Canine Companionship for IDF Families Suffering From Loss

Friends of the Israel Defense Forces has launched an extraordinary initiative together with the Israeli Ministry of Defense to provide emotional support dogs to bereaved families in Israel who have lost a loved one serving in the IDF.

Through this program, specially trained emotional support dogs will help families navigate the deep sorrow of losing a loved one.

A Mission of Healing and Hope

When grief becomes overwhelming, a soft nudge from a warm nose, a pair of steady, loving eyes, and the constant presence of a loyal emotional support dog can bring healing. Whether it’s a child who’s lost a parent, a parent mourning a son or daughter, or a spouse left to carry on alone, these dogs act as a constant source of warmth, security, and emotional grounding—offering loyalty and pure love.

The first phase of FIDF’s Emotional Support Dogs for Bereaved Families program will provide trained dogs to at least 40 families, who have completed an application process, with a special focus on those affected by the ongoing Swords of Iron War.

Each emotional support dog is matched carefully with a grieving family, and trained not only to assist with emotional regulation, but to sense distress, ease anxiety, and provide gentle physical connection in moments of deep sorrow. They break through the isolation of grief and provide a reason to get out of bed, a reason to smile again, and a reminder that joy is possible.

How the Program Works

The initiative follows a four-phase process to ensure successful integration of emotional support dogs into the homes and hearts of bereaved families:

1. Dog Selection – Puppies undergo a careful screening process and enter training at just 2.5 months old.
2. Foster Care & Training – For four months, the dogs live with foster families, receiving weekly training.
3. Transfer to Families – After an evaluation, the dogs are placed with bereaved families, with a one-month adjustment period.
4. In-Home Training & Integration – Over six months, families participate in structured training sessions, with trainers making home visits to ensure a smooth transition.

Donor Support

“Donors who fund these dogs will have the privilege of naming them,” said Steve Weil, CEO, FIDF. “Donors will also receive periodic updates and photographs of their sponsored dogs in training, further strengthening the bond between giver and recipient.”

Contact your local chapter director, or email [email protected] to learn more.