The headlines regarding what is going on in Ukraine may have faded, but the urgent need for assistance has not. Paws of War has been committed to helping the desperate animals in Ukraine since the start of Russia's invasion. They have helped to feed, and shelter animals that have been left behind as people flee the violence, and they have successfully reunited a rescued cat with an American soldier who saved and bonded with him. Now, they are calling on people in the community to help them expand their efforts in the war-torn country.
"As one can imagine, there is so much work that needs to be done to help the abandoned and hungry animals in Ukraine," said Robert Misseri, co-founder of Paws of War. "We are and will continue to do all we can to help them, and we appreciate any support we get from others who want to back up the effort."
Since the beginning of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, volunteers have been on the ground in the country, helping the animals. Many have been left behind by families who have had to flee and could not take their pets with them. The animals have been left behind to fend for themselves, starving and without shelter. As winter sets in, many animals are in dire situations where they are freezing.
Paws of War volunteers have been working tirelessly to care for as many of the animals as possible. The organization has set out feeding stations and shelters so that the animals can obtain food. They have also erected spay and neuter clinics to help keep the animal population from booming under such conditions. On January 25, 2025, the organization held a clinic in the city of Ismail, where they assisted over 150 cats and dogs with spay and neuter services, food, and more. They also installed 50 new feed stations in that city alone, preventing countless starvations.
The efforts in Ukraine began with the rescue and successful reunion of a cat named Yogurt with a U.S. Army soldier who had been deployed there shortly before the invasion. Sgt. G discovered the starving and freezing cat near the back of the barracks and took him in, nursing him back to health. He cared for Yogurt daily, forming a loving bond. Unable to bear the thought of leaving Yogurt behind in a dangerous situation, he reached out to Paws of War for assistance. The organization quickly worked to bring Yogurt to the U.S., where he and Sgt. G were joyfully reunited and now live together.
“People in Ukraine are beyond appreciative for the things we are doing to help save their pets. We will continue our efforts in Ukraine, and around the world, for as long as we are needed,” added Misseri. “There are so many animals in dire need due to the ongoing conflict and we can’t turn our back on them. With the help of others, we will continue to provide help to keep the many animals from freezing and starving to death.”
To help support Paws of War’s efforts in Ukraine, as well as their other missions of protecting animals, visit the site here:https://pawsofwar.org/?form=SavingAnimalVictimsOfWar
Paws of War also focuses on giving back to veterans in various ways. They have helped veterans with numerous issues, including suicide prevention, service and support dogs, companion cats and dogs, food insecurity, veterinary care, etc. Paws of War has a large loyal following of supporters and looks forward to working with new corporate sponsors to support these life-saving programs. To donate to help their missions, visit its site at http://pawsofwar.org.
