Lebanon animal rescue hero Houssein Hamze credits a barking dog for saving his life during the 2006 war. Two decades later, he still repays that debt by running Mashala shelter in Zefta, caring for hundreds of animals amid conflict.
How a Dog Saved Houssein Hamze From a Bomb
During Israel’s 2006 war against Hezbollah, Hamze woke to frantic barking from his first rescue pet. Moments later, a bomb landed near his home. Shrapnel struck exactly where he had been sleeping. “I swear to God, he really saved me from death. Animals always possess a sixth sense we don’t have,” Hamze recalls.
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From Near-Death to Full-Time Rescuer
After that night, Hamze founded Mashala shelter in south Lebanon. In peacetime he takes in strays; in wartime he becomes the only lifeline for animals in the area. The donation-supported farm now hosts about 200 dogs, horses, camels, chickens, geese, and ravens. “When I don’t visit for more than two days, she starts to cry,” he says of the camel Jamoola, who wraps her neck around him like a hug.
Comparison: Sheltering in Peacetime vs. Wartime
| Condition | Peacetime Operations | Wartime Operations |
|---|---|---|
| Number of animals | ~150 strays | ~200+ including abandoned pets |
| Staff | Volunteers and Hamze | Hamze alone (others flee) |
| Food supply | Regular donations | Erratic, relies on emergency aid |
| Risk level | Low | Extreme (bombings, lack of water) |
Key Challenges Facing Lebanon’s Animal Shelters
- Funding shortages – Donations drop during economic crises and war.
- Evacuation difficulties – No safe zones for animals; many are left behind.
- Health risks – Injuries from shrapnel, malnutrition, and disease spread quickly.
- Emotional toll – Rescuers like Hamze work alone under constant threat.
FAQ: Lebanon Animal Rescue and Houssein Hamze
How did Houssein Hamze start his animal rescue?
After his dog saved him from a bomb in 2006, Hamze founded Mashala shelter in Zefta, Lebanon, to care for strays and animals in need.
What animals does the Mashala shelter house?
The shelter cares for about 200 dogs, along with horses, camels, chickens, geese, and ravens.
How can people support Lebanon animal rescue efforts?
Donations via the shelter’s official channels help provide food, medical care, and safe housing. Spreading awareness also makes a critical difference.
Houssein Hamze remains in Lebanon through every war, determined to honor the sixth sense of the dog that saved him. His story is a powerful testament to the bond between humans and animals—and the courage of those who refuse to leave them behind.
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