Therapy Dog Lucy, First of United Hatzalah Resilience Unit, Passes Away After 11 Years of Service

Lucy, the first therapy dog of United Hatzalah's Resilience Unit, has died at age 11 in her home in Jerusalem. Over more than a decade, Lucy accompanied her handlers to numerous emergency scenes, including the Meron disaster, the October 7 attacks, and the Surfside condominium collapse in Florida. She was trained uniquely by her owners, Betia and Moshe Yaffe, to identify and comfort trauma victims, often sensing who needed help before others realized it.

Betia Yaffe, a volunteer and handler, recalled how initially the idea of bringing a dog to trauma scenes was met with skepticism, but Lucy proved invaluable in providing emotional support. One memorable incident involved Lucy guiding Betia to a firefighter emotionally affected by a fireworks factory fire in Kfar Saba. Lucy’s presence helped the firefighter cope with the trauma of his missing nephew.

In 2021, Lucy and Betia were part of the rescue efforts at the Surfside building collapse, where Lucy comforted grieving families, including a grandmother who lost three grandchildren. Lucy’s work paved the way for the training of dozens of therapy dogs now active in the unit.

Eli Beer, founder and president of United Hatzalah, praised Lucy’s legacy, saying she reached people in moments when words failed and inspired a continuing program of canine support for trauma victims. For Betia, Lucy was not only a partner in rescue missions but also a protector who helped her endure the emotional toll of trauma scenes. Lucy’s impact will continue through the many dogs and volunteers following her path.