IRISH PREMIERE

Amid violence and war, Ukrainian citizens are coming together to rescue animals that have been left behind by those forced to flee the country following Russia’s full-scale invasion. From cats and dogs in abandoned buildings to lions and tigers in the nation’s zoos, to famous pets such as Patron the Jack Russell Terrier, who was awarded the Order of Courage by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy for his work locating unexploded ordnance, extraordinary rescue efforts are underway. As the founder of a Ukrainian animal shelter says, ‘save animals to stay human’.

Followed by a Q&A with Director Anton Ptushkin, hosted by Rick O’Shea.

Notes by David O’Mahony

Screening as part of IFI Documentary Festival 2024.