Estonian woman rescues abandoned Spanish hunting dog
An Estonian woman, Maarja Sau, spoke on television about a podenco hunting dog she brought from Spain after it was abandoned once its hunting career ended. She highlighted the harsh treatment such dogs often face in Spain.
Estonian resident Maarja Sau spoke on the program "Terevisioon" about bringing a podenco-breed hunting dog named Moi from Spain to Estonia after it was abandoned once its "hunting career" was over. The dog was found in critical condition, having nearly died from heat stroke, and was rescued by one of the animal rescue organizations operating in Spain.
According to Sau, Moi is about three years old and originally from Spain, where podenco and galgo hunting dogs often face a grim fate. She said these animals are treated very cruelly — abandoned and subjected to all manner of terrible treatment, since in practice they are regarded merely as hunting equipment.
Rescue is rare
Sau explained that most dogs abandoned in Spain are never rescued, and their fate remains unknown. Still, numerous organizations in the country work to give as many animals as possible a chance. Dogs are taken hunting from a very young age, and if an animal goes missing, it is often not searched for. Andalusian podencos mainly hunt hares across difficult rocky and sandy terrain. Sau added it would be unfair to claim that all hunters abandon their dogs.
An active, affectionate breed
Sau noted that podencos are very active dogs with a large reserve of energy and a genuine hunting temperament. She described Moi as a very sweet dog that enjoys long walks in the forest, suited to an active owner.
Her decision to take in a dog from Spain came after her previous pet died last year. She wanted to give a chance to a dog that had been less fortunate in life, an idea inspired by a friend who had also adopted a podenco from a Spanish shelter. Sau said such a dog makes a great companion for hikes and shared activities, adding that Moi is not particularly bothered by cold weather.
