Vets for Ukrainian Pets scheme launched
"It will provide a much-needed safety net for families fleeing with their beloved pets" - Ruud Tombrock.
Thirty-eight European countries, including the UK, will provide free-of-cost veterinary care to the pets of Ukrainian people fleeing the war.
Launched by Humane Society International (HSI) and partners, the service 'Vets for Ukrainian Pets' will cover the treatment costs of up to five dogs, cats, horses or other pets, up to €250 per animal per veterinary surgeon.
This will help with acute care and medication, rabies and other necessary vaccinations, microchipping and medical examination needed for safe passage through the EU.
The initiative will run until 21 May 2022, and is open for all licensed veterinary clinics to apply throughout Europe. Clinics wishing to apply can do so at apply.vetsforukraine.com
Executive director of HSI Europe, Ruud Tombrock, commented on the initiative: “In Europe’s biggest refugee crisis since WWII, millions of Ukrainians have had to take the decision to leave their country and flee the war.
“Along with a few possessions, many are also taking their pet animals, who they cherish as family members.
“The trauma of war as well as the stress of the evacuation journey, can make animals vulnerable to a variety of illnesses and so HSI’s Vets for Ukrainian Pets program aims to eliminate barriers to accessing veterinary care for the pets of refugees.
“It will provide a much-needed safety net for those families fleeing with their beloved pets so that at no point they feel compelled to leave their pets behind due to concerns about being able to care for them.”
Fully funded by HSI, with support from Mars Incorporated, Vets for Ukrainian Pets will work with Federation of Veterinarians in Europe and the Federation of European Companion Animal Veterinary Associations (FECAVA).
Veterinary surgeons who participate will be reimbursed by FECAVA in places that the federation has members, including the UK.
Danny Holmes, FECAVA President Elect said: “We are delighted to partner with Humane Society International and FVE to offer support to refugees’ pets in Europe fleeing the war in Ukraine.
“It is a testament to the dedication of the veterinary and animal welfare organisations to create such a far-reaching scheme in such a short time.”
Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.
