Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) affects many veterans in Israel who often live in silence with the debilitating symptoms of nightmares, panic attacks, and depression. Since 2020, the Israel Guide Dog Centre has successfully trained 35 PTSD Service dogs and partnered them with IDF veterans.
When Benzi Alkon left his elite Special Forces unit of the IDF he anticipated returning to normal civilian life. Little did he know that horrific memories he had suppressed for years would later consume him. In an explosive rage, Benzi barricaded himself in his bedroom and stayed isolated for four months. Incredibly, Benzi found the strength to seek help and was introduced to the Israel Guide Dog Centre, where he met his Service Dog, Lugo.
For veterans living with PTSD, like Benzi, their dogs are a lifeline to the outside world. That’s why it’s so troubling when these critical Service Dogs are refused access to public places.
On May 1st, Israel enacted Amendment No. 22, the Equal Rights Act for Persons with Disabilities. This legislation protects the rights of Service Dogs by granting them access to all public places. Nonetheless, Benzi understood that a law, no matter how profound, remains powerless unless people know about it. So, he conceived a plan to create an Israeli cross-country bike ride called “Partners in Battle” to raise awareness of the need for PTSD Service Dogs and highlight Israel’s new public access law.
The ride started in Jerusalem at the home of Israel’s President, Isaac ‘Bougie’ Herzog, where he enthusiastically welcomed 30 cyclists. As Benzi anxiously awaited his turn to address the crowd, his right leg bounced nervously, his head bent forward, and his fingers clutched Lugo’s harness as she sat between his legs.
Despite the crowded setting, Lugo coaxed Benzi to get down on the ground. Here they stared at each other as if they were the only ones in the world. Benzi caressed Lugo’s head, and Lugo provided silent, yet critical love and support. This extraordinary encounter fortified Benzi’s resolve, emboldening him to rise above his fears and deliver a deeply moving speech.
Because of Benzi and Lugo, the Centre raised funds to train more PTSD Service Dogs, and they were able to bring widespread attention to a law for all people who need Service Dogs in Israel.