Pina is an actress based in Vanadzor, where she works at the local theater. Her mother is from Ukraine, and her father is Armenian, originally from Vanadzor. Alongside her artistic career, Pina has dedicated more than a decade to caring for animals, primarily those who have suffered severe injuries and require intensive care. Veterinary resources in Vanadzor are extremely limited, with only one or two practitioners in the area, none of whom are equipped to perform surgeries. For more complex procedures, animals must be taken to Yerevan, approximately two hours away. During the time we spoke, Pina was caring for about 15 dogs and 30 cats, both inside and outside her home.

Although Pina has had opportunities to leave Armenia, she chooses to stay out of both responsibility and love for the animals she supports. With assistance from friends in the United States, she has facilitated international adoptions, though this has become significantly more difficult since the Covid-19 pandemic. She lives with her mother and brother, managing the care of the animals largely on her own. Despite regularly seeking help, she has struggled to find local volunteers.

Pina hopes to establish outdoor shelters to provide the dogs with safer, more comfortable spaces, though she worries about them being dismantled in the winter for firewood.

When asked what she enjoys most about caring for these animals, she said it is when she calls the dogs to bed and they snuggle up to her. She describes the feeling as “like Nirvana.”

2026 Update:

The financial situation for Pina and these animals remains dire. For her to continue offering care and safety, she must also be able to keep her lights on, which is also at risk. There is a need for cleaning supplies, dry food, wet food, diapers, and porridge cooking products to be mixed with dry food.

A few people asked how they can help Pina and the animals. You can donate directly through PayPal: adoptFromArmenia@gmail.com (name should be Lusine Hayrapetyan)

You can also reach out and stay updated with Pina Vermish on Facebook, and follow @pin_pets_hause and @love4paws_rescue