Israeli Rescuer Battles Stray Dog Crisis Across Southern Israel

Bat-El Levi from Yeruham has dedicated her life to rescuing stray dogs across southern Israel, including Yeruham, Dimona, Beersheba, and Arad. Her emotional videos, often showing her crying while holding distressed dogs, have touched many, but behind the scenes, she faces significant personal and financial hardships. Levi describes the situation as catastrophic, likening it to a medieval era for animal welfare, with many strays suffering severe neglect and abuse.

Levi recounts a traumatic incident where she intervened to save a puppy with a broken leg from being discarded by a municipal worker. She stresses that the only effective solution to end the cycle of suffering is widespread neutering and spaying, a cause she has been fighting for years. She criticizes the authorities for spending millions on shelters and euthanasia instead of preventive sterilization programs.

Her commitment comes at a high personal cost. Levi often receives calls in the middle of the night to rescue animals, which has strained her family life and affected her mental health. Once an optimistic and joyful person, she now struggles with anxiety and requires psychological treatment. Despite this, she finds purpose and fulfillment in saving dogs and seeing them adopted into loving homes.

Levi urges the public to increase awareness and compassion for animals, suggesting simple acts like leaving water outside or seeking help for distressed animals. She believes everyone has a role to play in improving the lives of stray animals and concludes that rescuing dogs is her true calling.