News Release -
Irish Wolfhounds make welcome return to Bunratty Castle and Folk Park
Irish Wolfhounds are once again roaming the grounds of Bunratty Castle and Folk Park in Co. Clare. Shannon Heritage has acquired two new wolfhound puppies, Fionn and Grainne, and they are already creating a stir with visitors.
“It’s been twenty years since Bunratty Castle and Folk Park last had wolfhounds and we are delighted to be reintroducing them to the Folk Park. As part of our visitor experience the Folk Park has many types of animals living in their natural environment. There are sheep, goats, pigs, donkeys, poultry, deer, and the new puppies are already proving really popular with visitors. We are delighted with the positive reaction we are getting from them and indeed our own employees who have really taken the new arrivals to their hearts,” says John Ruddle, CEO Bunratty Castle and Folk Park.
Irish wolfhounds are known for being gentle, friendly and very intelligent, and they inhabited Ireland long before the arrival of Christianity and the written word. Known in Irish as ‘Cu Faoil’denoting bravery, the Irish wolfhound is the stuff of legends.
Throughout history this tallest of dogs has been a warrior, a hunter, and a companion to nobility. Historically these dogs were used to hunt big game, such as wolf and elk, and they gained a reputation for unequalled valour. The Irish wolfhound even participated in battle, pulling men off horseback to be slain.
They have great size, power and speed, and in just six months, Fionn and Grainne will weigh about 100 pounds. Irish wolfhound adult males can attain the stature of a small pony. Despite their size, these shaggy-coated animals have a peaceful and quiet personality. They are affectionate and love to be with people.
Wolfhounds were regular guests at the Bunratty Castle from the early days of the medieval banquets in the 1960’s. The animals would roam the great hall and dining areas as would have been the custom in medieval times.
Caoimhe Lally (4 yrs, from Limerick) and her mum Elaine are pictured here at Bunratty Castle and Folk Park with two 12 week old Irish wolfhound puppies (Grainne and Fionn) a welcome addition to the range of animals already housed at the top visitor attraction.
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For further information please contact:
Nandi O’Sullivan
Public Relations Manager
Tel: +353 61 710259
Mobile: +353 86-2371510
Fax: 061 363180
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