Through the Eyes of a Greyhound E-Book

Ettore Trestelle

• Herausgeber: Youcanprint
• Kategorie: Religion und Spiritualität
• Sprache: Englisch

Veröffentlichungsjahr: 2024

Beschreibung

"Through the Eyes of a Greyhound" is a heartfelt true story of healing and rebirth through the bond with an abandoned Spanish greyhound, Thiago. During the Covid-19 pandemic, Ettore, struggling through a dark phase of his life, finds solace in the dog's loving gaze. This encounter changes both their lives and leads Ettore to meet Margot, a special woman. The book weaves together travels, personal challenges, and the harsh realities faced by Spanish greyhounds, urging readers to reflect on the need for greater awareness and action. Solo per gli occhi di un galgo è una toccante storia vera di guarigione e rinascita grazie al legame con un levriero spagnolo abbandonato, Thiago. Durante la pandemia di Covid-19, Ettore, in una fase buia della sua vita, trova conforto nello sguardo amorevole del cane che decide di adottare. Questo incontro trasforma entrambi, portando Ettore anche a incontrare Margot, una donna speciale. Il libro intreccia viaggi, sfide personali e la drammatica realtà dei levrieri spagnoli, invitando a riflettere sull'urgenza di sensibilizzazione e cambiamento.

Leseprobe

Contents

Titolo

Diritto d'autore

Valencia

The Greyhounds That Are Killed

Meeting with Paolo and Yana

Covid in Italy, Pandemic and Work

The Turning Point

The History of Greyhounds and February 1

The Anniversary and the Encounter with Csilla

The Docufilm “Yo Galgo” and the Video “Febrero”

The Decision to Adopt a Galgo

Awareness Takes Hold

Cacique, (the Village Chief)

The First Encounter with Thiago (Ex Cacique)

Gaetano, Angel Falls, and Machu Picchu in Peru

The Last Visit to Thiago

Carcassonne, Friends, Ariel, Cathars, and Pyrenees

Spain

Journey to Italy with Thiago

Finally Home

Living Together

Margot

September, My Birthday

Margot and Pizza Together

Thiago joins the company

A Friend Enters the House of Tiptoe

Christmas

The Joy of Surrender

Indice

Guide

Copertina

Indice

Start

Ettore Trestelle

THROUGH THE EYES OF A GREYHOUND

How an abandoned Spanish greyhound changed my life

Title| THROUGH THE EYES OF A GREYHOUND

Autor | Ettore Trestelle

ISBN | 9791222789569

© 2024 - All rights reserved to the Author.

This work is published directly by the Author through the Youcanprint self-publishing platform, and the Author holds exclusive rights to it. No part of this book may be reproduced without the prior consent of the Author."

Youcanprint

Via Marco Biagi 6, 73100 Lecce

www.youcanprint.it

[email protected]

Preface:

"Through the Eyes of a Greyhound"

is the captivating reflection of a passionate, adventurous, and inspired man narrating the true story of his adopted galgo.

In the silence of their runs, amid the dust of ancient sunscorched trails and along the dirt roads of Spain, the narrative unfolds—the testimonials of fast hearts with uncertain destinies. This book, written by Ettore Trestelle, speaks of a fortunate adoption and leaves a subtle trace that encourages the attentive reader to embark on a profound journey into the world of galgos, those noble greyhounds who, despite their unmatched grace, often face a tragic fate.

The privilege of adopting one of these unfortunate dogs is an experience that has profoundly transformed the author, forging a strong bond never known before. With his firsthand account, Ettore Trestelle, fueled by passion and compassion, takes us into the intricate affairs of galgos, often victims of cruelty. When the services of these affectionate greyhounds are no longer required, many of them confront a cruel fate—abandoned in the countryside or brutally suppressed through the gruesome tradition of "el rito del pianista," the hanging of the dog just above the ground, resulting in a slow, agonising death.

In Spain, as elsewhere in the world, there are courageous and determined associations fighting to save these innocent companions. Their commitment serves as a beacon of hope in the battle against a scourge deeply rooted in human cruelty.

Trestelle's narrative is not only a call for awareness but also a tribute to organizations tirelessly working to end this injustice. The story of galgos is not confined to Spanish lands; it extends everywhere, from Irish to Argentine greyhounds, and even those in South Africa, as well as in many other parts of the world where such breeds are raised. Their extraordinary ability to run fast seems paradoxically to be their curse, their worst flaw, as they are exploited, mistreated, and subjected to continuous inhumane training solely for the entertainment or profit of a few. In this book, the author helps us understand the authentic qualities of this breed and invites us to reflect on our responsibility towards such vulnerable creatures, urging us to join the fight to end an injustice that cannot be ignored. It is an appeal to compassion and awareness, with the hope that, one day, the fast hearts of galgos can beat free, far from the chains of abuse and abandonment.

