There is something truly special about Paws & Claus. Every year, this event fills our space with joyful chaos: excited dogs tugging at holiday sweaters, kids helping their parents pick out accessories, families greeting one another like old friends. It is a celebration of pets and community, wrapped in the kind of holiday spirit you can feel the moment you walk in the door.
But this year carried an even deeper meaning.
In our 12th year of hosting Paws & Claus, we partnered with Paws of Honor for the very first time, and the impact was unforgettable. Thanks to this new partnership and the overwhelming generosity of our community, we are proud to share that we raised more than 10,300 dollars to support veterinary care for retired military and law enforcement K9s.
This is the highest amount we’ve ever raised in a single Paws & Claus event, and we are still overwhelmed in the best possible way.
A Day That Felt Like Something More
From the moment the doors opened, the energy felt different. Festive, yes, but also purposeful. Guests stopped to meet the hero K9s who attended with their handlers. They listened to their stories. They lingered at the Paws of Honor van, learning how these retired working dogs transition into their senior years and the level of care they often need.
People weren’t just taking photos. They were connecting. Giving. Caring.
And that sense of connection shaped the entire experience.
Meet Milo and Junior: Our Hero K9 Guests
Milo and Junior are retired Vapor Wake K9s who spent their working careers protecting the public through one of the most specialized detection disciplines in the world. Trained to identify explosive scents carried in the “vapor wake” behind a moving person, they worked in fast-paced, high-security environments where their focus and skill made a real difference.
Now enjoying well-earned retirements with their handlers, Milo and Junior have traded long days on duty for lives filled with comfort, companionship, and plenty of well-deserved love. At Paws & Claus, they greeted families with calm confidence, posed for photos, and offered a meaningful glimpse into the lives of the working dogs our fundraiser supports. Their presence was a highlight of the day and a touching reminder of the heroes behind this year’s mission.
Capturing Holiday Magic With Heart
At the center of Paws & Claus is the photography that brings these memories to life.
We are endlessly grateful for Ellen Zangla Photography, whose warmth, patience, and artistry have shaped this event for 12 years.
This year, Ellen, along with Lydia and Jenna, photographed 175 dogs and one cat in just nine total hours. From wiggly puppies to gray-muzzled seniors, every photo captured a moment families will treasure for years to come.
Generosity That Filled the Room
This year’s event was built on an outpouring of kindness from local businesses, sponsors, and community members.
- Caring Hands Animal Hospital of Ashburn sponsored four of our top raffle baskets and donated a fifth with a 500 dollar veterinary care gift certificate.
- Chewy generously donated treats and toys to support our raffle and auction.
- Lynn Foster contributed five beautifully curated raffle baskets that drew so much excitement.
- LuvMyDog returned with handmade accessories and donated a portion of sales to our fundraiser.
- And we extend heartfelt thanks to DoodyCalls of Northern VA, The Tashi Chronicles, Café MG Road, The Wine Attic, and Ultimutt Cakes Dog Bakery for their festive donations and support.
In total, more than 1,500 dollars in raffle baskets were donated or sponsored.
A Warm Cup and a Warm Heart
A new addition this year was our hot chocolate and coffee stand, featuring handcrafted “Woofie’s Cares” mugs designed by Tanya. Guests loved grabbing a warm drink before or after photos, and the custom mugs added a cozy, keepsake ouch that helped boost fundraising even further.
The Volunteers Who Made It Seamless
Our deepest appreciation goes to the volunteers from Bespoke Tech Inc, who worked alongside our Woofie’s team all day. They guided guests, managed check-in, assisted with raffle tables, reset the photo room, and ensured the event flowed smoothly from start to finish. Their teamwork helped make this the most successful Paws & Claus yet.
Looking Back With Full Hearts
Paws & Claus 2025 was more than a fundraiser. It was a reminder of the power of community, the joy pets bring into our lives, and the impact we can make when we come together for a cause that matters.
We walked away feeling grateful, inspired, and excited for what comes next.
As we pack away this year’s decorations, one thing is already certain:
We cannot wait for Paws & Claus 2026.
Thank you to every partner, volunteer, vendor, donor, pet parent, and furry friend who made this year extraordinary. Because of you, retired K9 heroes will receive the comfort and care they deserve.
And because of you, the heart of Paws & Claus continues to grow.