Congratulations Manuel & Pilar!

Instead of traditional wedding favours, they chose to support rescued podencos. Thank you for being part of that — it means the world to us, and to the dogs still waiting for their forever homes.

About Hope for Podencos.

We are a registered charity and a community built by those working towards the same goal — to rescue, rehabilitate, rehome and raise awareness for Podencos of all shapes and sizes.

The Invisible Dogs of Spain.

Podencos are often referred to as 'Invisible Dogs' or 'The Great Forgotten'. They are the most abused dog in Spain — bred to hunt, kept chained in squalid conditions, and not protected by Spanish animal welfare law. But this is something we are trying to change with the Mismos Perros, Mismos Derechos campaign — equal rights for all dogs.

Read the Podencos Story.

Photo of Steve and Sanchos taken by The Faithful Hound Photography

How we work.

Most of our Podencos have been abandoned in the countryside or rescued from Spanish Perreras (dog pounds). Many have suffered abuse and neglect with no veterinary care. But despite everything, most are incredibly resilient and forgiving — and they make the most fantastic companions.

Every Podenco is assessed with other dogs, different people, and cat tested if needed. All are microchipped, vaccinated, vet checked and neutered before they travel. We get to know each one so we can support you both every step of the way.

We handle all passports, travel documentation and transport. We send our Podencos in a martingale collar and 3 strap harness— the safest equipment for them — with a free GPS tracker (subscription required). Full rescue back up is provided for every adoption.

What are Podencos like?

Smart, curious and clownish, with a profound sensitivity to their humans. Their display of love can vary from super velcro cuddly dog to a bit aloof — and being honoured that they spend time in your presence!

Super versatile in all kinds of homes — many thriving with other dogs, cats and children, or equally loving life as an only dog with their chosen human(s). Whether you want to run 5k or amble for an hour each day, there's a Podenco for you. Given the right support, this incredibly adaptable breed can truly turn its hand to almost anything.

How you can help us.

There are so many ways to support our incredible network and the dogs still waiting for their forever homes — every single one makes a difference.

  • Donate

    Whether it's a one off gift or a regular contribution, every donation goes directly towards rescues, vet care, surgery, transport and the ongoing work of our Spanish network. You can also Sponsor a specific pod or contribute to our Resident fund for the dogs who simply need a little more time.

    Donate

  • Share & Follow

    Please FOLLOW us and SHARE our beautiful pods — you have no idea the power of a like, comment or share. It only takes one person to see that post to find a dog their forever home.

    Follow

  • Adopt

    If reading this has made you curious, we'd love you to meet our pods. Every one of them is looking for exactly the kind of person who cares enough to be here. You can also Foster a Podenco with us.

    Adopt

A message From Manuel and Pilar.

Instead of gifts, we wanted to support Hope for Podencos, which helps unprotected hunting dogs in Spain. Our podenco Forrest changed our lives, and we want others like him to have a second chance too.

Subscribe.

Our newsletter is a great way to stay up to date with the Podencos and puppies!