The narrative is often lightened by Trestelle’s travel accounts. The author expresses himself with captivating style, establishing a natural empathy with the reader. His words paint vivid and emotional pictures, transporting us to distant worlds and revealing the deepest nuances of human emotions. Over the centuries, the bond between man and greyhound has been strengthened by the trials of hunting-these elegant dogs have demonstrated their extraordinary ability to track and capture prey with grace and speed. But it is in the quiet of the domestic hearth that the true qualities of this breed emerge. The ability to adapt to any situation is a distinctive trait of greyhounds. From the vast plateaus to the tranquility of an apartment, the galgo effortlessly transforms from a runner to a home companion. Its majestic appearance can deceive those unfamiliar with its affectionate and loving nature.

When one decides to share their life with a greyhound, they encounter an extraordinary companion. Total dedication to the owner is evident in every movement, in every gaze. These dogs, often mistreated and neglected in their past, can quickly recover and once again give unconditional love and trust. Through the story of galgos, Trestelle addresses universal themes such as love, loss, hope, and resilience. The reader is invited to reflect on their own life and the connections formed with the world around them.

The silent and stoic endurance of pain is a tribute to the inner strength of this canine breed. Despite the trials they may have faced, greyhounds maintain a kind heart and an affectionate soul. This resilience is a valuable lesson for those privileged to call a greyhound their "friend." In a hectic and often chaotic world, the calm presence of a greyhound can brings serenity and balance to the home and life of those who welcome them. Whether it's a long afternoon spent on a walk or a lazy afternoon on the living room couch, the connection between man and greyhound is a unique, rare, and fulfilling experience.

This book explores, through a fortunate adoption that will change the author's life, the multiple facets of the extraordinary relationship between man and greyhound, seeking to shed light on the beauty and complexity of a connection that goes beyond appearances, embracing and grasping the depth of the soul of a four-legged companion that has much to offer to those willing to look deep within. In ‘Through the Eyes of a Greyhound” the author manages to capture the essence of these extraordinary dogs, turning the reading into an engaging and touching experience.

Ettore Trestelle not only gives us a compelling work but also leaves us with a legacy of beauty and wisdom. "Through the Eyes of a Greyhound" is ultimately an ode to love for every form of life.

Guido Boletti, painter, plastic artist

With all my heart, I wish to express my deep gratitude to Martin Notley and David Smith for the invaluable work they did in reviewing my book. Their patience and dedication, as they carefully examined each word, helped make the message resonate even more clearly and profoundly with those who share a special sensitivity toward these extraordinary creatures. Their generosity and the precious time they dedicated have further enriched this project, making it even more meaningful. I cannot help but feel forever immensely grateful.

Ettore

To Irma my mother and Laura (Margot) my wife

who made this adventure possible

Chapter 1

Valencia

Valencia, February 7, 2018,

10:00 AM: I am sitting outside Lleon Bar within the Municipal Market Plaza Redonda, located in El Carmen, a district in the old part of the capital of the Comunidad Valenciana. I am treating myself to a latte, a brioche, and a delightful Spanish version of the "pastel de nata," as they call their typical and famous cream pastry in Portugal. It's not a good day for me; that's why I've decided not to go to the Cevisama Fair this morning but to stay in Valencia. I have been coming to Spain for years for this important ceramic and tile industry fair, but this morning I received a call from Italy, from my office, telling me that my main client, an English wholesaler, has decided to change supplier. Therefore, after an initial and profound feeling of discomfort never experienced before, i decided to take a day just for myself, to turn this trade fair day into a day of leisure. Every year, I come to Valencia for this February appointment, which is crucial for my profession as a seller of ceramic tile stocks; the major manufacturers in Spain exhibit here, notably among the world's leading nations in production, offering quality products at truly competitive prices compared to the excellent Sassuolo district in Italy. This is my job. Coming to Spain at this time has always been enjoyable for me; in February in Valencia, there is already a spring-like atmosphere compared to the damp and cold of the Po Valley. People love to spill out into the streets and sit outside for breakfasts and meals at any time of the day. I particularly love this place, Plaza Redonda, a small naturally round square formed by the circular shape of the surrounding buildings. You access it through an arch, and inside this little square, as if that weren't enough, there is even an original nineteenth-century fountain. In the last century, before its renovation, it was a kind of small market called a "rastro" here, meaning a street market where bartering took place. In the '50s and '60s, everything was sold: fruit, vegetables, paintings, antiques, and even pets, especially dogs...

Today, the lace and haberdashery sellers are the remnants of that period, while the rest of the shops offer souvenirs, T-shirts, and other minor handicraft products; it's very pleasant to stay here in silence and listen to the chatter of these women, amplified by the shape of the walls, as they create lace and garments; it is one of the places I like the most because watching them work serenely gives me good feelings. Their language now belongs to me; I learned Spanish a long time ago precisely due to countless trips both here in Spain and in Latin America, and I have no difficulty understanding and speaking it. With all the cigarettes I smoke, Spain is almost my second home: no one looks at you strangely here if you destroy your health from morning to night, smoking one deadly cigarette after another from the famous red and white pack. It is strange; the Spaniards conquered Latin America at the expense of native peoples, who, in return, perhaps almost in revenge, gave us the vice of smoking through the conquistadores. With the discovery of America, Rodrigo de Jeréz, a companion of Christopher Columbus, was the first European to learn to smoke ("The Indians mix breath with a plant called pentum or tabago and blow like the devil"). Of course, they mastered and feared it; they certainly didn't send it straight into their lungs, but we do.

