A Ray of Hope in Kherson:
The Impact of SNIP International’s Support

World Wide Vets worked in Ukraine throughout 2022, dealing with stray animals and offering free TNR and treatments for the pets that were abandoned along the frontline and relinquished into shelters due to the war. More info on this on www.worldwidevets.com/ukraine.
In April 2023 they returned to Ukraine with a donated mobile vet clinic. They found that animals on the frontline are now very distrusting, after a year of abandonment, bombs, soldiers, tanks etc. Many of the cats are feral and they often see cats which are injured (bomb blasts, shot, broken legs and so on). They are hurt, scared, and in desperate need of treatment as well as TNR. 
World Wide Vets were busy organising their mobile clinic, medications and surgical supplies, ballistic helmets, permits and funding/sponsoring to help with their venture. SNIPi agreed to donate all the necessary equipment consisting of 10 folding traps, 1 squeeze cage, a throw net for dogs, and animal handling gauntlets. We also agreed to donate a dog pole and a cat grabber as they specifically requested these to rescue animals trapped in the rubble by their rear ends as there is a risk of rabies infection for the people involved.

We recently received an update from Dr Gemma Campling at Worldwide Vets about the incredible work they are doing in an area deeply affected by conflict, Kherson. We wanted to share this heartening report with you, showcasing the extraordinary difference our collective efforts have made.

Donation of Essential Equipment

Our recent donation of handling and restraint equipment to Worldwide Vets has not only been a success but a symbol of hope. Photographs received from the field depict these tools in action, aiding in the care of animals affected by the conflict. Your contributions have empowered this vital work, and we sincerely thank you

Healing Amidst Turmoil:
A Beacon of Compassion

On the frontline of conflict, Kherson faces daily challenges. Artillery attacks and the sound of missiles are constant, with Russian forces actively engaged across the river bank. A dam bombing last month caused severe flooding, resulting in many animal rescues and treatment for a wide range of injuries. The Worldwide Vets team’s response has been both diligent and compassionate.

Bitches being spayed in the operating theatre of the mobile veterinary clinic

Bitches being spayed in the operating theatre of the mobile veterinary clinic

Bitches being spayed in the operating theatre of the mobile veterinary clinic

Bitches being spayed in the operating theatre of the mobile veterinary clinic

Community Unity: Strength in Adversity

Despite challenges, including building damage and ongoing explosions, the team continues to perform animal rescue and surgery with unwavering commitment. Treating conditions such as pneumonia, fractures, and bacterial outbreaks, their work is a beacon of support in a community under severe stress.

Local residents are actively participating in animal care, rounding up strays for treatment, and sterilisation.

Treated cats ready to be released

Treated cats ready to be released

Out on a dog catching mission

Out on a dog catching mission

A happy patient on his way home after treatment

A happy patient on his way home after treatment

The mobile vet clinic en route!

The mobile vet clinic en route!

Thank You: Making a Difference Together

Your support of SNIP International’s donation of equipment to Worldwide Vets has enabled crucial animal care in Kherson. Together, we’ve provided not only essential veterinary services but a sense of hope and unity to a community facing extraordinary challenges.

We extend heartfelt gratitude to Dr Campling and the entire team at Worldwide Vets for their unwavering dedication. A special thank you to our supporters, whose generosity makes these stories of hope and healing possible.

Bullet proof vests need to be worn when out in the field

Bullet proof vests need to be worn when out in the field

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HOW WE CAN HELP YOU

Currently, SNIP International donates humane catching and holding equipment only through the International Companion Animal Welfare Conference (ICAWC) and the International Training Programme. For more information about these events, please contact DogsTrust Worldwide. Link to DogsTrust Worldwide.