Kharkiv volunteers have evacuated 18,800 animals from under fire during the 2.5 years of full-scale war, primarily dogs and cats, but also horses, wolves, and exotic fish, according to UkrInform.
The evacuation teams of the organization “Animal Rescue Kharkiv” primarily operate in Kharkiv and Donetsk oblasts. After the Russians blew up the Kakhovka Dam, they assisted in Kherson Oblast as well. On average, they evacuate 700-800 animals per month, says project representative Yaryna Vintoniuk.
According to her, the biggest challenge is ensuring each evacuation amid Russian shelling and harsh war conditions.
“We need vehicles and fuel. Volunteers work under fire and in off-road conditions—vehicles break down, and they get hit by shrapnel. For example, in May, we lost three vehicles in Vovchansk,” Vintonuk noted.
During one of these evacuations, the “Animal Rescue” vehicle was attacked by a drone.
“There was a drop near the vehicle while we were already driving with the animals. One of the volunteers has returned to work, and the other is still receiving treatment,” Vintoniuk reported.
After evacuation, all rescued animals are examined by doctors at a clinic in Kharkiv, where surgeries and treatments are provided if necessary. Less than 20% of the animals have injuries, mostly due to exhaustion from being in combat zones.
About 20% of the evacuated animals are later taken by their owners. Currently, new homes are being sought for 1,500 thousand animals. The organization has crews that transport animals within Ukraine to people who are ready to take in a cat or dog. “Animal Rescue” also organizes transportation abroad and prepares all the necessary documents for this.
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