American soldiers who served in Israel during the Iron Swords war found three adult dogs and seven puppies in Gaza border communities and decided not to leave them behind. With the help of the Let the Animals Live association and SPCA International, the dogs are undergoing a comprehensive medical process and will be flown to the United States, where they will be adopted by the soldiers themselves. The dogs — Rocky, Ghost, Amy, Rak, Pak, Serge, Baby Face, Smokey, Kylie and Shekel will be transported from Israel to the United States.
American soldiers adopted dogs from Gaza border communities
(Video: Let Animals Live)
Let the Animals Live works in cooperation with SPCA, a large international organization dedicated to rescuing animals worldwide. As part of the partnership, the Israeli association provides the required logistical and medical framework, including quarantine, rabies vaccinations, antibody tests and boarding the dogs in kennels — a particularly complex process due to restrictions on exporting animals from Israel. SPCA is funding most of the medical care and the flights.
The soldiers, who have already returned to the United States, each chose a dog to adopt. The dogs will be flown to New York and from there transferred to their new homes, a moving conclusion to a story of compassion and responsibility, even in the heart of a combat zone.
One of the soldiers, Brandon, told Yedioth Ahronoth and ynet: “We found the dogs during our operations in the Gaza border area. Most of the dogs there were in very bad condition. Many had fleas, ticks and worms and were malnourished. We immediately gave them food, water and medical treatment. We managed to rescue some of the dogs, but there are many others we had to leave behind. We decided to adopt them because we built a relationship with the dogs during our time there, and they learned that they could feel safe with us. Everyone on my team loves dogs and we all wanted to see them safe. My dog’s name is Amy. Everyone who adopted a dog got to name it.”
Yael Arkin, CEO of Let the Animals Live, are pleased with the end of this story. “At a time when reality is complex and difficult, this story is a reminder that even within a combat zone there is room for compassion and responsibility. The soldiers chose to take on a long-term commitment — not only to rescue, but also to adopt and provide a warm home.”
Lori Kalef, program director at SPCA International, said: “We are filled with joy and excitement to partner with Let the Animals Live to rescue and reunite 10 loyal dogs with the American service members who protected them during their service. This special rescue was made possible solely thanks to close cooperation and a shared commitment, and it proves what can be achieved when organizations come together for animals in need.”