GG PDP Content
Animals in War: Spotlight on Pets Suffering Amid Ukraine Conflict
Guest Contributor
At this year’s Tribeca Festival in New York, a powerful new film titled Animals in War will make its debut, drawing attention to a heartbreaking yet often overlooked consequence of armed conflict: the suffering of animals. Supported by Save Pets of Ukraine — a humanitarian initiative launched by Ukrainian pet food manufacturer Kormotech — the film explores how war disrupts not only human lives but also those of companion and wild animals. As global audiences prepare to witness this unique cinematic project, the film’s premiere also marks a moment of reflection on the broader impact of war on the environment and animal welfare.
Animals in War is an anthology composed of seven short films, most of them rooted in true stories. It’s a collaboration between Ukrainian and German filmmakers, with contributions from around 500 creatives worldwide. The opening segment is directed by Myroslav Slaboshpytskyi, best known for his work on The Tribe. The soundtrack features music by Imagine Dragons, adding an emotional layer to the already poignant narrative. Actor Sean Penn is expected to attend the premiere, bringing additional visibility to the project.
Producer Oleg Kokhan framed the film’s message in stark terms: “The way a nation treats animals is a clear marker of its level of civilization.” He emphasized that the collaboration with Save Pets of Ukraine and Kormotech serves as an example of how socially responsible businesses and the arts can join forces to highlight urgent humanitarian themes. This partnership underscores a shared commitment to raising awareness about animals affected by the war in Ukraine.
Save Pets of Ukraine was founded in 2022 and operates through the U-Hearts Foundation. The organization provides critical resources to shelters and volunteers working in war-affected areas. In 2023 alone, more than 26,000 dogs and 20,000 cats received care through its programs, and that number continues to grow. The demand for support has surged since the onset of the conflict, prompting an expansion of shelter and volunteer capacity by as much as 100% in frontline regions, according to a study conducted by Kormotech and Save Pets of Ukraine.
Responding to these needs, Save Pets of Ukraine has delivered 1,900 tons of pet food, arranged over 21,000 vaccinations, and facilitated the rehoming of more than 2,000 displaced animals. These efforts reflect a comprehensive approach to animal welfare during crisis, offering both immediate aid and long-term support. I found this level of coordination and care particularly striking, especially given the logistical challenges posed by ongoing conflict.
Kormotech’s involvement in the film is a natural extension of its broader mission. CEO and co-founder Rostyslav Vovk explained that Animals in War aligns with the company’s goal of promoting a responsible attitude toward animals. “For us, supporting the creation of Animals in War is a natural extension of our mission as a pet food producer: to foster a responsible attitude toward animals and to make their lives better,” he said. This statement captures the ethos behind the company’s work, not just as a business but as an advocate for animal well-being.
To coincide with the film’s release, Save Pets of Ukraine is launching a fundraising campaign titled “We save animals — animals save us.” A QR code linking to the donation page will appear during the film’s credits, inviting viewers to take action. This initiative reflects the film’s deeper purpose: not only to inform but also to inspire tangible support for animals affected by war.
Founded in 2003, Kormotech produces pet food under brands like Optimeal, Club 4 Paws, and Miau!, and operates manufacturing facilities in Ukraine and the European Union. The company distributes its products to 51 countries and reported $162.7 million in revenue in 2024. These figures underscore the company’s global reach, but its involvement in Animals in War highlights another dimension: a commitment to ethical responsibility and humanitarian engagement.
By spotlighting the experiences of animals during wartime, Animals in War challenges viewers to consider the broader consequences of conflict. It’s a sobering reminder that the toll of war extends far beyond human casualties, affecting every living being caught in its path. Through the combined efforts of filmmakers, artists, and humanitarian organizations like Save Pets of Ukraine, this film gives voice to those who cannot speak for themselves — and calls on all of us to listen.