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Combining history of extinct Woolly Dogs with the current woofers of Guemes

Coast Salish First Peoples chose Guemes Island to raise dogs with valuable woolly undercoats used in their woven textiles. For that, we adopted the nickname Dog Island, and today, we honor their story and celebrate the island's current canine population through an amusing research and art project.

By Paul Kane - https://collections.rom.on.ca/objects/228434/a-woman-weaving-a-blanket-songheessaanich-central-coast, Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=48089577
Detail from A Woman Weaving a Blanket by Paul Kane, 1849-1856

As we learn about Woolly Dogs, we'll share links and resources while creating a playground for Guemes Island neighbors to show off their clever four-legged friends. We can't photograph or profile an extinct dog, but many current residents have talents and looks worthy of a fun project.

The Studio Dogs

Gitzo

Gitzo

More muscle than mutt, more sloth than dog.

Chaka Khan

Chaka Khan

A born worrier and champion ratter; record 8 in one year!

Otus

Otus

Picture perfect posture and #willworkforcheese.

Batz

Batz

Frets over excessive use of the subjunctive.

The Book Is Out!