WCN Wildlife Conservation Network | African Wild Dog

Greg Rasmussen and Peter Blinston, Photos: Sherry Paul; Elaine Iverson

Gregory Rasmussen and Peter Blinston

Greg Rasmussen founded Painted Dog Conservation (PDC) after years of living and working closely with painted dogs in the field. While on the job, Greg suffered severe injuries when his plane crashed into the African bush, but his persistent work has continued nonetheless. Greg is joined by Peter Blinston, PDC's Manager, who has helped translate Greg's vision and research into effective programming.

Threats

The painted dog, or African wild dog, was once common in Africa with over 500,000 in 39 countries. The effects of human encroachment have drastically reduced their range and numbers. Currently, an estimated 3,000 dogs remain, restricted to four southern African countries: Tanzania, Zimbabwe, Botswana and South Africa. While there is no record of a painted dog ever attacking a human being, people remain the greatest threat to the dog's survival.

PDC children's bush camp, Photo: Peter Blinston

Solutions

Painted Dog Conservation (PDC) is a leading model for community-based predator conservation. By combining the most advanced modern technology with traditional knowledge of local communities, PDC has experienced great success – Zimbabwe's wild dog population has increased from 400 to 700 individuals since the project's inception. PDC's model also brings direct benefit to local people with increased employment and unparalleled education opportunities.

Release of WILD DOG ISLAND - the movie

Premiering Sunday, May 10 on Mutual of Omaha’s Wild Kingdom (check your local listings for time and channel).

In Zimbabwe, six orphaned African wild dogs are taking part in a unique experiment. After spending the majority of their lives in captivity, they will be released onto an island in an effort to foster their natural instincts to live and hunt as a pack. The Painted Dog Conservation will prepare them for their new life, but ultimately this pack must learn to survive on its own.

See a short video clip now.