MONTICELLO – Resorts World Catskills (RWC) hosted Guardian Revival’s Boots and Paws companion dog awarding ceremony on Wednesday, April 30. At this touching event, six puppies were introduced to their new family members as a sign of gratitude for their service. 

Guardian Revival is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization that improves the mental health and well-being of military, veteran, and first responder “guardians” and their families at no cost to them. Of the charity’s various programs, Boots and Paws, which provides free companion dogs to guardians, has successfully awarded 123 companion dogs with a rippling impact on 268 family members.

This year, RWC sponsored three of the six companions donated to these guardians: a German shepherd, labrador retriever, and doodle to US Army veterans. Other sponsored of these four-legged family members included the NY Police Department and the Disabled American Veterans Department of NY.

“Resorts World is honored to partner with Guardian Revival on their Boots and Paws program,” said Meghan Taylor, Senior Vice President Government Affairs and Public Relations at Resorts World. “Events like today’s heartwarming puppy awarding ceremony embody Resorts World’s commitment to the region’s veterans and first responders. We look forward to these devoted dogs becoming an integral part of their new Guardians lives.” 

“Our community is home to many veterans and first responders,”said Thompson Town Supervisor William Rieber. “Programs like Guardian Revival’s Boots and Paws ensure our hometown heroes receive the support and companionship they need. It’s always inspiring to see the array of therapeutic benefits these incredible canines provide.”

“New Yorkers are full of gratitude for the continued service of our neighbors, and it is crucial we show that thanks through real action,” said Assembly Member Paula Elaine Kay. “Resorts World Catskills, Guardian Revival, and these furry friends have made a world of difference in the lives of people who have put everything on the line for us. This event was so inspiring and shows the strong community here in the Catskills.”

“I want to thank Resorts World for sponsoring five companion dog packages and also for hosting our largest puppy awarding to date,”said Rachel Hill, Boots & Paws, Program Executive Director. “Each sponsorship package covers the cost of the puppy, a year’s worth of veterinary care, pet insurance, a training stipend and ongoing educational support. Without the support of companies like Resorts World, we would not have been able to provide these deserving Guardians with their companion puppies.” 

Dog ownership provides therapeutic benefits, including reducing stress and anxiety, easing depression and loneliness, and encouraging regular exercise. In addition to companionship, dogs can help commit owners to routines, create a sense of purpose and accomplishment, and facilitate social interactions. 

RWC’s support for Boots and Paws represents the fully integrated resort’s year-round support for veterans and first responders. For the last two years, RWC has played host to Hudson Valley Honor Flight’s Luncheon of Honor that brings hundreds of veterans and their families to the facility in support of the organization’s work. This June, RWC will host the Legends of the LPGA – the first major golf tournament the Catskills has seen in generations – that will see first responders in the Catskills tee off with some of the most storied golfers.