A Ukrainian woman named Alisa has captured global attention for her extraordinary act of devotion during the ongoing war in Ukraine. As violence intensified in Kyiv and civilians were forced to flee for safety, Alisa faced an agonizing journey out of the city — one made even more difficult by her determination to protect her elderly dog at all costs.

According to My Modern Met, Alisa struggled to evacuate Kyiv alongside her family amid chaos, overcrowded transport, and constant fear. When conventional means of escape became impossible, she made a remarkable decision: rather than abandon her aging pet, she carried the dog on her shoulder for seventeen kilometers — nearly ten miles. The journey was physically exhausting, especially given the stress of war, limited resources, and the uncertainty surrounding her safety. Yet, despite the immense hardship, Alisa refused to leave her loyal companion behind.

Reports from The Mirror reveal that Alisa later shared her experience online, explaining that the thought of abandoning her dog was unimaginable. She described her pet not as an animal, but as a family member who had been by her side for years. In her words, survival meant nothing if it required sacrificing compassion. Her story quickly spread across social media platforms, drawing admiration from people around the world who were deeply moved by her courage and humanity.

Alisa’s actions came to symbolize the powerful bond between humans and animals during times of crisis. As noted by Reuters and BBC News, millions of Ukrainians were displaced during the conflict, many forced to make heartbreaking choices about what — and who — they could bring with them. Numerous reports documented people risking their lives to rescue pets, livestock, and even stray animals, underscoring how deeply ingrained empathy remains even in the darkest moments of war.

Animal welfare organizations such as Humane Society International and PETA have highlighted stories like Alisa’s as reminders that compassion does not disappear in wartime. On the contrary, such acts often shine brightest amid destruction. Experts cited by The Guardian suggest that caring for animals during crises can provide emotional stability and a sense of purpose for displaced individuals, helping them cope with trauma and loss.

Alisa’s journey, though physically demanding and emotionally overwhelming, resonated far beyond Ukraine’s borders. Her determination served as a quiet yet powerful statement: even in the face of violence and displacement, humanity endures. In a war defined by destruction, her story stands as a testament to love, loyalty, and moral courage — proof that small acts of kindness can become symbols of hope for the world.

Sources: My Modern Met; The Mirror; BBC News; Reuters; The Guardian; Humane Society International.