Lapky

(ukr. "лапки")

Lapky means paws or animal feet in Ukrainian

Our story

Project Lapky was founded when a group of friends from all over the world fell in love with a Ukrainian street dog named Veselka. Read her story here.

We realized that there were millions of dogs, cats and other animals just like Veselka who had been who were suddenly trapped in war zones due to the Russian invasion.

As our hearts collectively broke for these stranded animals, we knew we needed to do something to help them.

Pooling our collective skills, and contacts, we got to work. And 6 months later, Project Lapky was born.

Dog sitting alone among rubble.

Our mission

Project Lapky's mission is to help innocent animals caught in the crossfire of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Together, we can be their voice in this time of crisis. Help us help them.

A cat walks down the street with soldiers in the background.

Donations will go towards:

  • Animal evacuation from war zones

  • Food and bedding for hungry and cold animals

  • Vet care for the sick and injured

  • Supporting Ukrainian animal shelters

Our team

Portrait of Susana Fogel leaning on a brick wall.

When I'm not writing or directing a film or TV show in some far flung location, I'm hanging out with Pluto, the senior dog I rescued. He often accompanies me on work trips, and in Prague last year, Pluto had the privilege of meeting the first Ukrainian dog Project Lapky rescued and rehomed — Veselka. Every animal — and every human — deserves a second chance at a happy life. That's why Project Lapky is so important.

CHIEF CONNECTOR

Susanna Fogel

Howzit! I'm Taryn.

I'm a 15 year social media veteran, mom to 2 kitties and extremely passionate about animal welfare and animal rights causes.

Nothing lights me up more than working with organizations like Project Lapky.

DIRECTOR OF STORYTELLING

Taryn Aronson

Hi! I’m Tasya.

I'm a Ukrainian filmmaker and founder of the animal welfare organization DOG MA.

As an animal lover who recently fled Kyiv due to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, Project Lapky is very personal for me.

CHIEF HEART OFFICER

Tasya Plieshyvtseva

Hi there, I'm Chloe!

I'm a Brand and Web Designer. I believe that fun and color can go hand and hand with being conscious and kind.

I have 2 cats and a dog and animals are my favorite people. Project Lapky combines everything I care about and I'm so proud to be a part of it.

CAPTAIN OF COLOR

Chloe Arielle Foster

Håfa Adai, I'm Megan!

I enjoy creating content that makes a difference/tugs on your heart strings/changes your perspective.

While my allergies have prevented me from caring for a furry friend, I have a big heart for animals and am so happy to be a part of Project Lapky.

DESIGN JEDI

Megan Vitko

Woof! Hi I'm Veselka.

I'm a former street dog turned beloved family member, professional cuddler, champion ball catcher and now Vice President of the most important organization ever.

In my humble opinion at least.

VP OF INSPIRATION

Veselka

A HUGE thank you to the photographers who have kindly donated their photos to this project.

Alina Smutko, Bella Elisichenko, David Tesinsky, Elizabeth Servatynska, Katya Moskalyuk, Natalia Azarkina, Maxim Dondyuk, Slava Ratynski, Tetiana Buialo, Yana Sidash, Yura Palyvoda