Sponsor a Dog in Ukraine for just 58p a week!

The SPA-SOS shelter is different to western shelters, as most dogs are free to roam around. Those who are in large runs (for safety) are joined by at least two other dogs, so no dog is left to be lonely.

All dogs are free to play and enjoy themselves in a social environment, building strong bonds with fellow canine friends

Many of the dogs arrive at the shelter very wary and nervous having experienced abuse and neglect from humans.

The staff at the SPA-SOS are incredibly patient with the dogs and work hard to help them learn to trust people & the other dogs in the shelter, so they can enjoy themselves & maybe even find a new home.

Whilst most people in Kyiv only want pedigree breeds, some kind-hearted souls do come to the shelter to rehome a stray dog for a small donation.

When a dog goes to a new home, Tamara pays the family a surprise visit to make sure they are caring for the dog properly, and they have registered with a good local vet.

Throughout 2009, six teams of voluntary vets and vet nurses from the Worldwide Veterinary Service visited the SPA-SOS to help neuter the stray animals, and treat sick or injured animals in the shelter.

The volunteers also trained local vets how to treat and operate using state-of-the-art and efficient techniques.