Krystina, owner of Under the Sun Shelter in Ukraine, continues to rescue animals in need. Many are abandoned in war zones found cowering in destroyed buildings, along the road, or tied outside. 

She refuses to walk away from an animal in need and will do whatever it takes to give them a better life. She shared a story about a flea-ridden, matted little dog who was found living outside on a chain after her previous owner passed away. 

A family took in the little dog but did not include her as part of the family by caring for her or letting her indoors. Krystina recalls, "Standing in front of me was a tiny, filthy, terribly neglected little dog. Her fur was completely matted, greasy, and covered in mud, and underneath it were hundreds of fleas." 

When Krystina offered to take the dog and find her a better home the people then claimed she was their children's dog. Our hero went on to explain that dogs are not children's toys to be played with on occasion and left outside in the cold without proper care. 

She stood her ground and rescued the neglected dog. 

The sweet yet frightened dog finally received the care, bath, and grooming she needed, thanks to your support. That was just the beginning.

Once she shed the fleas and all signs of neglect, she quickly won the heart of a family in Paris. She made the long journey to her new home and is living her best life. 

She spends all day with a loving family and sleeps in warm bed at night. This is the life that all dogs should have. 

Krystina said, "When I look at her, I am reminded once again that sometimes, all it takes is refusing to walk away to change someone’s entire world." 

This is why she is our hero. She goes above and beyond to save animals and find each one a loving home. Help her continue with her mission by feeding and caring for hundreds of dogs at Under the Sun who are waiting for a family of their own.