Rescue Operation for Bears from Ukraine: Animal Transport Required Multi-Stage and Complex Customs Procedures

Thanks to a precisely executed customs clearance at the Korczowa border crossing, two brown bears were safely transported from Ukraine to the Weidefeld animal protection center in Germany.

“It was one of the most complex customs procedures we have ever handled. Several times we were just one step away from the entire operation failing,” says Joanna Porath, owner of the customs agency AC Porath.

The transport of the bears required multi-stage customs procedures, including transit through Poland. “The process began in Ukraine, where the export formalities were completed. We then carried out the transit from Korczowa to the customs office of destination,” explains Joanna Porath.

After the Ukrainian export declaration was closed, a veterinary declaration at the EU border had to be made first. Without the CHEDD health document, the import of animals would not have been possible at all. Once the transit declaration was opened in Korczowa, the bears were transported to Germany, where the import took place.

“Initially, the main problem was determining which customs office would carry out the clearance. The customs procedures were finally completed in the Netherlands, where the temporary export procedure was officially closed,” adds Joanna Porath.

A Dramatic Operation

Crossing the border posed a huge logistical challenge, as it involved bringing strictly protected animals from a third country into the EU. The rescue operation — ten months in preparation — was several times at risk of failure.
The critical moment came at the border when it turned out that no veterinarian was on duty that night. “Had the entry failed, all the permits would have expired, and the next opportunity to carry out the rescue would not have come until spring,” recalls Joanna Porath.

The customs clearance itself in Korczowa took about six hours, as all documents were checked in the smallest detail. During this time, the bears were given snacks — apples, carrots, and eggs — which helped them stay calm during the long nighttime procedure.

Documents Required for Clearance Included:

• Authorizations
• Veterinary certificates
• CITES permits (for export and import)
• Donation documents
• CHED notifications
• Animal passports
• Vaccination certificates

The Story of the Rescued Animals

The bears from the Ukrainian sanctuary were transported to the Weidefeld center in Germany by the Dutch specialist company Crossborder Animal Services B.V., covering a distance of nearly 1,300 kilometers. Their story is tragic. Luba was taken away from her mother and forced to perform in circuses. Myhasyk was used for taking photos with tourists until he was deemed too dangerous and locked in a cramped steel cage. Both animals show symptoms typical of those used in circus performances and kept in confined spaces.

“We are happy that the customs clearance went smoothly and that the bears are now safe in their new home,” concludes Joanna Porath.