The profession came together at the start of the Ukraine conflict under the banner of British Veterinary Professionals for Ukraine to provide direct support for medics in Ukraine—both human and veterinary.
The way is now clear for veterinary medicines to be sent to Ukraine. British Veterinary Professionals for Ukraine will be using established contacts with private and state veterinary surgeons and existing logistics chains to facilitate the supply of veterinary medicines to where they are needed. The group has already organized multiple shipments of humanitarian aid.
With normal supply chains disrupted or destroyed, veterinary surgeons within Ukraine are appealing for supplies of veterinary medicines to treat a range of animals, including domestic pets, pigs and zoo animals.
“Animals have not been spared from the horrific death and destruction in Ukraine, and external support is needed urgently to limit their suffering,” said David Rendle, president elect of the British Equine Veterinary Association (BEVA). “In addition to the pets that require treatment within and around Ukraine, there is a desperate need for help in Ukraine’s zoos, rescue centers and farms.”
There are a number of ways people can support this vital initiative:
- Supplies can be sent to BVP4UA c/o Hoermann Equine, Wrights Lodge East, Oakham Road, Whissendine, Rutland, LE15 7HA. A list of specific requirements is available on the BVP4UA facebook page https://www.facebook.com/groups/britishvetsforukraine.
- Veterinary practices can purchase supplies through their regular wholesalers (MWI/Covetrus/NVS) and have them delivered direct to BVP4UA by emailing their wholesaler with details of what they want to donate. Other companies who do not operate through wholesalers may also be prepared to deliver direct.
- Cash donations can be made via gofundme to allow direct purchasing of the most needed veterinary supplies https://gofund.me/f7f25366.
Malcolm Morley, junior vice president of The British Veterinary Association, said “BVP4UA have worked tirelessly over the last few weeks, and what they have already achieved is astounding. It has been incredible to see this level of cooperation and collaboration across the veterinary profession in support of the people and animals of Ukraine. Our profession at its best. Now that we can provide more direct veterinary support, I fully expect the British people to rise to the challenge of helping veterinary surgeons who are dealing with the fall-out of this horrific conflict.”
British Veterinary Professionals for Ukraine is keen to hear from any companies able to donate or subsidize veterinary supplies. For further information see https://www.facebook.com/groups/britishvetsforukraine, https://www.bvp4ua.com or contact david.rendle@beva.org.uk.
A list of the supplies that are most urgently needed is available on this image.
