Aid for Kosovo's stray dogs, Swisscoy

Swisscoy soldiers working for animal welfare — support in Kosovo

The deployment of Swisscoy soldiers in Kosovo was characterized not only by humanitarian or security policy tasks, but also by compassion for animals, which are often forgotten in the shadow of conflicts. A moving article describes how Swiss soldiers, stationed in and around Prizren, Rahovec and Malishevo, got involved beyond their military duties — and supported us in working with street dogs.

Time and again, they brought sick or injured dogs, which they discovered during their patrols, to our clinic or dog shelter. Quite a few of these dogs were stabilized and even placed through first aid — some soldiers adopted animals themselves and gave them a new home. Such gestures cannot be taken for granted and show a deep sense of responsibility that goes far beyond professional duties.

They also supported our work financially — often with donations to procure food or medicine, or with small donations in kind to get started. In the initial phase of our work in Kosovo, every form of aid was decisive — not only in material terms, but also as a sign of recognition and cooperation.

This report reminds us how valuable such partnerships between military personnel and animal welfare initiatives can be. Especially in crisis areas where resources are scarce and needs are great, every sign of compassion helps — not only the animals, but also the population, which recognizes that compassion (and “co-animality”) has no limits.

We would like to thank all Swisscoy soldiers from the bottom of our hearts for our animals — then and now.

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