We’re joined by Pen Farthing is an ex Royal Marine Commando who founded the charity Nowzad to help dogs and cats in the Helmand province of Afghanistan. We chat about the amazing work the charity achieved in sterilising dogs and cats and the vaccinating programs against rabies. Also in re-uniting soldiers across the world with their beloved dog or cat they’d befriended during their tour of duty. Not only that but offering education at a local level about dogs, and helping women realise their dreams in becoming vet nurses and vets at their centre in Nowzad. In August 2021 when the allied forces pulled out of Afghanistan leaving it under Taliban control, Pen set out on a mission to help bring as many people and animals to the UK . He discusses this landmark moment in history, how he refused to abandon his charity’s staff or the rescue animals. And Operation Ark was born. We chat about how the fallout being branded him as a villain, who valued ‘pets over people’ - when nothing was further from the truth! We talk about his book Operation Ark, the cathartic effect of documenting what actually happened, which we discuss in detail. Along with what Pen is working on now in Ukraine and in Afghanistan.

Order your copy of Operation Ark here and follow on Instagram @nawzadrescue and @penfarthing

Battersea's Instagram

For more about Anna go to annawebb.co.uk

Music and production by Mike Hanson for Pod People Productions

Cover art by Jaijo

Cover photo by Rhian Ap Gruffydd at Gruff Pawtraits

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