May 2022

Our Animal Care Team headed back to war-torn Ukraine, this time led by Dr. Joe Del Vecchio.  We collaborated again with Malik of Centaurus Foundation to travel to the capital city of Kyiv. 

After having their van break down and several failed attempts to source another one, they found a ride with volunteers Yannick and Moritz from Germany across the border from Poland to Ukraine. The logistical nightmare continued when they struggled to find fuel at an affordable price—taking a toll on them mentally and physically. 

They treated dogs and cats and even saved a couple of baby owls on the journey, set up pop-up clinics wherever possible, and stopped at small shelters in need.

Overall, the trip was more complex and less productive because the team was not as welcomed this time and found themselves lost in how they could best help.