Survival Story - Rescued From a Bombed Building in Kherson

Along the frontlines of the war in Ukraine, there’s a crisis of abandoned pets. Millions of people who lived in these devastated areas have escaped to safety, and many weren’t able to bring their family pets with them. Countless dogs and cats are left roaming the streets without survival skills.

An elderly man who lives near Kherson, across the river from Russian-occupied territory, kept seeing abandoned cats wandering in his neighbourhood, hungry and unable to find protection from the rain and cold, especially in winter. Since there was no animal shelter in the area that had the capacity to accept more cats, he started to bring these animals into his house and feed them. As the conflict worsened and more people fled their homes, he rescued more cats from starvation and eventually took care of more than 60. While the conditions in his house were far from ideal, it was far better than leaving cats to starve in a conflict zone.

Until tragedy struck. A Russian attack hit the upper floor of his house where the cats were living and setting it on fire. Sadly, nearly all of the cats died.

One ginger cat escaped with severe burns and was very lucky to be rescued by Anna Kurkurina, one of our long-term partners in Ukraine who we support with veterinary treatment, pet food and spay/neuter surgeries. The cat, now named Natasha, needed extensive veterinary treatment for her burns and no one knew if she would survive. Anna fostered her during her treatment and recovery.

We are delighted to report that Natasha has not only made a full recovery, but has now been adopted to a loving home! After the unthinkable trauma and suffering she’s endured, including losing two homes because of the war, she now gets to cuddle on the couch and play with toys.

Helping the animal victims of the war in Ukraine is often heart-breaking, but stories like Natasha’s make it all worthwhile.

Through your support and the dedication of hundreds of volunteers in Ukraine, we can ensure there are more success stories.

Read more about our Ukraine Emergency Response project:

How can you help

1. Donate: Your financial support can provide essential resources such as food, medical care, and shelter for stray animals in conflict zones:

2. Educate: Raise awareness about the importance of supporting stray animal charities and the impact of stray animals on the environment and local communities.