More than 72,000 internally displaced pet owners have received assistance from the Ukrainian Red Cross and Humane World for Animals

Since 2022, the Ukrainian Red Cross, in partnership with Humane World for Animals, has been implementing a programme to support families affected by the war. Particular attention is given to assisting the pets of internally displaced people and other vulnerable groups.

Since the start of the full-scale war in Ukraine, more than 72,000 internally displaced pet owners and over 155,000 pets across 22 regions of Ukraine have received assistance. As part of the programme, more than 544 tonnes of pet food have been distributed, along with over 79,000 essential items, including pet carriers, grooming supplies, litter trays and other basic necessities.

Supporting pets is an important component of comprehensive humanitarian assistance. For many families, pets are considered family members. Even when forced to leave their homes due to hostilities, people did not abandon their animals — they rescued them and continued to care for them under extremely difficult circumstances. Being able to stay together with their pets has a positive impact on the emotional well-being of both children and adults and helps people cope with the effects of stress and traumatic experiences.

The Ukrainian Red Cross expresses its sincere gratitude to Humane World for Animals for its trust, strategic partnership and joint efforts to support people and their pets during the war.