As we pass the one year mark of the Ukrainian invasion, we have learned this past year of the devastation that the people in Ukraine have experienced. The displacement has forced millions of Ukrainians to flee to other countries or other parts of Ukraine. Mainly, women, children, and the elderly have been affected the most. One component that is not often mentioned is that millions of pets have been affected and displaced as well.
There have been countries that have welcomed the refugees along with their pets. Estonia is one, for example, who is allowing the refugees to bring their pets.
There have been some pets, however, that were trapped near the capital of Kyiv and held in animal shelters as their owners had to leave without them.
Thankfully, there have been large organizations that are coordinating support for the animals in shelters, but at times it has been dangerous to get the supplies there. One of the organizations is a Ukrainian nonprofit called UAnimals. Some American organizations like Helen Woodward Animal Center have pledges tens of thousands of dollars to help UAnimals.
Also, the Humane Society International has announced an agreement with the Romanian Red Cross. They will be partnering to transport pet food to the shelters.
The IFAW (International Fund for Animal Welfare is working with local partners like American Humane. They are getting supplies to wildlife sanctuaries and animals shelters in Ukraine.
Another organization to mention is Network for Animals, which has been helping to evacuate dogs and cats from the Ukraine.
Without the help of these courageous organizations, the beloved pets of the Ukrainian refugees would certainly not have fared well at all.
Thank you to all of the organizations who are helping the people and animals in Ukraine.