Lviv Municipal Enterprise “Lev” Becomes a Citywide Center for Comprehensive Animal Care

The transformation of Lviv Municipal Enterprise Lev ( LME Lev) began in July 2024, when Yulianna Savruk took over as director. With funding from the city and charitable partners, the veterinary clinic was renovated and equipped with state-of-the-art technology.

LME Lev has upgraded its dental room, launched a functional blood bank, added an ultrasound machine, and secured a steady supply of medications. What once served primarily as a sterilization facility for stray animals is now evolving into a citywide hub for full-spectrum care — supporting both pets and their families.

“Lviv Municipal Enterprise Lev is changing because we believe in — and promote — humane treatment of animals,” said Andriy Moskalenko, First Deputy Mayor of Lviv. “This is no longer just a sterilization point. The city has a new vision: we want to develop a program for visiting dogs who bring joy and support to people. We've already started canine therapy sessions at Unbroken with veterans. It’s a modern and meaningful initiative that will make our city kinder and more compassionate. We’re also grateful to Kormotech for their ongoing support across various projects.”

“I’ve led LME Lev since July 1, 2024, and the transformation is still underway,” said Director of LME Yulianna Savruk. “It’s taken longer than expected, but the scope is ambitious. We're turning this municipal facility into a modern shelter and full-service veterinary clinic.”

Infrastructure improvements include a comfortable waiting area with a coffee machine and an incoming echo-diagnosis sensor for the new ultrasound machine. The clinic now also offers dental care — including ultrasonic cleanings, polishing, dental X-rays, and tooth extractions when needed.

Laboratory equipment has been upgraded to support biochemical and general blood analysis. Improvements also cover the infectious disease unit and surgery department, which now has a monitor to enhance visualizations during operations.

Kormotech — a Ukrainian family-owned pet food company — supports Lviv Municipal Enterprise Lev with regular food donations and project funding. This includes contributions for essential tools and diagnostic equipment, helping the center save more lives.

As of September, LME Lev is home to 42 dogs and 20 cats. Over the course of a year, the center cares for about 400 dogs and 500 cats — most are strays from Lviv, though some come from surrounding villages. Animals are treated, vaccinated, sterilized, socialized if needed, and matched with loving homes.

The average stay is 21 to 30 days, though some dogs remain for up to a year due to behavioral issues. These long-term residents have now been fully socialized and are ready for adoption.

“We believe in supporting those who take daily responsibility for the lives of stray animals,” said Iryna Lozova, Senior CSR Manager at Kormotech. “We resumed our partnership with Lviv Municipal Enterprise Lev in September 2024 and have since donated over four tonnes of pet food. This isn’t one-time aid — it’s an ongoing commitment and part of our social responsibility. We believe long-term cooperation between business and public institutions can reshape how animals are treated in Ukraine.”

Currently, Lviv Municipal Enterprise Lev employs 37 people — from finance and procurement staff to call center and adoption specialists. There’s also a dog handler focused on socialization and a dedicated team of caregivers, affectionately called the animals’ “temporary pet parents.”

The veterinary team includes seven doctors and three technicians. They handle complete diagnostics and provide treatment on-site.

Yulianna shared that her team is now selecting dogs with the right temperament for therapy work. These specially trained dogs will help in the psychological rehabilitation of both civilians and veterans affected by the war.