Rescue dogs in Spain, especially Spanish greyhounds or Galgo Espa帽ol, often face harsh conditions and neglect, but they make wonderful pets when given a chance.
Living in southern Spain, I had not intended to have dogs when I relocated here in 2012, but fate had other plans. Today, I share my home with two female Spanish greyhounds, both rescues. My journey with these beautiful creatures began unexpectedly when I started feeding Issy, a greyhound who lived on my street. On a freezing February night in 2018, I decided to rescue her. It took several attempts, but on St Valentine鈥檚 Day, I finally succeeded, bringing her into my home where she quickly settled in, adopting one of my sofas.
Nearly a year later, while walking in the campo, Issy found a discarded female greyhound in poor condition. She followed us home, and after a thorough vet examination and testing for Leishmaniasis鈥攁 parasitic disease transmitted by sand flies鈥攕he was found to be negative. One of my granddaughters named her Poppy.
Unlike many hunting dogs in Spain who face a grim fate, my greyhounds found solace and comfort with me.
Poppy and Issy, being couch potatoes, claimed the sofas, leaving me to make do with a dining chair until I bought a recliner. We are all comfortable now.
As we approach 2025, we celebrate Poppy鈥檚 sixth anniversary with us, making her around 8 or 9 years old, and Issy probably 8 years. Greyhounds typically have a lifespan of 12-15 years. Despite their greying pointy faces, they still enjoy spirited sprints.
My campervan adventures with them, including a 10-week trip around France, have been unforgettable. Poppy took the bottom bunk, and Issy the bench, making our travels a joyous escape from the Andalucia heat.
And there have indeed been challenges. Issy developed epilepsy, which is now under control with the help of CBD oil. Poor Poppy, however, was abused in her previous life and, while Issy loves everyone, Poppy is still scared of people, even to this day.
Continuing the story, I've had the pleasure of rescuing three more dogs: two delightful pups and an older male cross. Fortunately, I managed to find loving homes for each of them. The older dog found a new life in England with friends of mine, but that's another tale for another time.
Sadly, the older rescue dog, who my friends named Toffee, passed over the Rainbow Bridge on Christmas Eve.
Greyhounds are a remarkable breed, renowned for their incredible speed and grace. Originally bred for hunting and coursing game, these sleek and slender dogs can reach speeds of up to 45 miles per hour, making them one of the fastest dog breeds. They require surprisingly little exercise compared to other breeds. Greyhounds have a rich history and have been depicted in art and literature for centuries, symbolising elegance and agility.
