Interviewing Dayana Beainy, founder of The shouf dog shelter, vegan and animal rights advocate

Dayana, an inspiring advocate for animal welfare, has dedicated her life to living in harmony with her values. From her deep respect for animals to her unwavering commitment to protecting their lives, Dayana has not only embraced veganism but has actively worked to create a better world for all living beings.

One of her remarkable achievements is the establishment of the Shouf Dog Shelter, a sanctuary for stray dogs in Lebanon. This shelter, located in the Chouf area, provides a safe haven for dogs rescued from abandonment, abuse, injury, or neglect. With the support of skilled veterinarians and dedicated volunteers, the shelter ensures that every dog receives medical care, food, and love, giving them a second chance at life.

Dayana's devotion to animal welfare extends beyond the shelter. She has also led rescue missions in Dahye, one of the most bombed and densely populated areas of Beirut. Risking her life, she has been feeding and caring for the countless stray dogs and cats struggling to survive in the region. These innocent beings—many of whom have endured immense hardship—seek affection even more than food.
Her efforts highlight the urgency of providing not only sustenance but also love and protection for these vulnerable animals.

In this interview, Dayana shares her thoughts on veganism, animal welfare, and the incredible efforts she leads to raise awareness, rescue animals, and shape a compassionate future for society. Join us as we dive into her transformative journey.

Dayana, can you share your perspective on veganism?

Why wouldn’t I be vegan? The default state of things is to be plant-based. If I weren’t vegan, I’d live in a state of contradiction. Loving animals, yet consuming them, is incompatible with my beliefs. I deeply understand that God created animals just as He created me. From clay, He breathed life into us. They are like me. How can I eat them? I cannot bear the thought of a living being dying simply to feed me. How could I ever slaughter, boil, or grill them to satisfy my hunger?

People often wonder how you maintain your vegan lifestyle and whether it comes with challenges. What’s your experience, and how do you address misconceptions about vegan options?

Some people ask me how I live as a vegan. They express pity, saying, “Oh, how unfortunate, you’re missing out on food. That’s why you’re weak.” But I’m 57 years old, and I work as hard as ten men. My food is clean, my body is clean, and my soul is pure. I am vegan because my soul is pure.

As for misconceptions, everything you desire exists in a vegan version—cheese, yogurt, kishk, shanklish, meat, cakes—anything you can imagine, all with the same taste and aroma. Visit Lebanese Vegans Social Hub—they have countless recipes.

Religious beliefs sometimes justify consuming animals. How do you respond?

I’ve studied Islamic teachings deeply. The Quran, the Bible, and the Torah all emphasize mercy. When God sent the ram to Prophet Abraham (peace be upon him), it was a heavenly ram—great and unmatched on Earth. That ram didn’t die; it symbolized a lesson.

With modern resources, is veganism more accessible than ever?

Absolutely. Today, we don’t need to eat meat or any animal product. Humans in the past might have had no choice, lacking awareness. It’s scientifically proven that meat causes cancer and is filled with carcinogens. All the nutrients we need are available in legumes, grains, and plants. For example, I boil a little cashew daily and prepare coffee from it. I don’t experience bloating, gas, or nausea, and everything is affordable.

Can you tell us about your work with animals and how you ensure their well-being?

We have about 170 dogs in the shelter, in addition to many dogs and cats placed in the care of trusted individuals. The animals that arrive at our shelter are often in terrible condition and usually require intensive care and specialized medical treatment.

I collaborate with Dr. Salman Nazeer Abou Assi, a British veterinarian who remotely monitors the health of our dogs through video consultations. When he visits Lebanon, he performs life-saving and highly complex surgeries that require exceptional skill and expertise to restore hope to these animals. Dr. Abou Assi has been one of the most significant contributors and supporters of our shelter, playing a crucial role in its establishment. His dedication and generosity have helped lay the foundation for our mission, ensuring that the shelter remains a safe haven and provides essential care for rescued animals.

Additionally, I cooperate with Dr. Christine and Dr. Johnny Khoury from Naughty Dogs Hospital in Baabdat, who are truly outstanding professionals. They have generously committed to volunteering at the shelter alongside their staff and equipment to provide essential medical care to the rescued animals. Their dedication and expertise allow us to offer top-quality treatment and ensure that every dog receives the attention and support they need to recover and thrive. Through this collective effort, we provide these vulnerable creatures with a second chance at life, making sure they are not just rescued but truly cared for.

What do you say to people considering getting a dog?

A dog is a treasure. If you don’t genuinely love them with your soul and heart, then don’t take one in. There will come a day when you grow tired of them, weary of cleaning up after them, or burdened by the responsibility of walking them. A dog gives you its soul—it’s a love that should never be conditional. It’s true and sincere love.

Can you share with us your future projects and how they involve the younger generation?

After a long struggle, we secured a license from the Ministry of Interior for our association named after my mother, Nouzha. It is called “Nouzha for the Animals and the Planet,” under which we operate the Shouf Dog Shelter. The association also includes a large media center that aims to educate the younger generation.

When we go out to rescue dogs, we are accompanied by children. With us is a radio station that enables the children to share their experiences with others. In this way, we create real change in society by raising a generation grounded in humanity and mercy, a generation that understands animals are living sentient beings deserving of respect. They are not just beings raised, pampered, and then slaughtered or eaten. It’s inconsistent to say it’s acceptable to eat a sheep but not a dog. We must treat all creatures with an enlightened spirit that values and respects life.

Conclusion

Dayana’s story is a testament to the power of living with integrity, compassion, and purpose. Her work reminds us that every choice we make matters—not just for ourselves but for the world around us. Whether through veganism, rescuing animals, or inspiring the next generation, Dayana’s mission is one of hope and humanity.

The Shouf Dog Shelter continues to provide a sanctuary for abandoned and neglected dogs, but its vital work relies on support from people like you. A GoFundMe page has been created to ensure the shelter’s efforts thrive. Your donation can provide food, medical care, and a safe haven for these innocent creatures, giving them the chance to heal and find loving forever homes. Together, we can make a difference and give these dogs the love and care they truly deserve.

As Dayana continues to make strides in animal welfare and awareness, she invites us all to embrace a life that respects and values every living being, fostering a brighter and kinder future for all.