The relentless bombings in Ukraine are forcing people to flee the dangerous areas carrying only what is essential. For many, this means just the clothes on their backs and their beloved pets. 

One of the recent attacks hit 12 Guardians' animal clinic, which was housing dozens of rescued animals in preparation for evacuation. Two missiles hit the clinic causing the roof to collapse and trapping animals in their crates. Thankfully, no one - including the animals- were harmed. 

Brave rescuers, like those with 12 Guardians, continue to enter heavily bombed areas and risk their lives to save people and both pets and stray animals. 

Many of the buildings and homes are destroyed in these targeted villages. Those who remain behind find it extremely difficult to leave their home and all they have ever known. Some need convincing while others are ready to evacuate after bombs land nearby. 

People are forced to evacuate clutching their pets to their chests in towels, blankets, or on a leash as they head towards safety. 

The Animal Rescue Site and Greater Good Charities are supporting local evacuation teams working across eastern, southern, and northern Ukraine. These volunteer-led groups play a critical role in transporting civilians -often elderly individuals, people with limited mobility, or families with children- as well as assisting with the evacuation and care of animals. 

In addition to the regular pet food support your donations help provide, we are now providing 150 plastic dog kennels and 150 plastic cat carriers to evacuation teams and shelters in key regions. 

These carriers will keep animals safe during transport and help rescuers save even more lives. Read some heartbreaking yet heartwarming rescue stories shared with us from a longtime partner, United for Animals (UfA). 

A Man and His Cat

Daily bombings convinced a man that it was time to evacuate with what he could carry on his back and his beloved cat safe in a carrier. UfA shared, "While the evacuation was challenging and dangerous, it was not just about saving himself, but also ensuring the safety of his friend who had become his source of support in this difficult time."

A Woman and Two Cats

One woman in a destroyed village needed a bit of convincing to leave her home, but finally after several chats with rescue volunteers and a nearby bombing, she decided it was what was best for her and her beloved cats. 

She hesitated thinking and hoping that the conditions might improve. There was no time to waste, so she climbed into the rescue van with her two cats who she held close to her chest because she didn't have carriers. 

"The woman, determined to get them to safety, held them close as they left everything behind. The journey was not just a physical one, but a psychological struggle too. Leaving her home, the familiar streets, and the life she once had was a painful decision, but the safety of her animals gave her the strength to continue," states UfA. 

Grandma Nina and Her Elderly Dog

A woman called Grandma Nina, and her senior dog have been through a lot together and the constant bombings have taken a toll on them both. They have not slept well for days as the sound of nearby attacks kept them awake and on edge. 

The decision to leave was a difficult one as Nina's daughter remains in the area and works at a local hospital. However, she knew that she and her elderly dog couldn't spend one more night cowering in fear in the basement of their home. 

When rescuers arrived UfA shared that, "Nina rose from the bench on her own, clutching her little companion tightly. She didn’t say much. And she didn’t cry. When the car doors closed, Kostiantynivka was left behind. Empty streets. Shuttered windows. The echo of her daughter’s voice in her heart. But she had taken with her the most precious thing. A small life that had been by her side for so many years. That was her quiet victory."

A Woman, Old Dog, and Two Goats

In a village that is under almost daily attacks lives a couple determined to stay in their home. The husband could not be convinced to leave but the wife finally agreed to evacuate as long as she could bring her senior dog and two goats. 

"She made the painful decision to take only what mattered most. She left Kostiantynivka with her old dog and her two beloved goats. She did not cry. Her eyes were calm. She simply held the leash tightly and stroked the dog gently," shared UfA. 

They went on to share how pet carriers are vital during rescue missions, "Not just for convenience but to save lives. Each small crate means one more safe soul. Today, one woman left with her dog and two goats. Tomorrow, maybe someone else will finally say yes to evacuation. Because they will know someone will be there not only for them but for the lives that quietly wait by their side."

Donate today to help these heroes safely evacuate animals on the frontlines.