Hundreds of animals evacuated after dam breached.
Volunteers in Ukraine have been risking their lives to rescue pets from the floods which followed the breaching of the Kakhovka Dam on 6 June.
Since the waters rose, the Save Pets of Ukraine initiative has successfully evacuated more than 1,500 dogs and cats from the city of Kherson, which lies downriver from the dam.
As well as contending with the flood water, volunteers and other civilians in the city have been at risk from shelling.
One of the pets rescued was a Newfoundland named Buddy, who was living in Hydropark, Kherson, the part of the city which was first to be flooded.
Buddy had stayed with his owners during the Russian occupation of the city and subsequent liberation by Ukrainian forces. However, the severe flooding which followed the breaching of Kakhovka Dam led to Buddy running away from home through a gap in a fence.
His owners, who had looked after Buddy since he was a puppy, went out on the water to search for him, but were unable to find him. However, he was found by rescuers who brought him to an animal shelter in Kyiv along with other rescued dogs. He is being looked after there until he can be safely reunited with his owners.
The U-Hearts Foundation, one of the partners of Save Pets of Ukraine, has sent essential supplies to the city, including six tonnes of pet food, milk for kittens, metal saws to cut chains and locks, and nets and gloves to safely capture animals.
The charity has also provided veterinary medicines such as antiseptics and sedatives as well as transportation cages to help move animals to safer regions.
Yuriy Tokarski, chief executive officer of the U-Hearts Foundation, said: “The work done by volunteers in Kherson to rescue and evacuate pets and animals from flooded homes is amazing! They are risking their own lives under the artillery fire, and were able to rescue over 1,500 cats and dogs in just one week.
“We are humbled by their commitment and are proud to keep supporting their effort!”
Image (C) U-Hearts Foundation
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.
