How a Simple Supply Run Turned Into a Rescue Operation
When the news headlines are constantly dominated by war, tariffs, blockades, and protests, it’s more important than ever to share stories of positivity and kindness and remind ourselves that there are some pretty amazing people out there doing extraordinary things, even under the most challenging of circumstances.
Earlier this month, under the cover of darkness, soldiers from Ukraine’s 14th Separate Mechanized Brigade were tasked with delivering food and supplies to their fellow comrades who had been deployed to a remote location. Whilst this delivery was an important one, it turns out that the soldiers at the other end had sent some even more precious cargo on the return flight: one adorably scruffy terrier and a very handsome grey & white tuxedo cat. The cat had been cared for by one of the soldiers who had been injured and transported to the hospital. His comrades wanted to surprise him by retrieving his feline friend and sending him to safety. However, a small dog had also appeared on the scene, and the soldiers couldn’t bear the thought of leaving him behind. And so, with the use of an improvised pet carrier and some very careful flying, the two were flown 7.5 miles to safety.
In a video shared by the official Ukrainian fundraising platform launched by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to collect charitable donations from across the globe, United24, you can hear the joy in the soldier’s voices as they greet the animals on their safe return, with one commenting that the cat must be purring because he got to fly by drone! The soldiers are clearly thrilled to see how happy and relaxed the pair appear, making fast friends with the waggy-tailed terrier and delighting in the loud purring from the cat as it enjoys some affectionate head rubs and chin tickles. We’re not sure we’d be so calm after being flown 12 kilometers in a shopping bag! We’ll definitely be keeping an eye out for the reunion between this airborne cat and the soldier who loves him, and to find out what is next for this sweet little terrier.
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Dr. Karyn Kanowski, BVSc MRCVS (Vet)
Dr. Karyn is originally from Queensland, Australia, and has resided in the UK for the past 10 years. She graduated from The University of Queensland School of Veterinary Science in 2010, and also holds a Bachelor’s degree in Zoology. Karyn is passionate about using experience, evidence, and working with pet owners to provide the best solutions for pets. She also believes in making reliable information about animal health accessible to everyone. 5 cats and 4 dogs let her share their home with her and her husband, and when she is not practising as a veterinary surgeon, she spends her time writing, gardening, and cleaning up pet hair!
