The place? A remote US army base, tucked somewhere in the frostbitten wilderness.
The temperature?
Let’s just say it’s colder than a polar bear’s toenails.
You might think the soldiers’ Christmas wish list would be filled with things like hot coffee, extra blankets, or maybe even a surprise visit from Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson.
But nope, not this year. This year, they’ve gone all in for the animal kingdom.
In a turn of events that even Santa Claus himself couldn’t have predicted, the brave men of the US army have put out an urgent SOS – not for more ammo or better rations – but for the rescue of some furry friends.
We’re talking puppies and a cat, who like them, are trying their best to survive in this bone-chilling weather.
No matter how much fluff they’ve got going on, they need our help to battle the icy grip of winter.
Now, don’t get us wrong, we’re not suggesting you knit your pup a full body sweater, or start sharing your hot cocoa with them.
We’re talking about the real dangers that cold weather poses to dogs.
See, dogs may seem invincible, with their tireless energy and love for snow, but deep down they’re as sensitive as a snowflake in July.
Leave them out in the cold too long and you’re inviting a whole host of problems. First off, they could start to shiver like a hairless cat at a pool party.
Sure it might look cute and you might be tempted to film it and post it on social media for likes, but that’s your dog’s way of saying “Help! I’m freezing my tail off!”
Beyond the shivers, dogs can actually get frostbite.
Yes, that thing your mom warned you about when you refused to wear mittens as a kid.
It’s not just a myth! Dogs can get frostbite on their paws, ears, and tail. And trust us, a dog with frostbitten ears is not a happy camper.
But now… you’ve got to picture it: battle-hardened warriors, draped in camouflage and armed to the teeth, huddled around a makeshift kennel, cooing at a bunch of shivering puppies and a single, nonchalant cat.
If that doesn’t melt your heart faster than a snowflake on a hot stove, we don’t know what will. Now imagine their predicament.
They can’t very well tuck the little furballs into their jackets – there’s no room, what with all the military gear.
And sharing their rations? Let’s face it, MREs (Meals Ready to Eat) aren’t exactly gourmet pet food.
So they did what any reasonable person faced with a kitten and puppies in freezing weather would do – they called for a rescue mission.
The signal went out across the airwaves: “Mayday! Mayday! We are under attack by extreme cuteness and freezing temperatures! Requesting immediate backup!”
Alright, maybe they didn’t say it exactly that way, but you get the drift.
“Most are just puppies and they don’t stand a chance against the harsh elements and ever-present danger lurking in every direction and, as the temperatures plunge and snow begins to fall, they are already struggling,” New York-based nonprofit Paws of War told Fox News Digital.
The organization’s founder, Robert Misseri, says they are hoping to bring all the pups and cats back to safety – in America.
“Alongside the many dangers these animals face overseas, the winter weather is brutal,” Misseri shared in a statement.
“With snow and below-freezing temperatures, these [animals] have nowhere to go if not with the soldiers who are doing their best to protect them.”
“We are working around the clock to be able to rescue everyone, but this is a big operation, and due to the increase in war and unrest, we have been inundated with requests for help from our troops to save the animals they love.”
As word spread about this unique Christmas wish, folks back home sprung into action. After all, no one wants to be a Grinch at Christmas time, especially when there are adorable pets involved.
Plans were drawn up for an elaborate rescue operation involving helicopters, thermal blankets, and lots of pet-friendly snacks.
So as we hunker down this holiday season with our hot cocoa and warm fireplaces, let’s spare a thought for our heroes overseas who are braving freezing weather and fighting off cold paws to make sure these puppies and cat get their Christmas miracle.
Because this year at least one US Army unit’s Christmas wish isn’t about them – it’s about ensuring that all creatures great and small have a safe and warm holiday season.
Now if only we could get them to sing ‘Jingle Bells’…the animals I mean, not the soldiers.