Last week we had written about the cost of the Ukrainian crisis on humans and animals which is huge and unthinkable. As the war wages on in Ukraine we bring to you some stories of people wouldn’t leave pets behind in war-torn Ukraine. They are doing everything possible to take their dogs [and cats] along with them. Ones who are unable to are deciding to stay in Ukraine as leaving their pets behind is unthinkable.
Some of these people fleeing Ukraine along with their pets were questioned if its selfish to evacuate dogs at a time when humans are facing dire consequences. Their response was quite straightforward. It’s also selfish to leave pets behind as they possibly won’t survive and because they are family too.
Here are some photos:
Human + Dog stories: people wouldn’t leave pets behind in war-torn Ukraine
Volunteers working tirelessly to rescue animals in Ukraine
Alongside pet parents several animal welfare organisations and individual rescuers are hard at work to ensure pets and strays are safe. A Latvian volunteer Rasma Krecia is working tirelessly to help pets cross the border into Poland and stay there until reunited with families after the war.
Some of the brave tales of these volunteers working towards protecting animals are also gut wrenching. A 26-year-old volunteer Ukrainian woman Anastasiia Yalanskaya was killed last week on her way while she was on her way to deliver food to a dog shelter in Bucha, around 30 kilometres outside of Kyiv.
A list of things needed while relocating pets
Meanwhile here is a checklist that’s always good to keep handy irrespective of a crisis. It comes in handy in case of planned or sudden relocation.
- Pet passport
- Microchip details
- Updated vaccination records
- Be aware of pet-related regulations applicable in the countries of departure and arrival
- Agencies that facilitate pet relocation
