Torteval Irish Wolfhounds

Several months after Mary Jane Fox's beloved Deirdre died in June 2004, she found Emma, who had been rescued from very bad circumstances. Mary Jane knew as soon as she saw her that they were destined for each other.

Emma was a small (30" tall), but big-boned wolfhound who was found living outside in very poor conditions at the home of someone who trades in dogs and who was advertising her for sale as a brood bitch. It was obvious that she had recently had puppies, and a prospective purchaser, appalled by her situation, reported the trader to the local SPCA. Emma was taken into rescue by Hannah Fitzgerald; the Irish Wolfhound Club of Ireland paid for her vaccinations, spaying and medical treatment. Because she was so fearful of people Mary Jane had to visit her five times before it was felt that she was ready to move in with her.

The right side of Emma's face was badly damaged from a high impact blow - her teeth were broken, and her ear lay on top of her head. As her neck and shoulder were fine, it was thought the damage was unlikely to have been the result of a car accident - more likely, she was battered with an implement such as a shovel.

Under Mary Jane's love and care Emma blossomed, and soon looked like a "real" wolfhound. Mary Jane had started a sanctuary for rescued greyhounds at her home in Co. Offaly, and Emma fitted in beautifully with all of them. She was a lovely girl, a most loyal companion, and almost completely overcome her fear of people.