Help Is Desperately Needed for Horses in Ukraine

There are more than 100,000 horses in Ukraine. Many of the horses are caught up in the war, with no possibility to flee and seek safety, with no shelter and care.

"Horse owners, riding schools, athletes, breeders, and professionals are in desperate conditions without any resources of saving their horses. Owners with horses trapped in Ukraine are in crisis," says Nigel Allsopp, President of the Australian War Animal Memorial Organisation (AWAMO). AWAMO preserves the memory and story of war animals through the establishment of world-class memorials and education programs. AWAMO also directly supports retired Service dogs and other projects helping veterans or animals.

Finding sparse feed in war zones, comforting beloved horses during deadly raids, and trying to evacuate between attacks are almost unimaginable tasks, but they happen many times a day in Ukraine. "Having money in hand for urgent needs can make the difference between life and death," Allsopp continues.

AWAMO- Australian Animal Aid donated funding to assist Elaine Nash and her Equine charity Fleet of Angles.

"This is a trusted, award-winning 501(c)3 US-based non-profit that already has a set up in place that helps Ukrainian equines in crisis. They work directly with qualified owners, providing funds for feed and supplies for horses most at risk during this horrific war." 

Find our more about the Fleet of Angels heret: https://www.fleetofangels.org 

How Else Can You Help the Animals in Ukraine

The Russo-Ukrainian war has already caused tens of thousands of casualties and displacement of people as well as thousands of animals.

Many animals were abandoned by their families who were forced to leave their homes in war zones. Allsopp shares that left to fend for themselves, often these animals have no hope of finding their families again. Read about the ongoing plight of these animals here. 

"A lot of people who might look in the situation and then think 'my God, it's overwhelming.' But everyone can help," says Allsopp. 

If you are able to help, here are ways you can support the Ukraine appeal. 

Military Shop, in partnership with UPAW and AWAMO, has designed these two unique lapel pins. The design displays the Ukraine flag colours with a dog and cat silhouette to symbolise the plight of all the displaced animals during the Ukraine-Russia conflict. Part of the proceeds from the sale of the pins will be sent directly to animal welfare organisations in Ukraine. Get these pins here.