Veterans and first responders are finally getting the much-needed veterinary care for their animals thanks to the help of the nonprofit group Paws of War.

Paws of War in Nesconset has been out of commssion because of the pandemic. Now it's back providing its rolling veterinary service for free to veterans. 

Allen Goldberg, of North Merrick, served in the Navy during the Vietnam War. Goldberg says it was tough during the pandemic.

"It was difficult. I couldn't even bring her to the groomer because it wasn't even available during the pandemic times," says Goldberg. "So I'm very happy to come here."

Free checkups kicked off Friday. Most of the veterans helped by Paws of War are either disabled or on a fixed income.

"They've been reaching out to us since this COVID hit and they're all in desperate need," says Robert Misseri, of Paws of War. "So today we're finally happy to say we're open."

The free service is also available to birds and cats. 

Paws of War is a nonprofit that runs solely on donations.