Photo: Greg Doherty/Getty

LEAP Foundation: Sir Anthony Hopkins

Anthony Hopkins, 85,  and his wife,Stella Arroyave, 67, have embarked on a remarkable real-life adventure, teaming up with Paws of War to help rescue animals.

The couple’s support ofPaws of Waris helping the nonprofit cover the expenses that come with rescuing pets internationally, according to the organization. Paws of War is focused on helping members of theU.S. armed forces reunite with the animals they helped save during their deployments.

Help from Hopkins has moved forward several Paws of Wars missions to reunify military heroes with their cherished pets from countries in the Middle East.

According to Paws of Wars, it is common for soldiers to form close bonds with stray animals that hang out near bases looking for affection and food. Amidst the chaos and turmoil of war, a cat’s purr or dog’s bark can give a glimmer of hope to those far away from their loved ones. Often facing dire circumstances, these animals abroad can find a beacon of kindness in soldiers willing to feed and care for them.

paws of war

paws of war dog rescue photos

Hopkins' support allowed three urgent Paws of War missions running out of funding to move forward. The organization shared with PEOPLE that Hopkins' assistance allowed the nonprofit to help U.S. Army Specialist Dillon reunite with the starving puppy he saved while deployed, U.S. Army Specialist Jackson adopt the dog she rescued, and Captain Holas to bring home the kitten he helped nurse back to health.

Robert Misseri, a co-founder of Paws of War, expressed his excitement at having the couple’s support.

paws of war dog rescue photos

“We are delighted to have Anthony and Stella Hopkins helping to support these life-changing missions for our military members,” he said. “Animals in conflict zones face a daily struggle to survive and sadly often die from starvation or are killed through abuse or one of the many dangers they face in a hostile environment, and soldiers are regularly the first to show them kindness and provide them with food.

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paws of war dog rescue photos

Paws of War is currently working on an urgent mission to help a rescued dog namedLucky, who is in the Middle East with Army Captain Cindy. For information on Lucky’s rescue and how to support her mission, visit:https://pawsofwar.org/?form=lucky

source: people.com