Sofia

Dog name: Sofia       Nicknames:

History: Sofia is a beautiful senior Galga who was handed into Fundación Benjamín Mehnert in Seville by her Galguero on 30 June 2026.

UK arrival date: 12/09/26

Breed: Galga

Colour: Sand

DOB: 10/07/2015

Height: 62 cm

Weight: 22.9 kg

Neutered: Yes

Mediterranean disease: Clear

Health condition: Sofia is underweight and needs to build her strength and muscle condition gradually. She has also been examined by a vet for her skin irritation. Encouragingly, fur is beginning to grow back on the affected areas and her skin is improving. She currently receives evening primrose oil for her skin and Nutraquin for joint support.

Character: Considering the years of neglect and punishment Sofia has endured, her gentle and trusting nature is remarkable. Sofia is a very quiet, sweet girl who was understandably nervous and tired when she first arrived. She can be wary of unfamiliar people and situations, particularly when somebody approaches her directly, but she recovers well and takes reassurance from the other dogs in her foster home. Given time and space, her curiosity begins to overcome her nerves and she will approach for affection.

She enjoys knowing that her people are nearby. She may get up to look for them before happily returning to her bed. Sofia has quickly begun learning the household routine and now appears at the bedroom door in the morning with the resident dogs, wagging her tail. She is clean in the house, shows no guarding or destructive behaviour and settles well. Sofia lives happily alongside the resident dogs, one of whom is helping her learn the routines of home life. Sofia loves going for walks and is improving on the lead with every outing. She is only a little wary of loud traffic, such as large tractors, and will take a step back rather than panic. She has shown no reactive behaviour towards other dogs and has shown little interest in smaller dogs. She has, however, reacted with interest to squirrels and deer, so her prey drive is currently considered medium. Sofia also travels well in the car and is happy to lie down and snooze during journeys.

Likes: Gentle company, resting in a comfortable bed, knowing her people are nearby, mealtimes, walks and being with other dogs. She is beginning to enjoy affection as her confidence grows.

Dislikes: Wary of unfamiliar people approaching her directly and can be cautious around loud vehicles such as tractors. She is not bothered by ordinary household sounds such as the vacuum cleaner.

Special talents: Bravery, gentleness and learning the household routine remarkably quickly.

Specific needs: Sofia needs a calm, patient home where she can continue building confidence at her own pace. She should not be pressured into interacting with unfamiliar people and will benefit from adopters who allow her to approach when she feels ready. She also needs good-quality, high-protein food, appropriate supplements and gentle, gradually increased exercise to help her gain healthy weight and rebuild her muscle strength. Her skin condition should continue to be monitored, following veterinary advice. A settled routine and a low-stress environment will be important for her recovery. Sofia appears to gain confidence from the company of calm resident dogs, so a compatible dog in her new home may be beneficial.

Cat workable: Not yet tested

How long they can be left for: Sofia’s foster carers have gradually left her for up to 15 minutes while remaining nearby in the garden. She stayed settled in her bed and was pleased to see them when they returned.

Current area: North Walsham, Norfolk