By Simone Limbu and Agnes Ratniece
More than 10 million people have fled Ukraine, thanks to the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine. In the chaos of war, Ukrainian citizens are either forced to leave their beloved pets behind or face months of separation under strict UK regulations.
Many people have taken their pets, such as cats, parrots, bunnies, and dogs, along with them as they fled in search of safety. Sadly, many of them have been abandoned by their owners due to the restrictions imposed on Ukrainian borders and in neighbouring countries.
PETA, an animal welfare organisation, is working to rescue animals from war zones and has delivered 120 tonnes of desperately needed food to the country.
Jennifer White, manager of the PETA foundation said: “Within a month, PETA has been successful at bringing about 1,000 animals to safety and helped many people fleeing the country with their animal companions.”
“Reduced” quarantine
UK regulations require that refugees who arrive at the border with pets be assisted by the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), who provide paperwork, free vaccinations and quarantine, but the pets could still spend up to four months in quarantine facilities.
Animal Welfare Minister Lord Goldsmith on Tuesday emergency support said: “As part of our new streamlined process, any animals which have already received some treatment may also have their stay in quarantine reduced and be returned back to their owner as soon as possible.”
PETA UK has written to George Eustice, Secretary of State for Environment, Food, and Rural Affairs, urging him to relax entry restrictions so that Ukrainian refugees can bring their pets with them.
Tom, a British Army veteran, and his UK-based animal rescue organisation, Breaking the Chains, went to a shelter that had been blown up twice and tried to help the animals, some of whom were trapped inside.
He told the DailyMail: “One was trying to bite me because he was scared. They were all scared, but we were able to get all the animals out of there, so that’s good.”
“I can’t imagine how traumatised both the owners and pets are feeling, I get anxiety even leaving my two dogs when I leave them at the care when I go for holidays,” says Laura May, mother of two furry babies. “I am always worried and end up making my vacations short than I usually plan.”
With organisations like PETA and volunteers rescuing and bringing animals to safety, citizens can also help the abandoned animals in Ukraine through charities like these.
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