285 cats and dogs evacuated from Afghanistan arrive in Canada to find their homes

Over 200 animals rescued in Afghanistan have now found their homes, thanks to an inspiring international rescue operation.

After US troops evacuated from the middle east country last year, many animals got left behind amidst the unrest. But in the months since, a group of animal organizations has been organizing an effort to transport these cats and dogs to Vancouver, Canada.

The effort is led by SPCA International, along with Kabul Small Animal Rescue, War Paws, Marley’s Mutt’s, RainCoast Dog Rescue Society, and Thank DOG I Am Out Rescue Society, according to a press release by SPCAI.

According to Newsweek, Kabul Small Animal Rescue took in 130 cats and dogs at the time of the evacuation, some street pets and some who were left behind by their owners.

They teamed up with SPCAI to evacuate the animals, but hit a setback when the pets were not allowed on the plane.

But after months of planning, the groups finally enacted a rescue operation on February 1, dubbed “Mission Possible” by the organizers.

“Our plane has been on the ground in Ankara since about 11pm Kabul time last night and will leave there shortly,” Kabul Small Animal Rescue wrote on January 31, saying that vets from Marley’s Mutts Dog Rescue were caring for the dogs and they would soon begin their journey to Canada, stopping in Iceland and the UK along the way.

“It’s a long trip, but with the best of care, and they’ll get even more snuggles when they reach Canada and go to the receiving rescues,” they wrote. “We are so relieved that they finally made it out.”

After the long journey, the cats and dogs have finally arrived at their destination safe and sound — the culimination of a months-long humanitarian effort and the beginning of a new life for these 285 cats and dogs.

“After doing everything in our power to make this evacuation a reality, we are thrilled to report that the animals have arrived safely in Vancouver, Canada, and are enjoying some well-deserved rest after their long journey,” Lori Kalef, Director of Programs at SPCA International, said in a statement to Newsweek.

“We believe deeply in creating second chances for animals and couldn’t be happier for the hundreds of dogs and cats who will now have theirs,” said Zach Skow, the founder of Marley’s Mutts, according to People.

The cats and dogs are now being held at a shelter, but will either be reunited with their families or find forever homes.

“We are so grateful to our many partners for their tireless work on this rescue mission and are excited to report that the animals in our care are happy, healthy, and ready to find their forever homes or be reunited with their families, Kalef said.