Blog

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, [...]

January 5th was a sad day for the entire Israel Guide Dog Center Family. We are heartbroken to announce the passing of our friend Martin Segal, Executive Director of Israel Guide Dog Centre UK For Martin, Israel and the Israel Guide Dog Center was a passion, and his infectious enthusiasm, hard work and determination made him a true leader who took the Israel Guide Dog Centre UK from strength to strength - in the process, helping many Israelis affected by [...]

How do you train a puppy to come when you call, i.e., a reliable recall? Well for one, you start by calling the puppy to you thousands of times over the first year of its life. You reinforce with a food reward 90% of the time or more. You never call the puppy to you for anything unpleasant, like a bath or a nail trim. You never call the puppy when you are angry. When the puppy comes, [...]