This morning, after the difficult call from Italy, something inside me stopped, I haven't quite figured out what... but I'm thinking about it a lot. Here in Plaza Redonda today, I realized for the first time that nothing built is eternal, and that if business does not go the right way, it means that someone or the universe itself is telling you to change... but I will only understand this in a few years. There are three things I always do in Valencia in February: I visit the fair and go to some manufacturing companies in Castellon de la Plana; in the evening, I indulge in fish paella and sangria; at night, I go for Flamenco. Let us be clear, I am not a dance enthusiast, but I love flamenco guitar combined with the skill of the Cantaor, who are the vocal interpreters that, along with the dancers, animate the evenings of the most characteristic and simple places in Valencia.

The Café del Duende is my favorite place, and I think I will go there tonight; it is located in Carrer del Túria, and in 20 minutes on foot from my apartment at Valencia Flats near the Ayuntamiento, I can reach it without any problems. The centre of Valencia is easy to navigate on foot and completely safe even at night.

I am 38 years old, have a satisfying job, have travelled half the world, speak not only Spanish but also English and Portuguese, and play the guitar (left-handed). I am neither married nor engaged; I have never lacked opportunities to settle down with a woman and start a family, simply, I do not feel ready yet, or at least I do not have the need or the calling for it. Instead, I sincerely feel like a healthy egoist who loves only himself. I like to feel free, face any experience, any journey, any situation without annoying hindrances. In short, since I love to dream, I must also be able to put the dream into practice!

I do not want to say much about myself right now because I am very angry with the world. So, perhaps due to the thoughts related to the misfortune of losing my dear English partner, I buy the Periódico de Aquí, a local newspaper, to waste some time, maybe to see if there are other flamenco concerts or events scheduled for this week. I am especially looking to see if there is any good gitano playing at Radio City; the last time I saw Juan de Pilar playing with Tomás de los Cariños on vocals was exactly a year ago. I remember buying his precious CD "Oro Blanco" directly from Juan de Pilar, and as soon as I arrived in Italy, I put it in the CD player in my car parked at Orio al Serio Airport and listened to it during the journey back home, I live in the small city of Verona. The song "Bolero" has an immediate effect, and like a powerful balm, it can soo the any unease. Its music accompanied me for almost the entire journey what great beauty music expresses, the voices that sing, shouting their belonging to the world, and Juan's magnificent guitar, always capable of igniting and warming even the iciest listener. I love its distinctive notes so intense, played with such a great emotional charge... devil of a gypsy!

Chapter 2

The Greyhounds That Are Killed

I can say without a shadow of a doubt that I love paper. I read any writing on any sheet or bottle or jar of sauce that comes in front of me. I could be the terror of supermarkets because of the expired products that, distractedly, are sometimes still placed on the shelves and that I invariably find. I love reading, I love writing, I love translating because it makes me feel good. I like to handle huge dictionaries that I keep at home neatly stored like my beloved geographical and road maps, which I promptly open, consult, and carefully fold and put back on the kitchen table... I love their smell. Today I have in my hands this little newspaper from Valencia to pass through the X-rays.

Among the various news stories reported by the Periodico, I am struck by this one: "Caso de los galgos ahorcados de Fuensalida, de nombre Iniesta y Bola, de 5 años y 22 meses. Sentencia Penal numero..." in essence, the news reports the case of greyhounds hanged in Fuensalida, named Iniesta aged 5, and Bola aged 22 months. The courts, for the first time in Spain, have punished a greyhound owner ( galgueros ) who tortured and killed two greyhounds.

This Court judgement caused a sensation because, despite the deeply rooted custom in this country of using this type of dog, akin to "working tools," it punished the perpetrator of the act. The individual was, in fact, a hunter who had always used this breed of dogs for hunting, bred them, and sold them. In practice, he was a greyhound dealer who had arrogated to himself the right of life and death over his animals. How strange these Spaniards are, not satisfied with making bulls suffer, now they are also going after dogs. Crazy stuff.

The sun in Valencia in February, I had never appreciated it for so long. It seems impossible, but this morning after breakfast and reading the newspaper, I walked to the city beach, and now I find myself in one of those typical restaurants overlooking it. Obviously, almost all the outdoor tables are already occupied; you can hear voices in many languages: Italian, English, and German are the most common. On the other hand, we are in the trade fair period, and it seems that someone else, like me, has taken a half-day break. So instead of eating the usual sandwiches that are the same in all the fairs in the world, one can enjoy not only the climate but also the Valencian cuisine. I order "gambas a l'ajillo," garlic shrimp, and "pulpo alla gallega," Galician-style octopus, which are my favorite delicious dishes for lunch. I will not have to worry, at least today, if my breath smells of garlic. So, while waiting for lunch, I find myself alone there, thinking about those two dogs. In my childhood home, I never saw the shadow of a dog; instead, I always lived with cats of all characters and colors: there was the gray, the black, the brown, the tricolored cat, the big red tomcat, and the fantastic white cat, the last one who lived almost ten years in our family. She adored me.