Fears that Russian soldiers are eating dogs and cats spark pet rescue efforts in Ukraine – World News

Charities launch rescue operation to rescue dogs and cats from Ukraine war zone and house them in Poland as reports claim starving Russian militants are ‘eating animals’.

A major effort is being made to rescue thousands of pets from Ukraine – amid reports that starving Russian soldiers have taken to eating cats, dogs and rabbits.

At an animal shelter in Kraków, Poland, 120 rescued dogs are waiting to be given a new home.

Iga Glazewska, Polish director of Humane Society International said: “At the Polish/Ukrainian reception sites we continue to see people arriving with their dogs or cats in their arms or riding in their backpacks.

“These people have run for their lives taking only the most valuable things they have, and that includes beloved pets.

“We saw many hungry, tired and confused animals. We provide groceries and supplies to make the onward journey more comfortable.”

Civil protection expert Kelly Donithan, who traveled from the US to help, said: “A lot of people can’t transport their animals, so we’re doing what we can to help.

“We know that many animals are in a desperate situation, especially in eastern Ukraine.”

Two veterinarians in Odessa have refused to leave the city and are working around the clock to rescue animals trapped in houses.

Leonid Stoynov, 36, and wife Valentina, 28, have nearly 100 animals, including a monkey, 30 dogs, cats, rabbits, lizards and snakes.

Leonid said: “We smash doors because the owners send us a message asking for our help.

“We’ll send them photos when their pets are safe.”