I had never met or even seen a podenco before coming to Lanzarote. These stunning, highly-sensory dogs have large, highly-mobile prick ears, keen eyesight and an acute sense of smell. They have been bred for a combination of speed and agility with endurance for trotting rather than galloping. They are incredibly agile and have been known to climb trees in pursuit of prey and can jump great heights from a stand. They are remarkably clever with incredible focus.
Podencos and galgos are two distinctive Spanish sighthounds that are bred to hunt in packs for a brief and very horrific hunting season. Although ancient breeds, they are two of the most misunderstood and much maligned breeds in the world. It is estimated that 60,000–80,000 of these proud dogs are abandoned and/or slaughtered every year after their value is deemed worthless or redundant. Considered to be "tools" according to the outdated Spanish law, these beautiful, loyal hounds are often kept worse than prisoners, chained in dark sheds and virtually starved to be 'more efficient hunters'. Additionally, these affectionate dogs are not shown affection, as it is the belief that it will impair their hunting abilities.
The abuse these marvellous dogs suffer at their owners' hands often include hanging, stoning, tossing in dry wells, drowning, disfigurement - and other barbaric punishments. Whether due to tradition or culture, the abuse and abandonment of podencos and galgos has continued for centuries.
Curious and clownish, they have a profound awareness of their surroundings and a sensitivity to their humans. Podencos reward their human companions with great loyalty, affection and are wonderful family members. I really love them. There are some at SARA who have completely stolen my heart (Vega, Ayudante, Phineas, Pelayo, Oso, Nelson, Paz ... the list goes on) and one day I hope to be able to offer a couple of 'pods' a forever home.
Sadly, SARA is full of these beautiful dogs - abandoned and abused. One very special Podenco, Pelayo, a medium-sized and very handsome mix, is now seven years old and has been in SARA for nearly all his life since he was just a few weeks old. He has never known another life and he has so much love to give. He is shy, gentle and a really sweet dog who loves to play. He walks well on a lead, is good with other dogs, has a calm nature and is not interested in hunting. He would be so happy in a loving home with lots of cuddles – he’s spent far too long in a cage. With his beautiful colouring and beautiful nature, he is known as 'The Golden Guy'. He also has unusually long canine teeth, like a handsome vampire hound. An exceptional dog. He deserves better.
Watch a video of Pelayo here.... Pelayo The Golden Boy Video
Adopt Pelayo here ... Adopt Pelayo
Here is my Haiku for Pelayo
With grace, poise and pride
Nature gave us a dance and
Named him 'Pelayo'
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