U.S. Soldier Hopes to Relocate 3-Legged Dog from the Middle East: Leaving Him 'Would Go Against My Moral Code'

Army Specialist Cedwin bonded with a German shepherd named Koda while on deployment in the region

A soldier is looking to help a three-legged dog find its fur-ever home with her in the United States.

U.S. Army Specialist Cedwin was serving a deployment in the Middle East when she noticed a dog struggling, Paws of War said in a press release obtained by PEOPLE.

The dog, a German shepherd named Koda, was discovered missing a leg and living in over 100-degree weather with no water, according to the nonprofit, which "assists military members and their pets, rescues and trains dogs to be service dogs and provides companion animals to veterans and first responders."

Cedwin spent time with the canine and helped get him healthy. After developing a bond with Koda, she reached out to her fellow soldiers and authorities about moving him to America. But, according to Paws of War, "she was told it was too large of a mission."

Now, the organization has stepped in to help Cedwin bring the dog to the U.S. by raising funds to cover the costs of transporting Koda and providing medical care, which includes being fitted for a canine prosthetic.

Never miss a story — sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.

“Leaving Koda behind would go against my moral code. There's no way I'm leaving him to die," Cedwin said in a statement. "I am determined to bring him home and ensure his safety and well-being," she continued. "I named him Koda because it means friend in Arabic. It fits his gentle nature and unwavering spirit perfectly.”

In a statement of his own, Robert Misseri, the co-founder of Paws of War, said, "We have rescued Koda, but there is no way that he dog can survive on his own in this harsh climate and with his condition." He added, "Koda deserves to come to America and live a safe and happy life with Spc. Cedwin.”

Those interested in helping Cedwin get Koda to America can do so by visiting the Paws of War website.

The PEOPLE Puzzler crossword is here! How quickly can you solve it? Play now!

For more People news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter!

Read the original article on People.