Wolfhounds Return to Bunratty

Irish wolfhounds are once again roaming the paths and laneways of Bunratty Castle and Folk Park.

Among the largest of all breeds of dog, Irish wolfhounds were regular guests at Bunratty Castle from the early days of its banquets in the 1960s. The dogs would roam the great hall and dining areas as would have been the custom in medieval times at the castle.

Now, twelve-week-old Rían (meaning King) and one-year-old Míde, named after the fifth province of Ireland in Celtic times, have taken up permanent residence on the grounds of the visitor attraction. They replace Meabh and Saoirse, the two previous resident wolfhounds at the castle.

Breeder James Hussey of Cúdáráth Irish Wolfhounds delivered the dogs to Bunratty Castle and Folk Park. Affia Hussey aged four and Niall Moloney, farm manager at Bunratty Castle and Folk Park, are pictured with the newly arrived Irish wolfhounds.