At the start of the crisis, 14 million people fled, hoping to return within months. Yet, for many, that return has not been possible. Instead, they have been forced to rebuild their lives in unfamiliar places, leaving behind not only their homes but also millions of pets and stray animals to fend for themselves on the streets.

Those who remain in Ukraine are doing their best to care for abandoned animals, despite facing their own financial hardships. Meanwhile, as international attention shifts to other global crises, media coverage of the war in Ukraine has diminished. Large aid organisations that initially provided millions of dollars in support for Ukrainian animals have now significantly reduced or even halted their contributions.

Before the war, Ukraine’s animal shelters were already stretched to capacity. Now, with millions of animals left behind and many shelter staff displaced, the situation has reached a breaking point. With no room in overcrowded shelters, countless animals are left wandering the streets, vulnerable and alone.

Wild at Heart Foundation works closely with Gregg Tully, an independent animal welfare consultant, who has built up an extensive support network in Ukraine connecting animal shelters, volunteers, veterinary clinics, and pet food manufacturers across southern and northeastern Ukraine. Gregg is running five critical life-saving programmes:

• Feeding abandoned pets to prevent starvation
• Sterilisation to humanely control the stray population
• Rebuilding and repairing shelters to house and protect vulnerable animals
• Emergency veterinary care for injured and sick animals
• Supplying dog houses to help dogs survive the harsh Ukrainian winters

Thanks to your generosity, we have sterilised 341 dogs since the war began, helped to feed over 9,000 animals and supported vital medical treatment; but the work is far from over. The need is still urgent and there are thousands more dogs that require help.