Blog

At the Israel Guide Dog Center, every puppy represents the hope that the quote from the Talmud is true—whoever saves a single life, it is considered as if he saved an entire world. But the highly choreographed journey doesn’t begin when a puppy first enters training; it begins much earlier—in the genes.   The foundational qualities of a great Guide Dog or Service Dog are: intelligence, calmness, strong health, the ability to learn, and good focus. Each of these [...]

Written by Nitzan, Dor's Sister: Dor wasn’t just my big brother, he was my anchor, my best friend. We were only two years apart, and now I’ve reached the age he’ll never see. Dor and his girlfriend, Savyon, were killed together that morning near Gaza. He was 30. The world lost two beautiful souls, and our family was shattered. I remember the days of uncertainty, the endless waiting for news, and the disbelief when it finally came. There [...]

Israel has taken a major step forward in expanding and protecting the rights of Israelis with disabilities who rely on trained dogs for daily independence, safety, and quality of life. On July 2, 2025, new regulations went into effect under the Equal Rights for Persons with Disabilities Law (Amendment No. 22 and Temporary Law) of 2022. For years, Israeli law primarily recognized Guide Dogs for people who are blind or visually impaired. While Guide Dogs remain essential, many other [...]

In Israel, military service is a rite of passage which is deeply ingrained into the national psyche. It’s an experience that shapes society and all who serve. But many also carry scars of that service long after their mission is complete and their uniform is retired. PTSD is a life-long and often debilitating condition. Despite it’s prevalence in Israeli veterans, Israeli society still lacks understanding of this trauma. Service dogs have become an essential source of support, healing, companionship, [...]

A few weeks ago, our friend Benzi visited the US with his service dog Lugo and his wife Irit. We were so lucky to be hosted by incredible friends in Charlotte, Richmond, Philadelphia, and New York. Benzi served in an elite IDF Special Forces unit over 30 years ago. When discharged, he had a good job, got married, and had children. But Benzi suffered from “an invisible injury.” He successfully pushed his traumatic experiences deep down for many years, [...]