Following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskyy issued a call for foreign volunteers to assist in the conflict. Bruce Perry, a resident of Savona, B.C., answered the call based on his military background, first aid training, retirement status, lack of dependents, and Ukrainian heritage.
Despite being ineligible for military service after interviews, Perry traveled to Ukraine in May 2022 seeking volunteer opportunities. Initially supporting military efforts by delivering essential supplies to the frontlines, he later had to depart the country after 90 days as a foreign visitor, with a three-month restriction on re-entry.
Returning to Savona, Perry sought out alternative ways to contribute to Ukrainian causes and discovered Animal Rescue Kharkiv (ARK), a volunteer-run animal shelter that had expanded into a rescue organization following Russia’s invasion. The ARK website reports over 29,000 rescued animals since the conflict began.
Transitioning to a caregiver role at the ARK veterinary clinic in January 2023, Perry’s duties included nurturing orphaned puppies and kittens whose mothers had been lost or injured due to the war. Describing the clinic’s conditions as distressing, Perry emphasized the heartbreaking injuries and traumas suffered by the rescued animals.
Challenging yet Fulfilling
Perry acknowledged the emotional toll of witnessing the animals’ suffering but found purpose and satisfaction in his work at the ARK clinic. As he nears 77 years old, Perry expressed gratitude for the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of helpless creatures in need of human intervention.
Despite ongoing violence in Ukraine, Perry remains committed to his role at ARK, recognizing the significance of his presence during challenging times such as power outages and communication disruptions. He plans to continue supporting the animal rescue efforts for as long as he is physically capable.