Russian Wolfhound

Tuesday, March 12, 2019

I’ve always admired this breed. Wolfhounds are sight hounds, fast, very tough hunters, and gorgeous. These dogs might be fairly common in the eastern U.S. but here in the west are rare. Long ago, I lived in the midwest and knew a fellow who had a pair of Wolfhounds. Since then, I’ve seen this breed only televised in all-breed competitions.

Many years ago, while researching the work of an Oregon artist, Richard Murry, whose portraits of animals interested me, I discovered prints of his painting of a Russian Wolfhound. I purchased one, had it framed, and enjoyed it. A number of years later, I contacted the artist who said his original Wolfhound painting was available. Since then, it’s been hanging in my home.

Here in the west folks, including me, generally prefer herding style dogs. I’ve rescued several in the past and recently. They’re essential to me. And my secret self that’s touched by the power of art has me loving and sharing life with a dreamy, majestic Wolfhound.

Yesterday, I handed out food samples at Costco. When a lady paused with a big bag of dog food in her cart, I asked what kind of dog she has. She replied with a slight accent, “I have two Russian Wolfhounds here, and also, two others still in Russia.” That got a conversation going!

It amazes me when obscure dots stumble into connecting. Her Wolfhounds run on her 40 acres in Central Oregon, and also with her horses. She explained that her dogs still in Russia are champions and also public figures. I described Richard’s painting and will send her a photo. Meanwhile, maybe ahead, I’ll have an opportunity to see and photograph her dogs. Sighting live and active Wolfhounds in a natural setting would be a gift.

Dear Readers, The powers of the Universe may ultimately connect us all. Diana