As Saint Patrick's Day approaches, I was thinking about the link between greyhounds and the Fair Isles and thought we'd share a little history. This may not be new information for people who share their lives with greyhounds, but for others, it might be some fun information. It might also explain a bit about our girls.
Long ago, greyhounds, or at least their predescessors, were worshipped in ancient Egypt. The only thing celebrated in an Egyptian family's life more than the birth of a litter of greyhound puppies was the birth of a son. The dogs were worshipped there and their hunting skills were very valuable.
In the Middle Ages, greyhounds had finally arrived in Europe. At one point, they became almost extinct because of the harsh conditions during the plague, but were saved by priests in Ireland who took the dogs into a monastary and cared for them, as well as breeding them for the nobility. The greyhound is the only breed of dog specifically mentioned in the Bible. I don't know if that had something to do with why they were deemed worthy of saving or not, but I can say that I'm glad they decided to do so.
Soon, greyhounds became the companions of kings and nobility. Commoners caught with the dogs could be killed for breaking the law at one point, or sometimes their dogs were killed or maimed. If a commoner killed a greyhound, the punishment also was death. At one point, greyhounds were so popular that everyone brought them to church with them. Presumably because there were so many, a rule was passed by the church that only greyhounds with an "angel kiss" which is a small spot on the head of some particolored greyhounds could enter the church. White and particolored dogs could only be owned by nobility and royalty. Commoners could have the solid colored and darker colored hounds, but still were not allowed to hunt with them. There is even a period in history known as The Greyhound Wars.
There is a lot more history to greyhounds than that, but I thought it would be fun to share that little tidbit here as we think about Saint Patrick's Day. I don't drink, but if I did, I'd drink a toast to those who spared my favorite breed.
I think the history may explain why greyhounds today still have a sense of regality to them. I know that our current girls all believe they are queens and princesses. Since they still have the inborn desire to hunt, I'm sure they still feel the sense of entitlement that comes from being born the companions of kings. Fortunately for me, they are simple rulers with few demands. Excuse me now while I go fluff some dog beds and prepare some kibble fit for royalty!
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