My next several blog posts will be from my time in Spain.  For those of you who might not know, I found out about a dog photography workshop last year that was going to be held just outside of Barcelona.  It was appropriately named 'Barkelona!' I have a lot of photos to share including (believe it or not) some that don't include dogs!  ha!  However, I feel like I need to start by sharing a story about two dogs Luc and Ovi that we met during our first photo shoot.

I'd not heard of this breed prior to this trip.  They are Galgos or Spanish Greyhounds.  Here is some information I found on them on vetstreet.com for anyone looking to learn more about the breed or considering adoption.  They have a serious, reserved temperament and can be shy in the presence of people they doesn’t know. They are  affectionate toward his family and gentle with young children.  In the home, they are quiet, but when they are hunting they turn into a lively, energetic dog.

A height of 24 to 27.5 inches gives him easy access to kitchen counters, so don’t leave food out where he can get to it. He will have no qualms about stealing it.  Give a Spanish Greyhound regular exercise to keep him conditioned. He’s an ace competitor in lure coursing, a sport that involves chasing a mechanically operated artificial lure.

Galgo Espanols respond well to positive reinforcement techniques, especially food rewards. If you are firm, fair, and provide the right motivation, they learn quickly and easily. If you don’t, well, this is a big dog that can do a lot of damage untrained and left to his own devices.  Looking for a dog with an easy-care coat? The Spanish Greyhound has you covered. Weekly brushing of his smooth, shorthaired coat (the majority of Galgos have a smooth coat) and regular nail trimming and ear cleaning are all he needs to stay clean and in good condition.  The Galgo Español loves his family and should live indoors with them, preferably with access to furniture or soft bedding.  I love this last part:  gotta love someone who recommends letting the dog on the furniture. :)

Unfortunately, most of these dogs in Spain are considered worthless and are treated horribly and tortured to death.  If you want to google them and read more about them, please proceed with caution. Their story is unfathomable.  Rescue groups from across the world have stepped in and are trying to change the plight of these dogs.

During our first photo session, we photographed Luc and Ovi, two puppies that were rescued when their pregnant mother was taken to a shelter.  They were all puppy and they will live out their lives knowing what human love and affection is.  Yay for Luc and Ovi!!  Did I mention that they were puppies??  That has something to do with the fact that I'm only posting photos of Luc! :) :)

#barkelona