RSPCA donates £20k to help animals in Ukraine

The RSPCA has pledged £20k to international animal charity Four Paws’ appeal for donations to help animals in Ukraine.

Contributions to international charity will be channelled towards local Ukrainian organisations which are working hard on the ground in the country to care for animals – from dogs who have been lost by their fleeing owners, to wild bears in need.  

The RSPCA said donations from itself and others towards the care of animals in Ukraine complement newly announced free quarantine services for pets arriving from there into the UK with their refugee owners. 

Additionally the RSPCA also said it has been working behind the scenes to assist the UK Government in introducing this new process for refugees entering the UK with their pets. 

Emma Slawinski, RSPCA director of advocacy and policy, said: “The tragic human disaster in Ukraine has had a knock-on effect for the animals there too. 

“With many of Ukraine’s animal welfare services now curtailed or shut down, we are proud to be able to help on-the-ground charities with our donation and would urge others to help if they can via the Four Paw’s website.”

Sonul Badiani-Hamment, UK country director Four Paws UK, said:  “We are incredibly grateful to our friends at the RSPCA for their support. 

“Not only have they kindly donated to our work in Ukraine, but they are also sharing how their supporters can be involved too. This means we can ensure help is provided right where it is needed, in shelters and at railway stations.”

The RSPCA will continue to work as part of Eurogroup for Animals supporting organisations working on the ground in Ukraine to help those animals who have been left behind.