In the midst of chaos, violence, and uncertainty, most people have left their beloved home country Ukraine to stay in safer places. The invasion from Russia is a lifetime trauma for the Ukrainians, and the world is keeping them in their prayers. However, there is still a light in the darkness, especially for Ukrainian cat lovers.
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More info: Facebook (h/t: thedodo)
The Cat Cafe Lviv, a small sanctuary for 20 furry soldiers, has been still opening in Ukraine. Those who are still staying in the vulnerable homeland appreciate this presence of hope and positivity. The catfe shop started the business in 2015 with several cats and staff. This place has been the must-go haven for the customers to get some scrumptious food and pet some gorgeous felines.
Serhii Oliinyk, the owner of Cat Cafe Lviv, shares how close the bond with his cat cafe is from the beginning: “I have a small team of several close people who have been working with me for several years and have become my closest friends.”
“The cats have also gotten used to these people, who help to take care of them and who play with them when there are few guests because our fluffy residents love people’s attention.” – He continues.
Nothing is more chilling than sitting in the corner with some fluffy buddies and enjoying the hot meal, isn’t it? The Cat Cafe Lviv benefits people’s mental and physical health, bringing optimism and relaxation to them after a hectic day. Clinging on to the slogan, Oliinyk decided to keep the door open even the war is still out there. Why?
“They [the cats] are like family. We realized that we would never leave our country, that this was the only place where we could see ourselves in the future.” – He says.
Knowing that there would be some potentially dangerous situations when the battle is nonstop going, Oliinyk already prepared a secret place for the guests and cats.
“There are three large rooms in our cafe, two of which are located in the basement, so in case of an air raid warning, there is a safe shelter for our guests and cats.” – He exposes.
A lot of people around the world recognize this loving act from The Cat Cafe Lviv’s owner, they have sent donations and words of encouragement to him and the kitties. When you visit their Facebook page, you can only see pawsitivity and goodness are posted. That’s what a family should look like. No matter what happens, they are still standing together.
If you’re a Ukrainian who is reading this article, we hope you stay safe and be strong. If you have a chance, go to The Cat Cafe Lviv to greet these lovely furry companions and their brave hooman dad!
