Since Russia invaded Ukraine, Dr. Marisa Gennace has closely followed the war’s impact on animals. With so many abandoned and wounded patients, Ukrainian veterinarians face immense obstacles with scarce resources. Still, they remain determined to deliver the best possible care with what little they have. This resilient spirit inspired Dr. Gennace to join them on the front lines.

Earlier this year, she connected with Dr. Valeriia Forkun, a practice owner with clinics in Kyiv and Kharkiv. Dr. Forkun told her about Animal Rescue Kharkiv (ARK), a 24/7 clinic that delivers veterinary care in an active war zone. Backed by her team at Nutley Animal Hospital, Dr. Gennace volunteered to support their efforts.

Before her departure, she prepared for the unexpected. “While I've practiced medicine for ten years, it’s been in a clinical setting at a small animal hospital. I was concerned I wouldn't have the experience to deal with so many traumatic injuries on this scale.”

Determined, she expanded her skillset through extensive research and additional education and training.

Once in Kharkiv, Dr. Gennace encountered many veterinarians who risked their lives for animals in need. “Kharkiv was constantly being shelled and increasingly dangerous,” she shared. “Many people had fled the area, but the veterinary staff stayed for the animals, sheltering in the clinic’s basement for months, sometimes performing procedures illuminated by flashlights while explosions occurred outside.”

While volunteering with ARK, Dr. Gennace treated over 40 animals, many with shrapnel wounds. “The animals had no idea what was happening. Even if they didn’t have physical wounds (which was rare), they were mentally traumatized by their experiences,” she said. “They required a great deal of care and monitoring.”

After her time with ARK, she went to Kyiv to assist Dr. Forkun at the Dovira Veterinary Clinic. While farther from the front lines, the clinic faced medical supply shortages and an increasing number of patients–many of whom were strays brought in by good samaritans.

The limitations required them to be creative with their practice to uphold medical standards.

Back in New Jersey, the Nutley team organized a large delivery of flea and tick preventatives, which benefited over 100 cats and 500 dogs at a Kyiv animal shelter. They also wrote letters expressing their solidarity. “The gesture meant a lot to the Ukrainian veterinarians and care staff. It reminded them that they’re not forgotten and people still care. I was incredibly proud of my team!”

Reflecting on her experience, Dr. Gennace says it made her stronger. “It helped me be a better veterinarian, especially during high-stress days and cases,” she shared. “Everyone around me was just trying to live their lives and perform their normal duties while constant air raid sirens reminded us that the situation was far from normal. It gave me a perspective I didn’t have before, and the one thing I wanted to bring back was awareness about these remarkable veterinarians. They give 100% of themselves, and I will continue to do everything I can to give them hope and remind them they’re not forgotten.”

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