Podenco Rescue: Saving Lives One Dog at a Time

Podencos are ancient dogs originating from the Iberian Peninsula, with a history dating back over 2,000 years. Their unique characteristics and gentle nature make them a beloved breed.

In Spain and Portugal, podencos have traditionally been used for hunting small game, but many have been abandoned or left to fend for themselves. Unfortunately, this has led to a significant population of stray podencos.

The Podenco Rescue Association estimates that over 10,000 podencos are abandoned every year in Spain alone. This is a staggering number, and it's a testament to the need for dedicated rescue efforts.

With the right care and attention, podencos can thrive and make wonderful companions.

I've had a Spanish rescue podenco for a few years now, and I can attest to their wonderful nature. They are generally fabulous with children, having usually been through a lot and are grateful.

Podencos are extremely loyal, and you can really see how happy they are. Spanish rescue centres are excellent, and all dogs are chipped, vaccinated, and neutered.

Rescue centres in Spain are known for being brilliant, and they often have a good understanding of the temperament of their dogs. For example, my podenco was described as having a "cat unknown" status, which means they're not good with cats.

If you're considering adopting a podenco, be aware that they may have some challenges with cats, but it's not a deal-breaker. With proper introduction and supervision, it's possible to have a harmonious household.

Animal Angels Global is a reputable organization that facilitated my rescue, and I would absolutely recommend them. They have a Facebook page where you can learn more about their work and the adoption process.

SOS Podenco Rescue was formed in September 2013.

The rescue effort started with a chance encounter between María Casares and Ulrika Schofield, who independently spotted a young, rough coated Podenco named Ray on Facebook awaiting death in a killing station in Valencia.

They joined forces, raised funds, and found a safe residency for Ray, buying him free and giving birth to SOS Podenco Rescue.

Alfonso is a 10 year old male Podenco Andaluz.

He is the most adorable and sweetest boy.

Partnering up with the amazing rescue 'Fundación Benjamin Mehnert' in Spain, we are beyond honoured to introduce to you Alfonso.

He is a part of their rescue efforts.

Chester is a 2-3 year old male Podenco Canario.

He is a lovely looking medium size petite boy about the size and shape of a Whippet.

Chester has a soft short tan coat.

He is very sweet and affectionate with people.

Tranquilo is a 3 year old male Podenco who came to the shelter in Spain with just one eye, but this didn't cause him any problems.

He's a happy, affectionate, and gentle dog who enjoys company and fuss.

Tranquilo is a testament to the resilience of Podencos, a breed often cast aside by humans.

SOS Podenco Rescue, a group that has saved over 300 Podencos since its inception, also highlights the importance of rescue efforts.

The group was formed by Maria Casares and Ulrika Schofield in September 2013, when they banded together to save a Podenco named Ray from a killing station in Valencia.

Their chance encounter and quick action saved Ray's life and sparked a movement to help other Podencos in need.

By supporting organizations like SOS Podenco Rescue, we can make a difference in the lives of dogs like Tranquilo and Benji, who are waiting for a second chance at a happy life.

Tania Schmitt is a dedicated animal lover who has been surrounded by dogs and cats in need of a second chance since her childhood. She's been passionate about animals for as long as she can remember.

Tania adopted two dogs, Fritz and Yankee, in 2018, which opened her eyes to the plight of Spanish Galgos. This experience sparked her mission to help these beautiful dogs.

Tania is newly retired, which has allowed her to join the team of Extraordinary Galgos and Podencos. She's now dedicated to ensuring the safety and well-being of Galgos by giving them a new life in Canada.

Tania has been visiting Spain countless times to help ease the suffering of Galgos. Her work with Extraordinary Galgos and Podencos is extremely rewarding, and she considers all new Canadian dogs a little bit like her own.

Honey is a 5-month-old female Podenco. She's a beautiful little girl with a tan and white coat and a short, easy-to-maintain coat.

Her mum, Grace, is a great example of a Podenco's gentle nature. Honey was found abandoned with 6 pups, which shows how common it is for Podencos to be in need of rescue.

Honey will grow to a medium size, making her a great companion for families or individuals who want a smaller dog.

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Mouse is a 2.5 year old male podenco currently in foster in Salisbury.

He was so timid and scared when we saw him at a rural municipal pound that we work with.

Mouse was hiding at the back of the shelter, showing how fearful he was of his surroundings.

This timid behavior is not uncommon in podencos that have been in shelters for a while.

They can become withdrawn and scared due to the stress of being in a new and unfamiliar environment.

But with patience and care, podencos like Mouse can start to feel more at ease and trust their new surroundings.