Pinelawn Memorial Park & Arboretum has announced an upcoming collaboration with Paws of War, a nonprofit organization that aims to provide veterans with service dogs. This partnership aims to provide additional support to Pinelawn families coping with the loss of a loved one by offering trained service dogs as part of its grief support program.
Scheduled for April 13th at 6 p.m., the Spring Candlelight Remembrance Vigil will mark the inaugural event featuring therapy dogs provided by Paws of War. The vigil, which typically draws around 300 attendees annually, includes a name-reading ceremony and candle lighting to honor departed loved ones. Guests will have the opportunity to interact with the service animals throughout the event to seek comfort and support during their mourning process.
Justin Locke, President of Pinelawn Memorial Park & Arboretum, expressed the organization’s commitment to guiding families through difficult times. He emphasized the significance of this collaboration with Paws of War in offering a unique and calming influence to aid in the healing process.
Paws of War, known for its work with veterans and individuals suffering from PTSD, trains therapy dogs to provide comfort and support in challenging circumstances. Ryan Haugstatter, Director of Veteran Affairs & Development at Paws of War, highlighted the role of these therapy dogs in offering hope and unconditional love during tough times. He expressed gratitude for the opportunity to collaborate with Pinelawn and support military families and the Long Island community.
Beyond the Spring Candlelight Remembrance Vigil, therapy dogs from Paws of War will be present at other Pinelawn events throughout the year, including the annual Lantern Lighting Celebration.
