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Welcome back to this week’s edition of Sustainable Tails! St. Patrick’s Day is now in the books, but we’ll be exploring a few Irish pet topics. We are diving into famous dog breeds hailing from Ireland, cats and Irish folklore, and Leona. Who is Leona you may ask? Keep reading to find out how she has kept herself entertained throughout this past century. Just kick back and enjoy what we have for you this week!
Famous Dog Breeds Originating From Ireland
Ireland is not only known for its stunning landscapes and rich history but also for its iconic dog breeds that have captured the hearts of dog lovers worldwide. Among the most famous breeds hailing from the Emerald Isle is the Irish Wolfhound, a gentle giant known for its impressive size and noble demeanor. Originally bred for hunting wolves and other large game, the Irish Wolfhound is one of the tallest dog breeds in the world, standing tall with a commanding presence.
Another beloved Irish breed is the Irish Setter, known for its stunning red coat and friendly disposition. Irish Setters are popular as family pets and are cherished for their playful nature and affectionate personality. Their striking appearance and joyful demeanor make them a favorite among dog enthusiasts.
The Irish Terrier is another notable breed from Ireland, known for its fiery red coat and spirited personality. Originally bred for hunting and vermin control, Irish Terriers are small to medium-sized dogs with a fearless attitude and a strong prey drive.
The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is a charming breed with a distinctive wheaten-colored coat. Known for their friendly and affectionate nature, Wheaten Terriers are popular as family pets and excel in activities like agility and obedience.
Finally, the Irish Water Spaniel is a unique breed known for its curly, water-resistant coat and excellent swimming abilities. Bred for retrieving game from water, the Irish Water Spaniel is a versatile and intelligent breed that excels in various canine sports and activities.
These iconic Irish dog breeds not only showcase the country's rich history and heritage but also serve as beloved companions to countless families around the world.
Doggone Delights
The Cu Sith, a creature from Irish folklore, is a mythical dog with shaggy fur and glowing red eyes, known for its eerie howl. Legend has it that this spectral hound roams the countryside, appearing to escort the souls of the deceased to the afterlife. Hearing the Cu Sith's howl on the night of Samhain, the ancient Celtic festival, is believed to foretell death in the household. To protect against the Cu Sith's influence, people would leave out offerings of food and drink. This legendary creature adds a spooky and intriguing element to Irish folklore, highlighting the deep-rooted beliefs of the culture.
Cats and Irish Folklore
Cats have long been a part of Irish folklore and mythology, adding a touch of mystery and magic to the rich tapestry of Irish storytelling. In Celtic mythology, cats were often associated with the supernatural, believed to possess powers beyond those of ordinary felines.
One of the most well-known figures from Irish folklore is the Cat Sidhe, a fairy creature that resembles a large black cat with a white spot on its chest. According to legend, the Cat Sidhe was feared by the people of Ireland, as it was believed to have the ability to steal a person's soul. To ward off the Cat Sidhe, people would leave offerings of milk outside their homes, hoping to appease the creature and protect their souls.
Cats were also associated with the goddess Brigid, a figure from Irish mythology associated with fertility, healing, and poetry. Brigid was said to have a companion cat, which was believed to bring good fortune to those who treated it with kindness and respect.
In addition to their mystical powers, cats were also seen as protectors of homes and families in Irish folklore. It was believed that a cat's presence in a home could ward off evil spirits and bring good luck to the inhabitants.
Overall, cats have played a fascinating and important role in Irish folklore and mythology, adding an element of magic and mystery to the stories of old. Their presence in these tales serves as a testament to the enduring fascination and admiration that cats have inspired throughout history.
Pet Poem Place
To Tim — An Irish Terrier
O jewel of my heart, I sing your praise,
Though you who are, alas! of middle age
Have never been to school, and cannot read
The weary printed page.
I sing your eyes, two pools in shadowed streams,
Where your soul shines in depths of sunny brown,
Alertly raised to read my every mood
Or thoughtfully cast down.
I sing the little nose, so glossy wet,
The well-trained sentry to your eager mind,
So swift to catch the delicate, glad scent
Of rabbits on the wind.
Ah, fair to me your wheaten-colored coat,
And fair the darker velvet of your ear,
Ragged and scarred with old hostilities
That never taught you fear.
But O! your heart, where my unworthiness
Is made perfection by love's alchemy;
How often does your doghood's faith cry shame
To my inconstancy.
At last I know the hunter Death will come
And whistle low the call you must obey.
So you will leave me, comrade of my heart,
To take a lonely way.
Some tell me, Tim, we shall not meet again,
But for their Loveless Logic need we care? --
If I should win to Heav'n's gate I know
You will be waiting there.
Leona - The Ghost Dog Of The Holly Hotel
The Holly Hotel, originally built in 1891 in Michigan, has a long and storied history, and Leona is said to be one of its most enduring spirits. Leona was the beloved pet of former Holly Hotel owner Mr. Hirst. Tragically, Leona met her untimely demise under mysterious circumstances, and her spirit is said to linger in the hotel to this day.
Visitors to the Holly Hotel have reported hearing the sound of paws padding along the hallway, something brushing up against people’s legs, as well as the faint barking of a dog. Some have even claimed to have seen a ghostly figure, a small dog resembling a rat terrier, roaming the premises. Leona is said to be a friendly and playful spirit, often appearing to guests in moments of quiet reflection.
The legend of Leona adds an eerie yet charming element to the Holly Hotel's atmosphere, drawing visitors from near and far who are eager to catch a glimpse of the hotel's famous ghost dog, among many other “spirits” that call this hotel home. Whether or not one believes in the supernatural, the story of Leona serves as a reminder of the hotel's rich history and the many stories it holds within its walls.
Just For Fun
Well, that’s a wrap for this week. Please be sure to share this growing community of pet lovers from around the world with your friends and family. We send you an unobtrusive email once a week right to your mailbox. That’s all there is to it! We welcome any and all input from all of our subscribers. Send us topics you’d love to know more about, or just drop a line to say hello. There are exciting things coming as Sustainable Tails grows in popularity!
Sustainable Tails is dedicated to helping you create a harmonious and eco-friendly life for you and your pets. By embracing zero-waste and pet-friendly grooming products and sustainably exploring the outdoors together, you're not only enhancing the well-being of your furry companions but also contributing to a healthier planet.
Thank you for joining us on this weeks adventure. Continue to spread the word on what we are doing here, and always know your comments and participation in our community are welcomed with open paws. We’ll see you right here next week, so continue making sustainable choices and cherishing each and every day with your beloved pets!
Joshua McCarty
Founder, Sustainable Tails
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