The Pet Industry Federation (PIF) has organised the dispatch of a fresh lorry load of pet products to the U-Hearts Foundation in Ukraine.
The U-Hearts project works to protect the thousands of animals abandoned and otherwise affected by the Russian invasion. A number of UK pet companies were involved in the latest consignment of food plus flea and tick treatments, including Johnsons Veterinary Products, Mackle Pet Food and Jollyes. The Big Biscuit Company provided warehouse space as the logistical and administrative processes were carried out.
The donations will benefit a number of pet care groups in Ukraine including pet shelters, volunteers fostering abandoned pets, Samaritans feeding stray animals on the streets, kennel clubs dedicated to training service dogs assisting the Ukrainian army and vulnerable pet owners, particularly the elderly and those living in precarious regions.
PIF chief executive Nigel Baker said: “This initiative underscores our commitment not just to business, but animal welfare. Our collaboration with U-Hearts has ensured that countless pets in Ukraine, affected by the conflict, are given a fighting chance. Our gratitude goes out to all who have contributed, and we continue to stand with Ukraine during these challenging times.”
Paul Gwynn, managing director of Johnsons Veterinary Products, added: “In the brutal conflict we are witnessing in Ukraine, it will always be the human suffering that grabs the headlines. But it’s important to remember the impact such a situation can have on the stress and wellbeing of pets, and indeed the effect that seeing animals in distress can cause to their owners, or those foster carers looking after abandoned pets.
“It has been a great campaign organised by the Pet Industry Federation (PIF) and it’s good to know our donation has already reached the U-hearts warehouse in Kyiv. We understand it is from here the supplies will be distributed across Ukraine, to bring a little help to the undoubtedly distressed, but ultimately resilient pets of the war-torn country.”
