BVA statement on the situation in Ukraine

Malcolm Morley, BVA Junior Vice President, said: “Like everyone we are deeply concerned and saddened by the ongoing crisis unfolding in Ukraine. We will monitor the situation closely over the coming weeks, and would advise any members who wish to support the humanitarian response to make a donation to charity appeals such as the ones being run by British Red Cross, Save the Children and UNICEF. As a gesture of support to the Ukrainian veterinary community, BVA will also offer free membership to any Ukrainian veterinary professionals looking to settle in the UK.

“Following lobbying from FVE, the European Commission is allowing member states to authorise entry for pets accompanying Ukrainian refugees without them needing to make a prior application for an individual permit.  The International Fund for Animal Welfare has also compiled a list of information and resources for people who are fleeing the country with their pets.”

For those looking to support animal-specific causes, Eurogroup for Animals is sharing a list of animal protection organisations working in Ukraine or supporting animals travelling with refugees.

Update: 4 March

FVE, along with FECAVA and the World Veterinary Association, has launched an online portal to coordinate aid by European vets to help Ukrainian vets, their families and animals. 

Update: 15 March

Defra has issued a statement to announce new emergency support for those fleeing Ukraine with their pets. Using an emergency licence, Ukrainian nationals will be able to bring their pets to the UK with any quarantine costs met by the Government.