Wildlife Conservation Network
 
African wild dog, Photo: Peter Blinston
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.
More
Snare wire, Photo: Peter Blinston
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.
More

 

PDC featured in the New York Times

OPINION | April 15, 2010
Op-Ed Columnist:
Every (Wild) Dog Has Its Day
By NICHOLAS D. KRISTOF

A lesson in do-gooder marketing to save an endangered species in the African bush.

Photo: Greg Rasumussen
 
Support This Project
www.painteddog.org