As missiles rain down on Ukraine, terrified cats and dogs are struggling to cope with the loud noises and constant waves of devastation.
A brave group of volunteers has elected to stay behind and support the animals - some of which had to be left behind by desperate families fleeing the war.
More than one million people have left the war-torn country so far - as Russian forces wreak havoc in their bid to take over the country.
Across the globe, aid groups have banded together to help support the humans and animals affected by the atrocities.
This includes The International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW) which was already supporting three animal shelters in Ukraine.
The group is now desperately trying to support the 1,100 dogs living in a precarious war zone, with dwindling food supplies and little access to medical care.
Already their two main shelters have faced a barrage of missiles, which has killed many dogs and cats.
In other similar situations, the charity says animal shelters are normally left alone - but have not escaped the atrocities here.
Now they've dispersed £114,000 of emergency aid and are raising more funds to continue that vital support the volunteers and animals desperately require.
James Sawyer, the charity's regional director, told The Mirror: "The most helpful thing right now is to provide local groups with resources. We can't put boots on the ground, it's too dangerous."
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The group has long-standing relationships with Ukrainian animal shelters and has been supporting them since the 2014 Russia-Ukraine conflict.
On February 27, the Holivka Shelter, located in Gorlovka in eastern Ukraine, which cares for 300 dogs, was hit by a shell and one dog was killed in the facility.
"The shelters workers are currently still in place and we will provide resources so they can carry on caring for the dogs. The conditions are very difficult," James said.
Staff say they are too afraid to cook hot food for the dogs because the fire could draw unnecessary attention to the shelter, so are desperate for dry food.
On March 1, the other main shelter, Pif, located in Donetsk in eastern Ukraine, was badly damaged after being attacked by Russian soldiers, with "many dogs and cats killed".
The shelter cares for over 800 animals and is continuing to protect those that survived.
While staff are still able to purchase supplies locally, the IFAW is aware this will not last and warn that "local supplies are running out".
The IFAW did not expect the animal shelters in Ukraine to be targeted by Russian invaders and say "it came as a surprise".
"It's quite unusual as often we see animals shelters being left alone. They aren't particularly a humanitarian target," said James.
The IFAW is working closely with authorities to provide aid packages but is finding it difficult to get information out of the country.
James added: "We are trying our best to help from outside Ukraine by providing the three shelters with financial support so they can buy supplies, dog food and medical resources.
"We are also working in coordination with a wide range of groups to deal with huge numbers of animals displaced in Poland and Romania.
"Financial resources are needed, and we are looking at long-term options to support people and animals within Ukraine.
"We are working hard globally across this issue. We will continue to be very committed to the animals."
The charity boss predicts a big increase in stray dogs across Ukraine as people haven't been able to flee with their pets.
"We are already seeing groups set up pop-up animal shelters," he said.
On March 1, the IFAW reported that both of its partner shelters in Ukraine had received some emergency funds.
The first grant covered pet food, veterinary supplies and wages for daily care staff to continue their work.
A message from one shelter partner read: "Our dogs are very scared. Many do not leave [their dog houses]. [Indoor] dogs do not go outside. We are without rest and breaks at the shelter.
"It's very difficult for us right now. We are grateful to everyone. We really want peace. We are extremely tired mentally and physically.
"You are there and we feel it. THANKS! 10,000 times THANK YOU to everyone!"
Last week, IFAW partnered with Poznań Zoo in Poland to provide temporary shelter and care for wildlife, and support the incredible team risking their lives to transport lions and tigers to safety.
Zoo director Ewa Zgrabczyńska described the enduring horror vividly, saying: "Animals still alive, but I am crying, the road is full of escaping cars and people, a dramatic situation, time is so important to help them.
"You can't imagine the tragedy of the war here, animals in Kyiv—killed. No food. I feel powerless, but we will try to organise more transfers and will bring food for them."
You can stay up-to-date with IFAW's efforts in Ukraine on their website blog and donate vital funds via their fundraising page.
Do you have a dog story to share? Email nia.dalton@reachplc.com.
