In the midst of the conflict in Ukraine, a dog and a cat found themselves stranded on the battlefield but were rescued in a unique way—by drone transport, as reported by recent news.
Members of Ukraine’s 14th Separate Mechanized Brigade demonstrated their resourcefulness by airlifting Barsik the cat and Zagybluk the dog to safety using a drone, according to CNN World News.
The animals had become familiar companions to the soldiers, who had formed a bond with them. When it became necessary to evacuate the animals, the military promptly devised a rescue plan.
“The team placed them in specially designed breathable pouches, securely attached them to the drone, and carried out the evacuation,” shared Nadiya Zamryga, a spokesperson for the brigade, with CNN.
The mission demanded precise skill from the drone operator, who navigated a 10-kilometer, or about 6.2-mile, flight path, ensuring a gentle landing for the animals, Zamryga explained.
Thankfully, both Barsik and Zagybluk emerged from their dramatic rescue unharmed and are safe following their intense experience.
Barsik was recognized by his “cat dad,” a soldier who had been wounded and is now recovering, and they’re about to reunite.
As for Zagybluk, he’s decided to take up with the troops — at a rear position — where he’s loving life with his new soldier companions.
“The stress from the drone flight passed very quickly. These animals have been with the guys for two years and they’re not willing to give up their comrade,” said Zamryga.
Barsik and Zagybluk were the lucky ones.
The number of animals left behind during the non-stop destruction of cities and towns has been staggering. Many refugees have been forced to leave their furry friends behind at the border because of they do not meet the criteria imposed by the European Union that require pets be vaccinated, microchipped and have a rabies test.
Inga Sekada, director of operations at UAnimals, one of Ukraine’s biggest animal rights groups, said they have evacuated more than 10,000 animals since the start of the full-scale invasion, including cats, dogs, tigers, camels, horses, cows, racoons, wolves, donkeys, porcupines, lemurs, sheep and even bees.
“Twice a month, our team of vets travels to the frontline zone and works non-stop, sometimes from 7 a.m. until 10 p.m., treating, vaccinating and neutering all the animals brought to us,” says Inga Sekada, director of operations at the group.
As many as 500 to 600 animals can be treated during a single veterinary mission, she added.
