Local animal groomers, The Dog Groomery in Paulton, have shared an urgent appeal on social media this week as they get ready to set off on a journey to the Ukranian border to help animals in need.

Kate Geernaert and Clint Sheppard took to Facebook in the hope of raising money and receiving donations from people in the local area. They said: ’Please help – We are travelling to the Ukraine border to help animals in need!

’We, The Dog Groomery (Paulton, Somerset) have decided to take a van full of animal food and aid to the Ukraine/Poland border next week.

’We will go in convoy and in conjunction with Dogbus Transporting Paws, Saving Lives. Registered Charity Number 1196229 - a wonderful charity that rescues dogs and cats internationally.

’As we know, the Ukrainian people and animals are desperate and in need of help. Families are fleeing to safety with their pets and very few belongings and supplies.

’We will leave on Wednesday and meet our convoy at the euro tunnel to drive across Europe. One of our team’s vehicles will bravely cross into the Ukraine taking in supplies from our van.

’Please donate to our own local ‘South West’ fundraiser, we need to fill our van and we need funds to enable us to get there. We are mainly asking for large bags (12-15kg) of dog/cat feed, our van’s food will go directly over the border into shelters. The other vehicles are taking smaller food bags to helps families on the move feed and keep safe their beloved pets. We can’t even imagine how scary this is for these people and pets right now.

’Many of us locally have wondered how we can help, now you can. We need, large bags dry dog/cat food, Medical supplies, leads, carriers, dog coats, blankets etc, we will also take human aid, warms kids clothes, first aid kits etc.

’We will be packing the van this coming Monday, 7th March at The Dog Groomery, Paulton.

’Any help sorting and loading help will of course be appreciated. Thank you to our friends and sponsors at Natural Cornish Pet Shop- I know we can do this with the help of our animal loving, wonderful friends!

’Please share, share, share too!

Paulton Councillor, Grant Johnson said: "If you can, please donate to this fantastic local initiative set up by local business The Dog Groomery, based in Paulton, which will make sure families fleeing Ukraine with their beloved pets can get them the food they need to survive."

"I think all of us have been shocked at the devastation being caused in Ukraine and heartbroken to see families torn from their loved ones. This is one of many aid appeals you will see, but uniquely targeted at supporting the pets that will be comforting owners as they make the most perilous journeys of their life. I will give Kate and Clint all my support with this project, and wish them the best of luck."