SOS Galgos

SOS Galgos was founded in Esplugues de Llobregat (Barcelona) in 2000 by veterinarian Albert Sordé and Anna Clements, and has its roots in their Tres Vet small-animal clinic. It began after the Barcelona greyhound track closed in 1999, when the founders campaigned for the 700 racing greyhounds left living there in deplorable conditions. Since then its focus has been the galgos (Spanish greyhounds) and podencos that are bred in large numbers for hunting and hare coursing in Spain and are often abandoned or mistreated once they are no longer wanted.

The association has volunteers in most Spanish provinces, so it can respond quickly when an abandoned or injured dog is found. Rescued dogs are often malnourished, dehydrated or hurt; they are first taken to a kennel near where they were found, then transferred to SOS Galgos' Refugio-Escuela (shelter and school) in Santa Coloma de Cervelló, on the outskirts of Barcelona, for a full veterinary check, treatment and recovery. SOS Galgos says it has rescued and rehomed more than 3,000 galgos. The Refugio-Escuela also runs educational workshops for children and young people on empathy, respect and responsible pet ownership, and the association works on legislation and public awareness to tackle the root causes: uncontrolled breeding and weak animal-protection laws.

Adopting: dogs go first to their new home as a temporary foster, and the adoption is made final (with the microchip transferred to the adopter) once SOS Galgos is satisfied the dog has settled. The adoption contribution is €450, which covers microchip registration, vaccinations, deworming, blood tests, specialist transport and sterilisation. Visits to the shelter are by appointment only; email info@sosgalgos.org to arrange one.

How to help: adopt, sponsor a rescued galgo, become a paying member, join its Teaming group (€1 a month) or donate by PayPal, card (Stripe) or bank transfer through its official website; companies can give through Benevity. The Spanish association is Assoc. SOS Galgos (NIF G62138961). SOS Galgos USA is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit, so US donors can make tax-deductible gifts by contacting info@sosgalgos.org.