A man devotes his life to dog rescue
Often referred to as “the Palestinian Doctor Dolittle,” Saeed el Aer, a 45-year-old Gaza resident, has spent his entire life rescuing dogs. This man is a hero to the many homeless animals that have been abandoned.
Despite the numerous problems affecting Gaza, such as war, homelessness, power cuts and lack of clean water, Saeed el Aer has dedicated his life to giving these dogs in need a chance.
He has spent months scouring the streets of Gaza for stray pets. He gives her back to them after gaining their trust and nurturing them, then sets out to find a loving home for them.
With the support of Saeed el Aer, the Sulala Association for Animals Care was formed. Said el Aer explained:
We patrol the streets and feed them for days or weeks until they get used to us. If that happens, we’ll catch them and give them to the club.
Saeed el Aer reportedly spent more than $18,000 caring for the 50 dogs he has so far spared.
This includes vet bills as well as rent for a 2 acre farm where the dogs he rescues live.
Volunteers prepare fodder over wood to feed the dogs at the farm in Zahra district in southern Gaza.
When the animals are first brought onto the farm they are kept on a leash for a few days until they are more relaxed and free to roam the property and greet visitors.
Said claims:
You now fully understand who I am. As soon as I get in the car, they come at me from all over the farm.
Saeed el Aer is completely surprised by the overwhelming number of Gazans who want to visit the farm, feed the animals and take care of them.