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Galga Bambi (Brandy)

Having said farewell to our dear Perdita
(Purdy to her friends) in January 2022 –
there was a hole in our hearts which
needed to be filled plus an empty dog bed
looking for a new resident! Both of these
were quickly taken by a three year old
fawn galga called Brandy. I must confess
to having a ‘thing’ about names and the
name Brandy didn’t appeal so she has
become Bambi. This suits her to a ‘T’ from
her colouring - to her size and her ability
to leap from sofa to sofa with grace, ease
and speed. Having such a youngster joining
our existing pack of five is a bit of a
shock to the system as four of the other
hounds are over ten years old. Warrick the elder statesman – also originally from
Galgos del Sol back in 2012 is now a teenager as he turned thirteen on 12 February
2022. Bambi was found on the streets of Spain by Tina and her volunteers back in
August 2020 at just 18 months old. Given her background she has fitted into home
life really well. She has a few things to learn but being a galga – she is intelligent and
quick to respond. We may need to consult our Spanish phrase book for the translation
of ‘gently’ as treats are snatched and devoured with alacrity – but like so many others
with pasts best put behind them, treats are a much prized reward for good behaviour
and a new, tasty experience. To show her appreciation, Bambi showers us with ‘kisses’.
She loves her meals, sleeps through the night and is virtually housetrained. Unlike
many English and Irish greyhounds, galgos are very good at sitting and Bambi does
exactly this, looking like a porcelain figurine.

Our ‘new girl’ has been here just over four weeks now and has taken on where Purdy
left off in squirrel watching with lurcher pal Lucas (from the dog pound). Neither
of these has the stealth and patience that Purdy exhibited but such is the enthusiasm
of youth! ‘Watching’ is an understatement to put it mildly, as racing down the garden
at breakneck speed with bark chippings flying every-
where is probably a more apt description. Bambi has
also discovered squeaky toys much to Dana’s chagrin
but to give Dana her due, she just watches this young
whippersnapper tossing ‘her’ toys about and squeaking
them with great excitement. Having had 22 pups in her
time, Dana is well used to the exuberance of youth.
However, like all dogs, they never put their toys away
and picking up around two dozen (yes you read that
correctly) is a feat in itself.

So if you have a hole in your life to fill with a canine
companion, maybe consider a galgo? Check out the
Greyhounds In Need website as there are dogs and
bitches of various colours, ages and temperaments all
looking for a loving, happy and secure future….no more
than each deserves.

Judy Zatonski – February 2022
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