Breed All About It Season 5 Episode 5 Irish Wolf Hound
- TVG
- November 20, 2000
- 22 min
Breed All About It is an animal documentary series that explores the different breeds of cats and dogs and provides viewers with a comprehensive insight into their characteristics, origins, and breed-specific needs. Season 5 episode 5 is dedicated to one of the largest dog breeds in the world – the Irish Wolfhound.
The episode starts by tracing centuries of Irish Wolfhound history. The breed's origins date back to the ancient Celts, where they were primarily used for hunting big game, including elk, boars, and wolves. Fast forward to the 19th century, where the Irish Wolfhound was on the brink of extinction until a group of dog enthusiasts led by Captain Graham set out to revive the breed's bloodline. Today, the Irish Wolfhound is a sought-after breed for its noble stature, calm temperament, and gentle nature.
The program then shifts to the contemporary world, where we get a glimpse of the lives of several Irish Wolfhound owners. One such owner is Connie Kelley, a breeder who runs a kennel out of her home in Arizona. She provides valuable insights into the breed's health challenges, exercise requirements, and dietary needs. It's interesting to note that despite their large size, Irish Wolfhounds are prone to some of the same health issues as smaller dogs, such as hip dysplasia and bloat.
The episode also features Paige West, another Wolfhound owner who shares her experiences volunteering with the breed's rescue organization. Paige recounts several heartwarming rescue stories, including that of Winston, a Wolfhound that had been abandoned by his previous owners and left to fend for himself. Paige, along with the rescue organization, worked tirelessly to nurse Winston back to health and find him a loving forever home.
Breed All About It also explores the Irish Wolfhound's versatility as a working dog. The breed's gentle nature makes it well-suited for therapy work, where they provide comfort and companionship to sick and elderly patients. We meet Patty, a Wolfhound therapy dog who visits hospitals and nursing homes, bringing smiles to countless patients. The Irish Wolfhound is also popular in the show ring, where they showcase their impressive size and graceful movements.
Throughout the episode, viewers are treated to stunning visuals of the breed in action. From watching Irish Wolfhounds sprint across open fields to seeing them gently interact with children, it's clear that this breed is truly magnificent. We also get a glimpse of the breed's unique grooming requirements, which include frequent brushing to maintain their thick, lustrous coats.
The show culminates with a group of Irish Wolfhound enthusiasts gathering for a meetup in Arizona. The event includes several activities, such as lure coursing, where the dogs chase mechanical prey across a field, as well as a costume contest, where the dogs are dressed up in creative costumes. The meetup is an excellent example of the tight-knit community of Irish Wolfhound owners and breeders who share a passion for this amazing breed.
Breed All About It season 5 episode 5 is a must-watch for any dog lover, especially those interested in large and noble breeds. This episode provides a fascinating look into the history, health, and characteristics of the Irish Wolfhound, as well as the unique bond between owners and their beloved pets.