Dog saves man from bomb in a dramatic twist of fate that changed Houssein Hamze's life forever. During Israel's 2006 war against Hezbollah, Hamze woke to frantic barking from his first rescue pet. Moments later, a bomb shattered his home, and shrapnel struck exactly where he had been sleeping. Today, at 57, he runs the Mashala shelter in south Lebanon, repaying that debt by caring for hundreds of animals caught in conflict.
How a Dog's Sixth Sense Saved a Life
Houssein Hamze, a lifelong animal lover, credits his dog with supernatural intuition. “I swear to God, he really saved me from death. Animals always possess a sixth sense we don't have,” he recalls. The experience ignited a mission that has spanned two decades and two wars. His shelter in Zefta village now serves as the sole lifeline for strays during active combat.
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Life at the Mashala Shelter
The donation-supported farm hosts an eclectic collection of rescues: about 200 dogs, many missing ears or tails, gnaw on donated chicken feet. Horses whinny at the entrance, chickens scurry between camel legs, and geese patrol their enclosures. Two camels, Jamoola and her son Jamool, were rescued from the Bekaa valley. “When I don't visit for more than two days, she starts to cry. She wraps her neck around me as if hugging me,” Hamze says, stroking Jamoola's neck.
| Animal Type | Number Rescued | Special Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Dogs | ~200 | Many war-injured, missing ears/tails |
| Camels | 2 | Mother and calf, very affectionate |
| Horses | Several | Used for rehabilitation therapy |
| Chickens & Geese | Dozens | Free-range on the farm |
| Ravens | Small group | Circle the valley daily |
Key Takeaways from Houssein Hamze's Mission
- Animal intuition can save lives – his dog alerted him seconds before a bomb hit.
- One act of kindness creates a lifelong commitment – he stayed in Lebanon through three wars to care for animals.
- War doesn't stop animal rescue – the shelter operates even under active bombing.
- Community support is vital – donations keep the shelter running and animals fed.
During the most recent Hezbollah-Israel war that started on 2 March 2026, Hamze was one of only 20 villagers who remained. He refused to abandon the animals, knowing they had no other caregiver. The shelter's residents rely entirely on him for food, medical care, and protection from airstrikes.
FAQ
How did Houssein Hamze start his animal rescue?
After his dog saved him from a bomb in 2006, Hamze founded the Mashala shelter in Zefta, south Lebanon, to care for stray and war-affected animals. He has been running it ever since.
What animals does the Mashala shelter care for?
The shelter hosts about 200 dogs, several horses, two camels, chickens, geese, and a group of ravens. Many animals have injuries from war or neglect.
How can I support Houssein Hamze's animal rescue?
The shelter is donation-supported. You can contribute through animal welfare organizations focused on Lebanon, or directly via the Mashala shelter's fundraising pages. Every donation helps provide food and medical care.
Houssein Hamze's story is a powerful reminder that compassion endures even in the darkest times. His bond with the animals is unbreakable, and his shelter continues to be a beacon of hope in a war-torn region. If you're moved by his mission, consider sharing his story or donating to ensure these animals survive the next conflict.
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