A blind hunting dog, abandoned and injured, has become a symbol for animal rights protests across the UK and Spain, raising awareness for their plight.
This heartbreaking story has sparked a wave of protests. Over 100 animal rights advocates are set to gather at Glasgow Green on February 1. They want to raise awareness about the suffering of dogs like Abby. Thankfully, Abby has found a second chance at life in Scotland.
Protests are also happening in other UK cities like Manchester and London. Activists are marching to the Spanish embassy, calling for an end to hunting with dogs in Spain. This cruel practice often involves breeds like Podenco and Galgos.
Abby is now the face of this campaign. After being abandoned for not being able to work, she underwent six months of surgeries and rehabilitation. Now, she enjoys life and even climbed Conic Hill by Loch Lomond. She was also voted the face of the Dog Lover Show in 2022.
February 1 marks the end of the hunting season in Spain. Many dogs deemed unfit for hunting are cruelly discarded. The treatment of these dogs is often horrific, and the methods used to kill them are designed to prolong their suffering.
In 2023, Spain’s Parliament excluded hunting dogs from new animal welfare laws. This led to the formation of Free Spanish Hounds, a UK-based group that supports Spanish advocacy efforts.
The protests in the UK are part of a larger movement. Similar demonstrations are happening in 48 cities across Spain and 29 other European cities. They aim to end this barbaric practice.
Teresa Rodriguez, who organizes international protests, said they want to raise global awareness. They hope to encourage visitors to Spain to protest and create diplomatic pressure on the Spanish government. Their efforts have already led to calls for action from European politicians.
Adva Shimshy, a founder of Free Spanish Hounds, emphasized their commitment to being the voice for these dogs. They will continue to protest until the Spanish government takes action to protect them. Together, they strive for a future free from cruelty and neglect.