War Tails: The Untold Story of Pets Abandoned in Ukraine’s War Zone and the Heroes Saving Them

Dan Fine

When war devastates a nation, one impacted population is often forgotten: pets. These loyal companions provide us with joy and comfort, yet during crises, they’re inevitably deprioritized as human survival takes precedence. The moving documentary War Tails sheds light on this overlooked tragedy and the extraordinary individuals fighting to save these animals. 

In February 2022, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine triggered a humanitarian crisis that forced millions to flee their homes. Many families faced the agonizing decision to leave their beloved pets behind. As a result, an estimated one million cats and dogs were abandoned, left to fend for themselves in a war zone. 

This past weekend, I watched War Tails, a documentary that delves into what happens to these animals when their owners are displaced. In less than an hour, it illuminated the untold story of the tireless heroes working to rescue these pets amidst chaos, while also battling to prevent a rabies epidemic that could spread across Europe. 

Narrated through the experiences of Dan Fine—a Vancouver-based businessman turned animal rescuer—and dedicated Ukrainian caregivers, the film paints a vivid picture of compassion amidst destruction. Dan’s journey began with a conversation with a Ukrainian neighbor, a fellow dog walker. Moved by the plight of Ukraine’s abandoned animals, he left his comfortable life in the Pacific Northwest to travel to Ukraine five times in 2022 and 2023. There, he worked alongside veterinarians and volunteers, helping animals in desperate need and combating the spread of rabies, a disease as deadly as it is preventable.

Krystina

 The heart of the story, however, lies with Krystina—a brave and resourceful young woman who abandoned her engineering career to dedicate herself to rescuing animals in the war zone. Her work is relentless and perilous: pulling dogs from filthy drain holes, climbing utility poles to save trapped cats, and navigating bombed-out landscapes while mortar shells explode in the distance.

 In one unforgettable scene, Krystina and her team arrive at a rescue site mere minutes after a rocket destroys a nearby building. She drives dilapidated vehicles into active front lines, enduring bites from frightened animals and injuries from shrapnel in her mission to save lives. Even after contracting rabies herself, Krystina continues her work with unwavering determination.

The film doesn’t shy away from the harsh realities. Shelters are overwhelmed, leaving many spayed and neutered animals to return to the streets. Puppies are the only ones likely to find homes. Yet, despite these challenges, the film isn’t overly graphic or exploitative. Instead, it strikes a delicate balance—revealing enough of the grim truth to evoke empathy without overshadowing the resilience of its human and animal subjects.

 Krystina’s courage is inspiring. Her skills and resolve would have made her an exceptional soldier, but she chose a different battlefield—one where she builds shelter instead of wielding weapons. Her compassion stands as a stark contrast to the violence surrounding her.

Watching War Tails left me deeply moved. As a military member with a profound love for dogs, I couldn’t help but feel conflicted. It’s impossible to ignore the broader implications of war, not just for humans but for the countless voiceless beings caught in its crossfire.

The film raises vital questions: Could this war have been averted? Could NATO or the European Union do more to address the plight of animals in war zones? While I’ll refrain from political commentary, I firmly believe every policymaker funding wars should see this film.

 If the suffering of animals doesn’t stir you, consider the threat of rabies—a disease that causes a slow, agonizing death and poses significant public health risks. Some might argue for culling stray animals, but is that the answer for a nation already enduring unspeakable hardship?

 We are better than this. As a global society, we must not overlook the cost of war on all lives—human and animal alike. War Tails serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the capacity for compassion, even in the darkest times.

 I urge you to watch this documentary and share its message. Together, we can ensure that the silent victims of war are no longer ignored.