As the bitter Ukrainian winter approaches, over 300 stray dogs—descendants of those left behind after the Chornobyl nuclear disaster—are about to receive critical help.
These animals, already survivors of radiation exposure and the ongoing Ukraine-Russia war, will soon be sheltered from the harsh elements, thanks to an inspiring partnership between Farm & Yard, the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals International (SPCAI), and the Clean Futures Fund (CFF).
A Desperate Need for Shelter
For years, these dogs have lived in and around the Chornobyl Nuclear Power Plant (ChNPP), struggling to survive in the forests of the radioactive Exclusion Zone. With the war further reducing their access to shelter and food, their already fragile existence has become increasingly dangerous. The winters in Ukraine are notoriously brutal, and without adequate protection, these dogs face a grim future.
The situation is so dire that some of the dogs have sought shelter within the remains of the nuclear power plant itself—a temporary fix at best. The crumbling infrastructure is not suitable for long-term refuge, and with fewer plant workers on-site, the dogs’ access to food is dwindling.
A Lifeline from Farm & Yard
To address this crisis, Farm & Yard is stepping in with a generous donation of 20 Cozy Cube™ insulated dog houses. These extra-large, weather-resistant shelters will provide immediate protection for the dogs, offering them a safe place to rest away from the biting cold. These shelters, placed in secure locations by CFF, are the first step in creating safer environments for these resilient animals.
“The dogs of Chornobyl have faced an unrelenting fight for survival, abandoned in the wake of the nuclear disaster and struggling through a war-torn region,” said Lori Kalef, Director of Programs at SPCAI. “These shelters are more than just protection from the freezing temperatures—they offer a lifeline, giving these animals a safe place to rest and feel secure. While it’s a small step, it’s a powerful way to bring hope to these resilient dogs.”
The Dogs’ Fight for Survival
Usually we attribute such stories of resilience and survival to human triumphs over the elements or wars, but the story of the Chornobyl dogs is one of unbelievable perseverance against the odds. These animals are the descendants of pets abandoned during the evacuation following the 1986 nuclear disaster. For decades, they relied on plant workers for scraps of food and makeshift shelter. Now, the war has driven many of the dogs deeper into the forests, where they face new threats like starvation, harsh weather, and encounters with wild predators.
“The situation is heartbreaking,” said Dr. Jennifer Betz, Veterinary Medical Director at CFF. “We’re not just talking about animals surviving in the wilderness; we’re talking about highly vulnerable dogs who have been exposed to radiation and trauma, and now they’re enduring conflict and severe weather.”
A Collaborative Effort to Save Lives
The partnership between Farm & Yard, SPCAI, and CFF is an incredible example of how collective action can make a difference. CFF has also secured an agreement with the Chornobyl Nuclear Power Plant to relocate the dogs to safer areas within the Exclusion Zone, where they will receive shelter, food, and medical attention.
“These dogs have endured unimaginable hardships, and we believe it is our duty to step up and ensure they have a chance at survival,” said Adam Fowler, CEO and Co-founder of Farm & Yard. “We’re honored to support this initiative by working with SPCA International and CFF to provide CozyCube shelters to the dogs of Chornobyl.”
Their Cozy Cubes are built to withstand the harshest weather and provide a comfortable, safe place for animals in extreme conditions.
A Mission of Compassion
SPCA International has played a key role in this project, lending its expertise in animal care and rescue. “The plight of these dogs is one that we cannot ignore,” said Lori Kalef, Director of Programs at SPCAI “They represent the impact of human disaster on the most innocent lives. Our goal is to help them survive the winter and, hopefully, find paths to rehabilitation and care.”
As the Ukraine-Russia conflict continues, the urgency to help these dogs—and animals around the world—grows. Farm & Yard, SPCAI, and CFF are determined to make a lasting difference in their lives, providing not just immediate relief but also a path toward a more hopeful future.
About the Organizations
Farm & Yard
Farm & Yard is a leader in animal care products, specializing in durable, weather-resistant shelters like the Cozy Cube. Their products are designed to protect animals in the harshest conditions. Their Partner Program actively supports efforts to combat the global animal welfare and pet adoption crisis by creating and implementing essential programs and helping to increase adoption rates, and their goal is to make a lasting impact on the lives of animals worldwide.
SPCA International
SPCA International is dedicated to advancing animal welfare worldwide. Through rescue, outreach, and education programs, SPCAI works to protect animals in crisis and support grassroots activists.
Clean Futures Fund (CFF)
CFF is a non-profit that raises awareness and provides aid to communities affected by industrial accidents. Since 2016, CFF has been working in the Chornobyl Exclusion Zone, providing veterinary care and shelter to the region’s feral dogs and aims to give these animals a better future.
How to Help
If you’re interested in helping these efforts, all donations are welcome and greatly appreciated.
For more information on how to get involved or to donate, please visit the Clean Futures Fund or SPCAI or the Farm & Yard websites.
Photos provided to Dogster with permission by Patrick Pharris of Farm & Yard
