Saluki

If there is a new retrovirus that will cause domestic dogs to become extinct, than the smartest move would be to save the Sauki breed of dog. The Saluki is not only one of the oldest breeds dating back 10,000 years, but the breed is genetically very close to wolves. Saving a pregnant Saluki mother and her pups would ensure that the dog species survive this epidemic, and lead way to thriving domestic dog species once again.

    As one of the oldest breeds of dogs in the world, the slim and rugged Saluki was a hunting hound used for thousands of years. With a greyhound-like build, these dogs combine long legs, a relatively narrow body, a small waist and long tail. They are swift and agile sprinters who love the thrill of a chase. Although appearing leggy and slim, these dogs are strong and perfectly balanced, making perfect athletes. This breed is highly adaptable and able to live in almost any climate. Typically breeding with non-salukis was forbidden to allow the Saluki to remain unchanged for thousands of years, however given its closeness to wolves, it is possible this dog could be bred with wolves to preserve the agility and essence of dogs. Being that this breed has thrived for thousands of years and can withstand many climates, Salukis have proven to be a dependable, highly resilient breed that would be able to survive for several more thousand years with this vaccine. Additionally, given the Saluki perfect physique to hunt and run, this would be a great animal that would be easy to train, and could hunt for humans if need be. What if this fatal disease eventually spreads to humans? It would be essential to have an animal that could not only withstand this epidemic, but also help provide food and comfort to humans.