The recent surge in the number of stray dogs infiltrating the western Negev region from the Gaza Strip has been alarming. Since the border fence breach by Hamas terrorists on October 7, an estimated 5,000 dogs have made their way into the area. They've been seen wandering in southern Israeli communities, causing harm to livestock an in some instances, attacking people.
Dogs roaming around
The situation has been vividly captured in numerous recent videos. These show the dogs fearlessly approaching both people and vehicles, barking relentlessly. One incident saw a person filming near Kibbutz Zikim being attacked by a pack of these dogs.
As the Nature and Parks Authority keeps a close watch on this escalating issue, they've noted a rapid increase in the dog population, with a significant number of puppies among the roaming packs. The dogs, in their quest for sustenance, have been seen near IDF forces at the border, consuming leftovers or drinking from water containers, with soldiers just meters away.
They dogs also ventured into nearly deserted settlements, reaching cattle pens and primarily targeting calves. Dozens of calves, as reported by ranchers in the border settlements, have fallen victim to these starving dogs.
The Chief Scientist of the Nature and Parks Authority, Dr. Yehoshua Shakedi, expressed concern over the dogs "flooding" the open areas and kibbutzim. He warned that they pose a threat to hikers, pedestrians and joggers, and that they ravage both wild and farm animals.
Several weeks ago, the Health and Agriculture ministries issued a warning against the unauthorized and illegal importation of dogs and cats from the Gaza Strip into Israeli territory, in part after soldiers rescued the animals. The warning stems from the risk of diseases like rabies being transmitted.
Addressing the measures to mitigate this issue, Shakedi admitted that "attempts to gather the dogs have proven futile," suggesting the only effective solution might be to shoot them. As he pointed out, this may seem cruel, but the alternative could be even harsher, citing the tragic incident of a child bitten to death a few years ago.
Simultaneously, animal welfare advocates are making efforts to rescue these dogs from the Gaza border region, with the aim of providing them a nurturing environment in Israeli homes. These dogs undergo necessary checks before being handed over to organizations that facilitate their adoption.