This was never intended to be a news item but after so many people have contacted Suzy to know more about Chica’s story, we have created this article to hopefully help highlight the efforts of so many people working hard to help these dogs.
With a passion for Lanzarote, Suzy of the DGWGO Team and mum of Skipper the DGWGO News Pup, first learnt about the plight of Spanish sighthounds (Podencos and Galgos) after joining a Canary Island’s Facebook Group Page.
These gentle natured dogs are bred for a 12 week rabbit hunting season during which they are frequently abhorrently treated by their hunter/owners and then often abandoned, beaten or subjected to a horrific end.
One beautiful Podenco in particular touched Suzy’s heart and last December she managed to meet up with this exceptional forgiving dog in Lanzarote. Angelique had been left blinded and traumatised by horrific injuries unprovenly caused by her previous owner.
On Suzy’s return to Dumfries she was determined to help to make a difference. She discovered a FB page called ‘Hope for Podencos’, which is a small sanctuary run by a couple previously from Glasgow. Accompanied by their nine year old daughter and Parson Russell Terrier, Skipper, Suzy took part in the’Million Paws Walk’, which aimed to educate and raise public awareness
One recent Saturday morning Suzy saw a post from the page which showed a young, tiny, Podenco Andaluz who had faced euthanasia as her time was up in the Spanish council perrera (often referred to as the killing shelters). Suzy was smitten and asked her husband (DP) to see the video clip; he watched, rubbed his chin and said ‘I’ve seen all I need to know, I don’t care what it costs, just get her’. The family went through vetting procedures to become the proud adopters of Chica (formally named Yum Yum by the rescue).
Chica made the 1600 mile journey from Murcia to Dumfries via Paws on the Move . She is now so loved by the whole family and making great progress.
By adopting one dog SP realises she can’t resolve the overall problem, but she has made an enormous difference to the future of sweet Chica.
This video, of Chica in her foster home, was the first time Suzy saw Chica and decided instantly to adopt her.
There are thousands like Chica, all offering undevoted love for simply a place of comfort, food and kindness.
If you would like to know more about the plight of these beautiful, gentle souls , then you can do so by clicking here
Suzy is also a regular fundraiser for the Dumfries and Galloway canine rescue.
Chica and Skipper are now the best of friends and she is slowly gaining confidence.
