Some of the animals will be reunited with their owners while others will be put up for adoption
Hundreds of animals stranded in Afghanistan arrived in Vancouver on Tuesday night, after more than six months of rescue efforts by the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA).
A total of 158 dogs and 146 cats touched down at Vancouver International Airport (YVR) aboard a specially converted Russian Ilyushin 76-TD aircraft after stops in Turkey and Iceland.
SPCA International said partners in Kabul reached out to them regarding the pets when U.S. forces withdrew from Afghanistan.
The groups hoped to evacuate the animals to North America at the time of the withdrawal, but the volatile situation combined with logistical issues resulted in the delay.
“These animals have been on the plane for quite some time,” Lori Kalef, director of programs for SPCA International, said prior their arrival. “We had to reroute at the last minute due to the conflict going on in Russia.”
From YVR, the animals will be transferred to a specially constructed 1,600-square metre facility.
Kalef said about 66 of the animals will be reunited with their owners, while another two dozen will stay with the SPCA until their owners are able to retrieve them.
The others will be put up for adoption across North America.
Anyone interested in adopting one of the animals can visit the SPCA International website. Applications will be handled by SPCA International and the B.C.-based RainCoast Dog Rescue Society.
Treacherous rescue mission
In a statement, the SPCA said numerous pets were left behind in shelters when their owners fled the country following the Taliban takeover.
A local charity, Kabul Small Animal Rescue, had saved more than 70 dogs from Kabul International Airport and rescued dozens of other animals abandoned by owners when they were forced to flee.
“Pawsome Achievement: Service Dog Receives Honorary Diploma for Exceptional Dedication at Owner’s Graduation”
Brittany Hawley’s Incredible Adventure with Her Faithful Sidekick, Griffin 🐕
Let me introduce you to Brittany Hawley, a 25-year-old from North Carolina who has faced tremendous challenges due to a chronic neurological disease that confined her to a wheelchair when she was still in her teens. However, Brittany’s life changed for the better when she applied for a service dog to help her with her daily routines. That’s when she met Griffin, a golden retriever who would become her constant companion. This remarkable duo met through a special program called ‘paws4prison.’ This program trains inmates in West Virginia prisons to train highly skilled assistance dogs. When Brittany and Griffin first met, several dogs were presented to her, but Griffin stood out. Unlike some dogs that were wary of her wheelchair, Griffin jumped straight into Brittany’s lap and showed her affection.
Recently, Brittany accomplished an important goal by completing her master’s degree in occupational therapy from Clarkson University. This was a momentous occasion not only for her but also for her loyal companion, Griffin. Throughout Brittany’s years of study, Griffin played a crucial role in her life, attending classes with her, retrieving her phone, and actively participating in her community activities, social groups, and research projects. Griffin even supported her during her internship at Fort Bragg.
When the four-year-old golden retriever received his honorary diploma, it was a recognition of his “extraordinary effort, steadfast commitment, and diligent dedication to the well-being and student success” that contributed to Brittany’s achievements. Brittany proudly said, “I advocated for Griffin’s graduation from day one. He did everything I did.”
Brittany and Griffin proved to be an invaluable team for soldiers grappling with physical limitations and psycho-social issues. Griffin’s presence was so significant during therapy sessions that patients often referred to him as a co-therapist alongside Brittany. On a daily basis, Griffin helps Brittany with various physical tasks such as opening doors, turning on lights, and retrieving objects indicated by a laser pointer. However, what Brittany values the most about Griffin is his ability to comfort her during times of anxiety and depression, which has helped her manage the constant pain that she experiences. Brittany’s story demonstrates the remarkable impact that service dogs like Griffin can have, thanks to their highly specialized training that equips them to provide assistance and emotional support to individuals with disabilities, mental health conditions, and other qualifying circumstances.
Brittany’s experience with her furry friend, Griffin, is a remarkable testament to the indomitable connection that exists between people and their canine pals. This bond effortlessly overcomes obstacles and acknowledges the influence of willpower and affection. 🌟🐕
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