Getting on the road and supporting animal welfare in Kupyansk

Naturewatch Foundation

Naturewatch Foundation - Advancing Animal Welfare

Working collaboratively to rescue animals in crisis.

In 2024, Naturewatch Foundation, in collaboration with the Helen Woodward Animal Center, made a significant contribution to animal welfare in Kupyansk by purchasing a vehicle for the local non-governmental organisation, Promin Myloserdia. In English, their name means ‘ray of mercy’.

This organisation, led by Victoria Kruchyna, and supported by a small team of four dedicated individuals, is on the front line of rescuing and rehabilitating animals in an area heavily affected by the ongoing conflict.

Why is the van needed in Ukraine?

Many of Ukraine’s cities are now rubble, where homeless animals try to survive amongst the ruins.

Brave missions to rescue and support them become more challenging when the network of roads and bridges have been damaged or destroyed by bombs.

Before acquiring the van, Victoria and her team had to rely on local drivers, which was not only costly, but also challenging due to the dangers and scarcity of willing drivers in the area.

When transport wasn’t available, Victoria resorted to desperate measures to get animals the help they needed, often carrying dogs in her arms to the vet for treatment.

Her remit extends to other animals in crisis too, including a swan in Kupyansk. A kind passer-by noticed the swan had an injured wing, so he

called Kharkiv Animal Rescue, who contacted Victoria. Together, they took the swan on a public bus to Kharkiv for treatment. Afterwards, they returned him to where he was found.

Without proper transport, these noble animal rescue efforts are severely affected as regular cars are unable to navigate the treacherous and obstacle-ridden terrain.

The new vehicle provides the independence needed to respond promptly to emergencies, ensuring that animals receive the care they need without the delays and high costs associated with previous methods.

Rescuing street animals on a daily basis

Promin Myloserdia responds to daily calls about animals in need. Victoria and her team rescue street animals, provide necessary medical treatments, sterilise them, and work tirelessly to find them new homes.

In a region with no local veterinary services due to its proximity to the front line, their work is crucial for the wellbeing of these animals.

Transporting animals safely

The van is equipped to transport animals safely and efficiently. It allows Victoria to take animals to Kharkiv for veterinary care, which is essential as Kupyansk lacks these services.

The van is also used to evacuate abandoned animals from surrounding villages, often following calls from military personnel. This mobility is vital for addressing urgent animal welfare needs in a region with limited resources.

Much-needed food and supplies for animals can also be delivered in the vehicle.

Project timeline and future goals

Our partnership with Victoria and Promin Myloserdia began in 2020 with funding for stray animal sterilisation.

Victoria’s efforts nearly resolved the stray animal issue in Kupyansk, but the outbreak of the war reversed much of this progress. Many animals were lost, abandoned, or brought in from nearby villages as their owners fled or perished.

We are now working to address this resurgence of stray animals, with military personnel frequently bringing in puppies. Read more about our spay and neuter project in Ukraine.

Appreciation from the field

Victoria Kruchyna shared her gratitude to Naturewatch Foundation’s supporters, saying, “This van has been a game-changer for us. We can now reach animals in need without the constant worry of finding a driver. It’s a relief to know we can provide timely care and transport for these vulnerable animals.”

By providing this vehicle, we are empowering Promin Myloserdia to continue their essential work more effectively and ensure that animal welfare in Kupyansk can be addressed, even in these challenging times.

Our goal is to keep supporting these heroes on the ground and make a lasting impact on animal welfare in the region.

Thank you for your continued support in making such crucial projects possible.

Did you know?

We’ve been working in Ukraine since 1994, including:

• humane education
• police training
• supporting animal shelters
• campaigning for stronger legislation

Read more here.

The post Getting on the road and supporting animal welfare in Kupyansk first appeared on Naturewatch Foundation and is written by Morwenna.