.
A personal connection to the military
Waterhouse said the dogs reminded her of the joy they brought to the soldiers in Jordan. “You could hear it in the voice that these dogs just brought so much joy to the soldiers over there,” she recalled. The family hopes the puppies will grow into confident companions for the service members they are paired with, many of whom served alongside Jacob in the Air National Guard.
Veterans, first responders, and Gold Star families benefit
Paws of War’s mission is to pair rescued animals with those who have sacrificed for the nation. By fostering the puppies, Waterhouse is helping the organization ensure a smooth transition for the dogs before they are placed with their permanent owners—veterans and first responders who often find comfort and therapeutic benefit in animal companionship.
One puppy stays home
One of the three dogs will not travel far. Jacob, who recently returned home after nine months of service in the Air National Guard, will keep the puppy with him. He plans to name the dog after the place where they first met—Jordan—creating a lasting reminder of the bond formed during his deployment.
Community impact
Waterhouse’s fostering effort underscores the role local families can play in supporting service members and animal welfare. The story highlights how a small-town household can contribute to a larger humanitarian mission, linking South Windsor to global events while reinforcing the town’s tradition of caring for veterans and families.
As the puppies continue to grow and adapt to life in Connecticut, Waterhouse hopes to stay connected with them and their new owners, watching the dogs develop confidence and become loyal companions. The partnership between a South Windsor family and a national nonprofit illustrates how faith, family, and a commitment to service intersect in everyday life.
Original reporting: NBC Connecticut (Hartford) — read the source article.
