When news of the Russian invasion of the Ukraine reached Japan, ARK immediately began discussions of how we could help people fleeing the warzone with their animals. We started fundraising for local groups and contacted the Ukraine Embassy. We found what we believe to be the best way to help.

Ordinarily, the period an animal spends in quarantine in Japan can be reduced by vaccinating against rabies and completing the appropriate procedures in one’s own country. This is not an op- tion for emergency evacuees. Most animals from the Ukraine are expected to spend the full term – 180 days – in quarantine. Many people saw the Pomeranian, Ray, on TV and learned that his own- er would be faced with fees she would struggle to pay.

Most evacuees in need of help from ARK asked us to pay these fees. They have no family in Japan and somestruggled to find pet- friendly housing. Most of the housing provided by the government for evacuees did not allow pets. ARK was able to help not only by paying quarantine fees for several evacuees, but also by providing temporary foster care for the beloved cat of one.

ARK has offered financial and other support to 5 families over the last year. We have paid quarantine fees, provided temporary fos- ter care and transported animals to their next destinations. Most of these animals served the full quarantine term. We received 1.19 million yen in contributions and have spent the entire amount in support. We would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone for their support.

Sadly, the war shows no sign of waning, despite a year having passed since its commencement. ARK will continue to support evacuees in need.