Overview

• Billy, a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, was taken from Kibbutz Nir Oz during a Hamas attack that killed 1,200 people and led to over 250 abductions.
• IDF reservist Aviad Shapira found the dog in the rubble of Rafah, Gaza, after it approached his unit, likely recognizing Hebrew.
• A microchip scan at an Israeli veterinary clinic confirmed Billy’s ownership, enabling the reunion with Rachel Dancyg on April 16, 2025.
• The dog’s return provided emotional relief to the Dancyg family, who had endured the deaths of Rachel’s ex-husband and brother in Hamas captivity.
• Billy, showing signs of trauma and weight loss, symbolizes a rare moment of hope for a community still grieving and recovering from the ongoing conflict.