Galgos
The exploited and
tortured dog breed
Let me start with this thought:
From the perspective of an Aiderbichler (written by Gisela Pschenitschnig)
(…) We all need life around us that grows and blossoms and thrives. We all want to grow, flourish and thrive. And by coming to terms with what makes us who we are and by realising our role and responsibility in this world, we can initiate a change of direction. Everything is interdependent, everything is indivisible.
"To create a more peaceful world, you need a peaceful mind and a peaceful heart." (...) - Dalai Lama
The dying Galgos give a concert
When I look at the many photos of tortured, emaciated, abused and seriously injured greyhounds, I feel a cold shiver run down my spine. And I ask myself what humans, who see themselves as the crowning glory of creation, are actually capable of. What is going on in people who are capable of such atrocities against compassionate living beings? I have learnt from Michael Aufhauser never to lift a finger and pass judgement. So I will try in my own way to reach the heart and brain axis of the readers. Help give the Galgos a voice. Anything else is inhumane and morally indefensible.
Originally, the Galgo was bred as a hunting dog for the Spanish nobility. Today, Galgos are bred en masse so that a “bad” hunting dog can be immediately replaced by a new one. Hunting is a popular sport in Spain. Hunting dogs of all breeds are kept in large packs under the most miserable conditions, with many leading a sad existence on a chain or in dark sheds. Galgos are used to be thrown away, hanged or gassed if they fail.
Mass rearing costs a lot of money and so the dogs are kept in poor conditions. Those that fail to perform are sorted out and killed: they are hanged, tied up without food or water and left to fend for themselves.
Tradition allows unfit Galgos to be hanged. The animals are hung just above the ground. Their little paws try to find a hold on the ground but cannot reach it. The dogs wriggle and struggle for air. Playing the piano, the galgos glide to their certain death.
"If you want to hear the truth, you should first ask whether you can bear it." - Ernst R. Hauschka
Gut Aiderbichl gives the galgos a voice
We would like to give as many galgos as possible a second chance, get them out of Spain and give them a bruise-free forever home at Gut Aiderbichl. People must not stop giving galgos a public and powerful voice. This is the only way to prevent future animal suffering.
Klaus Spielbüchler, Aiderbichler employee, was also present at the Galgo march in Cologne with some of his colleagues. (…) “My favourite thing about the dogs is the search for physical contact. If my time allows, I sit down with the dogs. Soon they are sitting or lying to my right and left. Their head on my thigh, or their nose hidden between my body and upper arm. I am always amazed at the sleeping behaviour of the Galgos. They curl up small and sleep like this – preferably under the blanket” (…) – Klaus Spielbüchler.
Arce - a Galgo from Cordoba in Henndorf
Arce has so much joie de vivre and love for people that it’s hard to believe what bad things he has experienced. When it’s cold, Arce wears a warm coat and goes for long walks with his carer. A “Hello Arce” is enough to make him want to take a running start and run towards me, and he is happy when you notice him and speak to him. He has shed all pain and negativity.
Animals are great at forgiving. For people who love animals, it is often incredible how diplomatically they treat people who mean well by them.
Look and help, don’t remain silent. There is a lot to do, sincerely,
Your Gisela
"Every obstacle must be met with perseverance and a gentle voice." - Thomas Jefferson third American president 1743-1826
