Israeli Veterinarian Wins Global Animal Welfare Award for Post-Oct 7 Rescue Efforts

Dr. Galia Melman Shilo, founder of the "Negev-Vet" clinics, has been named the recipient of the 2026 World Veterinary Association (WSAVA) Global Award for Animal Welfare. The prestigious award recognizes her exceptional dedication, bravery, and leadership in protecting pets and supporting their families in the aftermath of the October 7, 2023, Hamas attacks.

Dr. Shilo returned to her community in the Gaza border region on October 8, risking her life to address the crisis. Witnessing the devastation and the large number of animals left behind, injured, and separated from their evacuated owners, she mobilized with her husband, Ziv, and a network of volunteers. They entered communities under fire to rescue pets, converted an abandoned horse stable into a temporary emergency shelter, and provided medical care and vaccinations to hundreds of displaced animals in Eilat.

Her efforts were instrumental in reuniting hundreds of pets with families who had lost everything in the attack. Dr. Anat Lichter-Feld, chair of the Israeli Companion Animal Veterinary Association (ICAVA), who nominated Dr. Shilo, praised her work as reflecting the highest values of the veterinary profession: compassion, service, responsibility, and courage.

Dr. Shilo expressed her deep emotion, stating that for families who had lost their homes and sense of security, knowing their beloved pet was safe, cared for, and waiting for them "meant the world." She emphasized that the award is not hers alone but belongs to everyone involved in the rescue efforts, highlighting the purpose and mission she felt during those critical days. "It's not a prize for one person, it's a prize for so many people who were there," she said.