Seven shipments of dog and cat food are heading to Ukraine, as part of a weekly aid package shipped from Alberta's capital.

Organizer and former Deputy Premier Thomas Lukaszuk said, "It is very important."

In times of war, we may not think about it, but we thought about delivering this aid to pets." He and former Premier Ed Stelmach are also part of a group sending a donation container to the war zone every week.

Lukaszuk said a large shipment of cat food will also be sent. Funds were collected from local veterinarians and donors.

Lukaszuk added, "We hope there will be more because I believe the need is very urgent." Medicines for pets are also being collected and shipped.

The group has already sent more than 35 tons of aid to Ukraine, including medical equipment and first aid, stretchers, thermal blankets, sleeping bags, and wheelchairs.