I find it very difficult to believe just how many galgas are used simply as breeding machines, producing a litter of pups every year. It also makes me very angry. There are too many galgos in Spain, without breeding more. And yet the authorities turn a blind eye.
Some of the bitches, after having been abandoned by the galguerros, end up living on scrub land, in caves, searching for food to produce the milk for their pups. One such bitch living in a cave with her pups was recently shot dead.
Jara is one bitch who survived, lucky to be found near a refuge and taken in by the volunteers.
Jara is a granny, one of those galgas which are dear to our hearts and who deserve a few years of happiness.
She arrived at the refuge terrified, having been found in a cave with her pups, but gradually she is now less fearful. She is calm and affectionate, she likes the company of the other dogs, and the volunteers.
Jara is a very large bitch, 70cm to the shoulder, 8 years old. Like many of these old bitches which have been used as breeding machines (known as queens), she appreciates the quiet life.
She has a splendid body in spite of her age, but unfortunately the years of producing pups have resulted in a cardiac problem, which means she will be on treatment for the rest of her life.
She is now in a foster home in France, learning to love life.
If you can give her a home, contact L’Europe des Levriers. There is an English page.
UPDATE – Jara has now found her forever family.