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.
Unyielding Devotion: Magnus Stands by His Comatose Owner, a Tale Overflowing with Heartfelt Love
“Magnus: The Embodiment of Unconditional Loyalty and Comfort
Meet Magnus, a faithful canine companion who demonstrated unwavering loyalty when his owner, Brian Benson, faced a deep coma. For three consecutive days, Magnus refused to leave Benson’s side, leaving both doctors and onlookers deeply moved by this extraordinary display of devotion.
The loyalty of dogs is a well-known treasure, and we often turn to them for their steadfast dedication and unwavering affection. Magnus, however, takes this loyalty to a whole new level.
Brian Benson’s journey began with respiratory distress, leading to a three-night hospital stay as doctors diligently worked to diagnose his condition. Hospital stays can be incredibly trying, especially when awaiting potentially distressing news. But throughout this challenging period, Magnus remained an unwavering presence, bringing solace to Benson and providing support to his young daughters. Even though family visitation hours were limited, Magnus was granted permission to remain by Benson’s side throughout.
Magnus, a trained service dog, is a six-year-old yellow Labrador Retriever with a unique ability to care for his human companion. Together, Benson and Magnus form a dedicated team, often visiting terminally ill patients and grieving families to offer comfort and solace.
In this instance, Magnus took on the role of a comforting presence for Brian Benson. Initially adopted as a beloved family pet, his innate capacity to care for those around him prompted Benson and his family to have Magnus trained as a therapy dog.
Benson has expressed overwhelming gratitude for Magnus’ unwavering companionship during his hospital stay. It was during this challenging time that Benson received the diagnosis of cardiomyopathy, indicating a diminished functioning of his heart.
Benson shared his heartwarming story on social media, accompanied by touching videos that showcase Magnus sleeping beside him and providing comfort to his daughters during these trying circumstances.
The bond between Magnus and Benson serves as a powerful testament to the incredible loyalty and boundless love that dogs wholeheartedly offer. They remind us that in our darkest moments, our furry friends can be a beacon of light and unwavering support.
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