World War II greatly diminished the number of Irish wolfhounds, because most breeding ceased.
The largest breed of dog, the Irish wolfhound is mentioned in Irish laws predating Christianity, and ownership of this breed was once the exclusive privilege of kings and nobility. Whether you wish to adopt the dog or find a good home for one you own, remember that this gentle giant is a hunter that requires land to gallop in as well as human companionship.
What Rescue Groups Do
There's a rescue group somewhere in the country for every breed of dog. Foster owners love their breeds and will cover the expenses and take the time to care for a dog in need. Rescue groups are charitable nonprofits interested in protecting their charges and helping them find their way into safe environments and suitable families. Aside from feeding the wolfhounds, foster owners take care of their medical needs, including surgeries if needed. They have the dogs tested for temperament to assess the type of environment they are best suited to and ensure that they have exercise as well as food and affection.
Adoption
If you wish to adopt an Irish wolfhound or any other fostered breed, you have to go though an adoption process set up and maintained by the rescue group. Rescuers are interested in finding good homes for these dogs and pay for spaying and neutering, shots, temperament testing, any needed medical care and of course food. Fees range from over $400 to nearly $1,000, depending on prior expenses, but most lie somewhere in between. More than money is involved, however. If the fit isn't right, the dog won't be adopted out.
Irish Wolfhound Rescue Groups
Desert Irish Wolfhound Association
Rescue Coordinator, Karen Fjerkenstad 480-807-8573
Rocky Mountain Irish Wolfhound Association
Hotline 303-694-7426 Tom Gilliland 303-816-0370
Southern Irish Wolfhound Rescue and Adoption
Call 937-845-9135 to request a packet.
Great Lakes Irish Wolfhound Association
Rescue Contact Information, Jennifer Ahrens 618-277-4219
Irish Wolfhound Association of the Mid-South
Rescue Coordinator, 336-685-4464
Irish Wolfhound Association of the Greater Smoky Mountains Rescue Coordinator, Cindy Winters 865 579-0734
North Texas Irish Wolfhound Club
Cherry Rolle 817-516-0994
Adopting or Seeking Placement
Contact an Irish wolfhound organization near you to adopt a mature pet or find a foster family for an Irish wolfhound you can no longer care for. If there is no organization nearby, one of the larger groups may be able to put you in contact with an individual close by who can assist you.
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