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Paws & Claus
Our 12th Annual Photos with Santa Fundraiser with Ellen Zangla Photography
From the White House to Santa’s Lap: Woofie’s Ashburn-Leesburg Hosts Fundraiser Benefiting Paws of Honor’s Retired K9 Heroes
From protecting the White House to posing with Santa, retired Secret Service and law enforcement K9s will join the community at a Northern Virginia holiday event dedicated to raising funds for Paws of Honor, an organization providing free veterinary care to retired working dogs nationwide.
On Saturday, November 15th, Woofie’s® Ashburn-Leesburg will host its 12th Annual Paws & Claus Photos with Santa Fundraiser from 9 AM to 3 PM at 44200 Waxpool Rd in Ashburn, Virginia. This year’s event once again features professional holiday portraits by award-winning pet photographer Ellen Zangla and will benefit Paws of Honor, a nonprofit organization that provides free, high-quality veterinary care to retired military and law enforcement K9s, including those who once served with the U.S. Secret Service and in other capacities.
The event will feature K9 Milo, a 12-year-old Black Labrador who served in the U.S. Secret Service Personnel Screening Canine Open Area Unit. Milo was among the first dogs trained to detect suicide bombers following the Boston Marathon bombing and went on to protect the White House and dignitaries at multiple National Special Security Events, including presidential inaugurations and the Pope’s visit in 2015. Now retired, Milo continues to raise awareness for fellow K9 heroes supported by Paws of Honor.
The day-long fundraiser also includes local vendors, raffle baskets, and family-friendly holiday activities. Woofie’s has set a goal to raise $10,000 to support ongoing veterinary care for retired K9s through Paws of Honor.
The event also coincides with Woofie’s 21st anniversary and its national “Pour It Forward” campaign, a year-long initiative that celebrates the company’s growth from a local dog-walking business into a trusted nationwide brand. Through Pour It Forward, Woofie’s franchise owners across the country are marking the milestone by supporting local causes that strengthen the bond between pets, families, and their communities.
“Paws & Claus captures everything Woofie’s stands for,” said Leslie Barron, Co-Founder of Woofie’s and Co-Owner of Woofie’s Ashburn-Leesburg. “It’s a joyful day filled with community, pets, and purpose. Supporting retired working dogs who’ve dedicated their lives to protecting others is a privilege and a reminder of why we do what we do.”
About Paws of Honor
Paws of Honor is a nonprofit organization that provides free, high-quality veterinary care to retired military and law enforcement K9s nationwide. By ensuring access to lifelong medical care, Paws of Honor helps these loyal heroes live healthy, comfortable lives after years of dedicated service. Learn more at www.pawsofhonor.org
About Woofie’s®
Founded in 2004 in Ashburn, Virginia, Woofie’s® is a leading provider of personalized pet care services, including dog walking, pet sitting, and mobile grooming. Over 21 years, Woofie’s has grown into a trusted national franchise network known for its compassionate care, entrepreneurial spirit, and commitment to supporting it’s communities by giving back. Learn more at www.woofies.com
ABOUT ELLEN ZANGLA PHOTOGRAPHY
Ellen Zangla is an award-winning pet photographer based in Northern Virginia. Since 2009, she has specialized exclusively in capturing the personalities of pets and the bond they share with their families. Her work has earned national recognition, including multiple Photographer of the Year titles and a spot on Team USA for the 2025 World Photographic Cup.
Ellen donates her time each year by partnering with us for Paws & Claus, using her talent to create lasting memories for families while giving back to animals in need.
Learn more at www.ellenzanglaphotography.com
Paws & Claus FAQs
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What is Paws & Claus?
Paws & Claus is Woofie’s of Ashburn’s annual holiday fundraiser, this year benefiting Paws of Honor, a nonprofit organization that provides free veterinary care to retired military and law enforcement K9s. Guests can stop by to meet retired service dogs, shop local vendors, enter raffles, and celebrate the season while supporting a great cause.
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When and where is the event?
Saturday, November 15th from 9 AM to 3 PM
Woofie’s Ashburn - 44200 Waxpool Rd, Suite 142, Ashburn, VA 20147 -
Are photos with Santa still available?
Photo sessions with Santa are sold out, but there is still plenty to enjoy. You can shop from local vendors, meet K9 heroes from Paws of Honor, and take part in our community raffle while supporting an amazing cause. -
Can I bring my pet even if I am not taking photos?
Yes. Friendly, leashed dogs and small pets in carriers are welcome to join in the fun. Please note that there will be many dogs present, so your pet should be comfortable around others.
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Will there be vendors or shopping?
Yes. We will have a variety of local pet-friendly vendors and small businesses on site with great holiday gifts, treats, and services.
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Who will be there?
A full list of participating vendors and partners will be shared on our social media pages closer to the event. Expect local pet businesses, holiday gift vendors, and community partners who support animal welfare.
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Can children attend?
Yes, though we ask that all children remain under careful supervision as there will be lots of dogs and activity throughout the day.
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What happens if it rains?
Paws & Claus is a rain or shine event. All activities and vendors will be held indoors.
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Is there parking available?
Yes. There is plenty of free parking available.
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Is the event accessible for strollers or wheelchairs?
Yes. The venue and parking area are fully accessible. Volunteers will be on site to assist as needed.
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How does the raffle work?
Raffle tickets will be available for purchase during the event. 100% of proceeds go to Paws of Honor. Winners will be announced throughout the event. If you are selected and have already left, we will notify you via email and you can pick up your prize from the Woofie’s Ashburn office during our business hours.
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How does this event support Paws of Honor?
All proceeds from Paws & Claus benefit Paws of Honor, helping provide free veterinary care for retired military and law enforcement K9s who have served our country and communities.
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Can I make a donation if I can’t attend?
Yes. You can make a direct donation to Paws of Honor using the link below. Every contribution helps provide life-changing veterinary care to retired service dogs.
Make a Donation -
Who can I contact with questions?
Email kscharapowa@woofiesashburn.com for all event inquiries.
Hero Spotlight: K9 Milo
K9 Milo is a 12-year-old Black Labrador Retriever who proudly served in the United States Secret Service Personnel Screening Canine Open Area Unit. Among the first dogs trained by the Service to detect suicide bombers following the Boston Marathon bombing, Milo’s career set the standard for excellence in protection and detection work.
Throughout his distinguished service, Milo traveled across the country on protective details, supporting multiple National Special Security Events, including several Presidential Inaugurations and the Pope’s visit in 2015. For most of his career, Milo’s primary responsibility was protecting the White House and all its visitors.
Now retired, Milo enjoys a slower pace at home, splitting his days between the kitchen at his mom’s feet and his bed in the family room. Even in retirement, his devotion remains strong: he still tries to be the first out the door whenever his handler leaves for work.
K9 Milo will serve as one of two official Paws of Honor Ambassadors at the event, representing the many retired K9s who receive care from Paws of Honor and helping raise awareness of the organization’s mission to honor these heroes with the lifelong care they deserve.
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