New guide dog clinic opens in Israel in memory of much-loved Martin

The legacy of a much-loved British charity director is helping Israelis heal from the wounds of war and terror with the help of unexpected friends - guide dogs.

And now these precious pets will be able to receive treatment at a new state-of-the-art veterinary clinic at the Israel Guide Dog Centre near Tel Aviv, thanks partly to donations in memory of Martin Segal, who ran its UK fundraising arm.

Figures have shown that since October 7, approximately three million adults have experienced anxiety, depression and symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

This has led to greater demands on the guide dog charity which, as well as supporting people with visual impairment, also trains dogs to support people with PTSD and as emotional support dogs.

Martin was executive director of the Israel Guide Dog Centre UK until his death in January 2024 from oesophageal cancer.

Rebecca Segal speaking at the opening of the centre (Photo: Itai Belson)[Missing Credit]

At the clinic’s opening ceremony, Martin’s widow, Rebecca, said: “Today is a beautiful reminder of the wonderful work Martin did and how much respect you all had for him.

“The centre has grown and changed so much from when I first came here in 2011, and it will always have a special place in my heart.”

The clinic, which includes an operating theatre, examination room, breeding area and five recovery kennels, has an entrance hall dedicated to Martin’s memory.

Orna Braun showing guests round the new clinic at the Israel Guide Dog Centre (Photo: Itai Belson)[Missing Credit]

Orna Braun, co-founder of the Israel Guide Dog Centre and head of breeding, explained: “This new clinic had long been a dream, making us better equipped to meet both current and future demand.”

Speaking to the JC soon after Martin’s untimely death at the age of 58, Rebecca paid tribute to his passion for Israel Guide Dog Centre UK, saying: “He completely turned the charity around.”