In the summer of 2023, Greater Good Charities helped open the doors of Patron Pet Center (PPC) in Kyiv, Ukraine, dedicated to rescuing and rehoming dogs and cats affected by the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
PPC houses animals rescued from the frontlines, adopting out an average of 100 dogs and cats a month in Ukraine and across Europe. Their outreach also goes above and beyond immediate housing and care for animals, as they provide educational events for internally displaced children and art therapy sessions for Ukrainians who have suffered during the war.
Construction has been central to Greater Good Charities’ partnership with Patron Pet Center, strengthening their capacity to safely shelter and care for vulnerable animals from the very beginning.
Early in our collaboration, we supported the completion of secure kennels for dogs, creating structured, safe spaces for animals arriving through rescue operations. These enclosures significantly improved daily care, animal safety and overall welfare standards at the center.
Following the devastating dam collapse and subsequent flooding in 2023, PPC took in pets from affected communities and rescued animals from Kherson. We provided support to ensure these animals received critical veterinary care and resources to stabilize and improve their condition. We also delivered targeted assistance for animal rescue and evacuation efforts as the situation worsened in northeastern Ukraine, enabling PPC to respond quickly and continue lifesaving work under rapidly changing conditions.
In 2024, we further strengthened the center’s infrastructure by funding the construction of a dedicated cat floor. This new space expanded capacity and allowed for the creation of a separate quarantine room for cats infected with Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV), helping protect other cats while raising awareness about the condition. As a result of these improvements, cat adoptions increased by 27% year over year.
In 2025, we provided a generator to help Patron Pet Center withstand ongoing mass blackouts and freezing winter temperatures. Without consistent electricity, animals were sickening due to cold, and staff faced constant stress and disruption.
“Since installing the generator, daily life at the shelter has become noticeably calmer and more stable,” says PPC CEO Kataryna Voloshyna. “The team can work without fear of sudden power cuts, and the animals are no longer getting sick one after another. In fact, during widespread blackouts, staff have shared that the shelter has at times felt more stable and comfortable than their own homes.” Testimony like this underscores just how crucial this support has been to both people and animals.
Benzinchik is one of many animals whose lives have been changed thanks to the team at Patron Pet Center.
He was born in a city affected by conflict. After losing his mother and being injured himself, Benzinchik was rescued by locals and evacuated to PPC for urgent care.
With warmth, safety and medical treatment supported by Greater Good Charities, Benzinchik gradually recovered. Through steady care and patience, he regained his strength and confidence.
Today, Benzinchik lives with a family in Germany and is enjoying a safe and comfortable home!
Terry was also rescued and brought to Patron Pet Center when locals found her chained up, terrified and starving.
As staff worked to help ease her fears, they noticed Terry was unwell. After several examinations, the problem was revealed—an issue with her kidney. An old injury had caused the development of a large tumor, so surgery was performed to remove the damaged organ.
Terry had barely returned from the hospital when a pleasant surprise greeted her—a family had decided to adopt her!
Now, Terry enjoys each day and brings joy to her family, who evacuated from the same region as her.
Patron Pet Center exemplifies the start of a longer-term strategy for the future of animal care in Ukraine. This strategy includes revitalizing the shelter system, consistent adoption/relocation efforts, regular widespread spay-neuter efforts and more.
We at Greater Good Charities will remain steadfast partners of the center, listening to the need and provided targeted support to ensure the health and safety of as many pets—and people advocating for them—as possible. While the war stretches on, good is still at work, and your support remains a beacon of hope for communities in Ukraine.