Project Active Duty Reunites U.S. Army Sergeant First Class With Her Beloved Dog After Year Long Deployment

PHOENIX (May 25, 2023) – In April of this year, the Arizona Humane Society (AHS) reunited U.S. Army Sergeant First Class Sabrina Ruckes with her five-year-old Maltipoo, Puma, after more than a year apart as part of AHS’ Project Active Duty program.

In February of last year, Ruckes was deployed overseas with the U.S. Army. Without anyone to help care for Puma, Ruckes turned to AHS’ Project Active Duty program for help. The program, which is free of charge to members of the military, places pets into AHS foster hero homes for the length of the deployment, regardless of the duration.

Adorable photos, interview with Sabrina and video of the reunion can be found here.

The Arizona Humane Society partnered with PetSmart Charities to care for and protect the animals of those who are protecting us around the world through AHS’ Project Active Duty program. Launched as a response to the September 11th attacks, AHS started Project Active Duty as a way to give back to the brave men and women serving our country. This program allows loving pet owners leaving for a tour of duty to entrust their pets with AHS, providing not only a peace of mind during their deployment, but comfort knowing that when they return, their pet will be waiting for them.

For more information or to become an AHS Foster Hero, visit azhumane.org/foster.