Volunteers rescued more than 200 animals from Vovchansk and Lyptsy in Kharkiv Region over the past 5 days

Amidst ongoing shelling of border areas in Kharkiv Region by russia, evacuation efforts are underway to rescue civilians and their pets from dangerous settlements. The Kharkiv Animal Rescue NGO is actively involved in this mission, transporting animals to the regional center, ensuring their well-being, and seeking new homes for them.

Yaryna Vintoniuk, communications manager of the Kharkiv Animal Rescue NGO, provided insights to Hromadske Radio about their operations:

«Due to the situation in Vovchansk and Lyptsy, we receive numerous calls to our hotline from people who have either left or are in the process of leaving. Everyone wants to save their animals; no one wants to leave anyone behind, at least not morally.

We operate with two teams: one in Vovchansk and the other in Lyptsy. In Vovchansk, we conduct two trips daily. The situation is deteriorating daily. Yesterday, we were unable to access certain parts of the city where we were the day before. Vovchansk has a vast residential area with many dogs, so our focus is mainly on dogs. However, we also rescue cats, goats, chinchillas, and chickens. Over the past four days, we have rescued 167 animals from Vovchansk and 39 from Lyptsy».

Vintoniuk highlighted the challenges faced by pet owners during evacuations. Most people are unable to bring their animals with them. They are often not allowed on evacuation buses, in hostels, or even in rented accommodation.

«Unfortunately, over 95% of animals are left behind by their owners due to these restrictions or lack of options. People are accommodated in dormitories where pets are not allowed».

All rescued animals are brought to Kharkiv, where they undergo examination at the organization’s veterinary clinic. Subsequently, efforts are made to find new shelters for them due to space constraints.

«We are currently facing a crisis as we lack sufficient space to accommodate these animals. Therefore, we appeal to everyone in Ukraine and abroad who can assist. Whether it’s organizations involved in animal fostering or individuals willing to adopt even one animal, every bit of help counts. While space is limited, we are prepared to transport animals across Ukraine as the situation is critical».

The Kharkiv Animal Rescue organization, comprising over 120 personnel, has been operating for an extended period. However, there are ongoing needs that require support:

«We currently care for over 1500 animals in Kharkiv. Throughout the war, we have rescued over 15,000 animals. Consequently, we manage large volumes. Our primary needs include spaces for animals, Starlink connectivity in vehicles for our rescuers, fuel, and crates for evacuating animals. Additionally, animals often arrive stressed and with various ailments, many of which are untreated for parasites. Hence, we require antiparasitic medications, vaccines, collars, and medicines».