A woman was so devastated watching the tragic war in Ukraine unfold, she decided to kickstart a new campaign with the help of man's best friend.
Claire Hagen, 33, from London, launched Dog Protests six months ago, and enlisted her nine-year-old dog, Millie, as CEO of the project.
"After deciding I couldn't stand by and watch any longer, I started researching charities that I could get in touch with to help," Claire told The Mirror.
Claire began posting photos of Millie wearing placards, and asked other pups to join in - sharing signs with "tug not war", "paws off Ukraine" and "make love not war" plastered on them.
Within a matter of months, she'd raised £300 for UNICEF and began looking for another charity to support.
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"I found the charity Network for Animals online, who've recently purchased specialised ambulances to go in and rescue cats and dogs from areas of conflict," Claire said.
"They also have a programme to fund guardians in Ukraine who are trying to feed the animals on the streets and in shelters."
Social media marketer, Claire, has helped Network for Animals raise thousands of pounds towards their vital work saving abandoned animals in conflict.
"The traction has been overwhelming. We've just had one submission from a Ukrainian dog who wanted to get involved," Claire said.
Dog owners around the world have been sending Claire photos and videos of their pets with makeshift cardboard signs.
"I want to rally people together and make a difference. Almost 100 dogs have got involved so far and I want to reach 500," she said.
Claire has been visiting her local parks to recruit people and their pets to join her campaign.
"We are using dogs to spread positive messages for a good cause. I wanted to feel as though I was doing something, and sometimes donating money just isn't enough," Claire said.
"Generally it's been really positive. I have had a few negative comments which I was quite shocked by - one saying they hope Putin poisons my dog."
Claire is focusing on raising money for Ukraine at the moment, but hopes to continue supporting other charities and campaigns in the future.
If you'd like to join in with Claire's mission, you can send a photo of your pet petitioning to @dogprotests on Instagram, or hashtag #dogprotests or #dogwithsign to get noticed.
Do you have a dog story to tell? Contact nia.dalton@reachplc.com.
