Cieco's escape from Nabatieh to Beirut amid Israeli bombings

In Lebanon, a blind dog named Cieco was rescued from a shelter in Nabatieh after being shot in the face. On September 25, he was evacuated to the APC shelter in Baabda, just a short distance from areas heavily bombed during the ongoing conflict. Cieco had spent two years at the Mashala animal shelter, where he was cared for by Houssein Hamza, who dedicated his life to rescuing animals amidst the turmoil. Despite the dangers, Hamza refused to abandon the animals, ensuring they received food and care even as many people fled the region. The situation in Nabatieh remains dire, with ongoing violence affecting both humans and animals. Hamza's commitment to animal welfare highlights the broader struggle faced by many in Lebanon, as shelters work tirelessly to provide refuge for displaced pets and support for their caretakers. The resilience of these shelters and their founders, like Hamza and Sandra Mouawad of Paws Crossed Lebanon, underscores the importance of compassion in times of crisis, as they continue to advocate for the voiceless amidst the chaos.