In the city of Lviv, western Ukraine, a former soldier named Vasyl Velychko has found a new mission—caring for dogs at a local animal shelter. After losing his arm in combat, Velychko now dedicates his days to walking, feeding, and nurturing up to 60 dogs, transforming what could have been a life-defining injury into a source of strength and purpose. His story, reported by RFE/RL’s Ukrainian Service, is a powerful example of post-war rehabilitation and the healing bond between humans and animals. For those searching for stories about Ukrainian veterans, animal therapy, or resilience after amputation, Velychko’s journey offers a deeply moving perspective.
Velychko’s path to the Lviv Animal Shelter began after a life-altering injury. Having served in the Ukrainian military from 2017 to 2020, he re-enlisted following Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022. Just months later, during a counteroffensive in the Kharkiv region, a shot from an anti-tank grenade launcher cost him his arm. After undergoing rehabilitation, he briefly worked as a courier before seeing an advertisement for a position at the shelter. He decided to give it a try—and never looked back.
“She likes biting,” he joked, using his remaining hand to fend off Ira, an energetic German shepherd. Despite the physical challenges, Velychko’s commitment to the dogs is unwavering. He works every day without taking time off and has developed techniques to manage his tasks independently. For instance, he uses a belt connected to the leash, allowing him to walk the dogs while keeping his hand free. This innovation ensures the dogs remain safe even when he needs to clean up after them or perform other tasks.
“Since I have an upper-limb amputation, it’s uncomfortable sometimes,” he explained. “With the belt, I can just let go, and I know the dog won’t run away, get hit by a car, or escape.”
What stands out most is not just Velychko’s physical determination, but the emotional connection he has formed with the animals. “I can’t imagine myself without the dogs,” he said. “How could anyone betray them, abandon them? They trust you, they love you.” His words reflect a profound empathy that seems to fuel his daily efforts. The dogs, many of whom may have been abandoned or traumatized themselves, appear to offer him a sense of companionship and consistency that is as therapeutic as it is meaningful.
Kostyantyn Pavlenko, a dog specialist at the shelter, noted that Velychko’s disability has not held him back. “Physically, of course, it is difficult for someone without one arm,” Pavlenko said. “But he never asks for help.” He recalled a moment on the training ground when he offered assistance. “He said, ‘No, no, I’ll do it myself.’ He positions himself with his legs, clamps with his legs, clips the carabiner, and manages it all on his own.”
This kind of self-sufficiency is not just impressive—it’s inspirational. Velychko’s example challenges assumptions about what people with disabilities can achieve, especially in physically demanding environments. His story also highlights the role of animal care in emotional recovery. For many veterans, the transition to civilian life can be isolating. Velychko emphasizes the importance of staying active and connected. “Some people lose spirit, but they need support and someone to set an example,” he said. “And for those who just stay home, I say: Find some work, be around people, communicate.”
I found this detail striking: Velychko doesn’t take any days off. His dedication is not driven by obligation but by a genuine love for the animals. It’s a reminder that purpose can be rediscovered in the most unexpected places. The shelter, far from being just a workplace, has become a sanctuary—for both the dogs and the man who cares for them.
In the broader context of Ukraine’s ongoing conflict, stories like Velychko’s offer a glimpse into the personal battles being fought far from the front lines. Tens of thousands of Ukrainians have undergone amputations due to war injuries. Each of them faces a unique journey toward healing and reintegration. For Velychko, that journey has been shaped by the wagging tails and trusting eyes of shelter dogs who, in their own way, are also survivors.
His experience underscores the therapeutic potential of animal companionship, particularly for those recovering from trauma. It also raises awareness about the importance of inclusive employment opportunities for veterans and people with disabilities. The Lviv Animal Shelter, by embracing Velychko’s abilities rather than focusing on his limitations, has not only gained a dedicated worker but also helped shape a compelling narrative of resilience and hope.
As Ukraine continues to grapple with the consequences of war, stories like this remind us of the enduring human capacity for adaptation and compassion. Whether through the quiet companionship of a dog or the unwavering spirit of a veteran, healing often begins with connection.
