War brings suffering not only to people, but also to animals. Since the beginning of Russian invasion to Ukraine, thousands of pets have been left without proper care or have suffered physical and moral injuries. In this article, we will tell you everything you need to know about helping animals during martial law.

Taking care of your pets

Owners should ensure that the four-legged friends are in a safe place. For every walk, the animal should wear a collar with a chip and the phone number of the owner. This is necessary so that in the event of artillery fire or missile strikes, you do not lose your pet, which ran away from loud noises in an unknown direction.

It is absolutely necessary to offer the animal water and food from time to time. It is better if there is always a favorite toy next to the pet.

Another important aspect is for the owner to stay calm. Our little friends very quickly follow their owner’s condition and can even fall into depression.

Helping other people's animals / street animals

Unfortunately, in the light of recent events, the number of animals without an owner has only increased. Some lost their frightened friend, others left their pets to fend for themselves. In any case, such animals also need help. If you have access to them and the opportunity to feed or water them - do it every day. Many cats and dogs found temporary housing in the basements of apartment buildings. You can take old, unnecessary things to them for a dry and warm sleep.

In many cities of Ukraine, there are services for helping street animals and volunteers who can pick up abandoned four-legged friends and provide them with comprehensive assistance and even find a new family. Contact them if you understand that you are not able to do everything on your own.

Evacuation

When you decide to leave your home, be sure to take your pets with you. Under conditions when this is not possible, take care of the animal - give it to friends or volunteers who will be able to feed it on time and give it proper attention. In no case leave the pet alone. Thus you make it die in agony and fear.

Be sure to take everything you need:

• Water and food for 48 hours;
• Container for feeding;
• Toilet filler;
• Favorite toys;
• Documents (veterinary passport, certificate #1-VET and microchip for crossing the border);
• Warm blanket;
• Carrier or leash.

Hold the animal in your arms, if no other option is provided. But the best thing is to keep the animal in a firmly fixed carrier, where it will not be shaken. It is also better not to let your pet out in an unfamiliar area, because it may run away from stress.

Before a long trip, do not overfeed the four-legged friends and give them a minimum amount of water. Keep them in front of your eyes so that you don't waste time searching before leaving the house.

And most importantly, talk to the animal so that it hears you and knows that it is not alone.