Over 2,000 stray pets neutered in Ukraine
“After war broke out in Ukraine, thousands of dogs and cats were left to survive alone on the streets” – Gregg Tully.
The animal welfare organisation Save the Dogs and Other Animals has successfully neutered more than 2,000 stray cats and dogs in Ukraine.
So far, 1,520 cats and 495 dogs have been neutered, microchipped and vaccinated in the city of Odesa, and provided with food.
Initially, the project had aimed to help 1,000 pets in six months, but the progress being made means that Save the Dogs is hopeful of being able to help 3,000 pets and possibly expand the project to other cities.
The number of stray animals in Ukraine has significantly increased since the full-scale Russian invasion, and neutering has become an animal welfare priority.
Gregg Tully, country director at Save The Dogs and Other Animals, said: “After war broke out in Ukraine, thousands of dogs and cats were left to survive alone on the streets.
“While our priority was ensuring they received enough food, it became critical to prevent them from breeding uncontrollably.
“These puppies would be condemned to a lifetime of suffering. Not only are they located in areas where war is still raging, but many cities are completely deserted and there is no one there to feed them.
“Volunteers are already monitoring a tremendous number of animals, and the food we can send is barely enough to feed them, never mind countless more.”
The project is receiving funding from Blue Cross’s Ukraine Fund, which was launched in 2022 to support the work of partner charities in the war-torn country.
Anna Wade, public affairs manager at Blue Cross, said: “Sadly the war is continuing to have such a devastating effect across Ukraine and there is still much work to do.
“The compassion and dedication of our charity partners Save the Dogs on the ground to rescue pets and care for them day to day, is overwhelming and we’re doing all we can to support their vital work.”
Image © Shutterstock
Defra has published guidance for the vet sector ahead of a proposed UK-EU Sanitary and Phytosanitary agreement.
