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Free Veterinary Care For Pets Of Ukrainian Refugees Launched Across Europe
European Federation of Companion Animal Veterinary Associations (FECAVA), the Federation of Veterinarians of Europe (FVE) and the through the generous support of Humane Society International (HSI) and partners, are proud to launch today the Vets for Ukrainian Pets program.
This program will allow veterinarians from 38 countries to give free veterinary treatment to animals of refugees from Ukraine.
Danny Holmes, FECAVA President-Elect says: “We are delighted to partner with Humane Society International and FVE to offer support to refugees’ pets in Europe fleeing the war in Ukraine. It is a testament to the dedication of the veterinary and animal welfare organisations to create such a far-reaching scheme in such a short time.”
Rens van Dobbenburgh, president of the FVE, says: “We are grateful to start this joint project together with our sister organisation FECAVA and with the much-appreciated support of Humane Society International. Through this joint project, we will offer a strong, free pet healthcare response to ensure that those arriving with their beloved pets, many that are vulnerable, receive the care and treatment they need. This is about emergency care, long-term treatment for chronic conditions as well as routine health checks.”
Ruud Tombrock, executive director of HSI/Europe, says: “In Europe’s biggest refugee crisis since WWII, millions of Ukrainians have had to take the decision to leave their country and flee the war. Along with a few possessions, many are also taking their pet animals, who they cherish as family members. The trauma of war as well as the stress of the evacuation journey, can make animals vulnerable to a variety of illnesses and so HSI’s Vets for Ukrainian Pets program aims to eliminate barriers to accessing veterinary care for the pets of refugees. It will provide a much-needed safety net for those families fleeing with their beloved pets so that at no point they feel compelled to leave their pets behind due to concerns about being able to care for them.”
Vets for Ukrainian Pets will run until 21 May 2022 and is open for all licensed veterinary clinics to apply throughout Europe. Those clinics wishing to join the program can apply HERE.
Vets for Ukrainian Pets will cover the treatment costs per veterinarian up to five dogs, cats, horses or other pet animals, up to 250 Euros per animal. How it works click HERE
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