A dog groomer is preparing to drive to Ukraine with a van full of pet food and aid to try and assist those with animals fleeing the war.
Kate Geernaert, is hoping to travel to the Polish border next week with her partner Clint Sheppard and armed with a lorry load of aid for humans and animals.
The pair are aiming to make their way across Europe with several vehicles from the charity Dogbus, first taking the Eurotunnel shuttle to France before driving to the Ukrainian border.
Once they get to Poland, one of the vans cross into Ukraine to provide aid, while others will help those who have crossed the border.
More than one million refugees have already departed Ukraine since the Russian invasion began eight days ago, according to the UN refugee agency.
President Vladimir Putin’s devastating attacks on Ukraine has been condemned internationally, with many countries including the UK responding with heavy sanctions.
Ms Geernaert from Paulton in Somerset has launched a public appeal for donations ahead of the journey.
She is calling for items – including large bags of dog and cat food, jerry cans, medical supplies, leads, carriers, dog coats and blankets – to be gifted to The Dog Groomery in Paulton ahead of Monday, March 7.
Any human aid, from first aid kits to warm clothes for children, will also be kindly received, according to SomersetLive.
The couple have already received hundreds of cash donations totalling more than £10,000.
Ms Geernaert said she had cancelled a holiday to Rome, Italy, to free up time for the trip to Ukraine.
In a Facebook post, she wrote: “As we know, the Ukrainian people and animals are desperate and in need of help. Families are fleeing to safety with their pets and very few belongings and supplies.
“We can’t even imagine how scary this is for these people and pets right now.
“Many of us locally have wondered how we can help, now you can.”
Labour councillor for Paulton, Grant Johnson, has lent his support to the campaign. He wrote on Facebook: “If you can, please donate to this fantastic local initiative [...] which will make sure families fleeing Ukraine with their beloved pets can get them the food they need to survive.
“I think all of us have been shocked at the devastation being caused in Ukraine and heartbroken to see families torn from their loved ones.
“This is one of many aid appeals you will see but uniquely targeted at supporting the pets that will be comforting owners as they make the most perilous journeys of their life. I will give Kate and Clint all my support with this project, and wish them the best of luck.”
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