Greyhound Rescue

Greyhound rescue sure seems to be a hot topic these days.  Campaigners in all parts of the world where greyhound racing takes place are working on  increasing public awareness of the plight of these gentle creatures.

Greyhound rescue centers around the globe are always packed with greyhound adoption candidates.  The sad thing is that those dogs who end up in dog rescue centers are only the tip of a tragic iceberg.  Thousands upon thousands of retired racing greyhounds are shot or put to sleep every year.  Worse, many are just thrown out on the street or allowed to go into abusive and uncaring situations after their life on the dog track is through.

There is a horrific catalog of abuse suffered by these trusting, gentle hounds.  Whilst not wishing to dwell on the horrors too much, dogs are often abandoned with their ears torn off.  This is because all racing greyhounds carry tattoos in their ears which identify them and their previous trainers and owners.  Many of the worst atrocities take place in rural Spain where they are used for the short hunting season and then disposed of, many times in dreadful, inhumane ways. 

So it is obvious when so many thousands of young greyhounds are discarded by the greyhound racing industry that greyhound rescue is necessary.  Unfortunately in some countries where racing is popular, it is not recognized that greyhounds can make great pets after their life on the dog track is finished.  Many Irish greyhound trainers are incredulous at the prospect of these animals becoming household pets, despite the dogs gentle natures.

Let's imagine then that we were talking about tigers.  Whatever the plight of the tigers, none of us are considering adopting them into our homes.  These animals do not have the potential to be viable as household pets. Put simply, there would be nothing in it for the human (except potential tragedy).  There has to be some advantage to the person who adopts a greyhound, other than the warm glow of knowing he saved the dog from death or worse.  The good news is that greyhounds are not like tigers, and aggression is quite rare.

The advantages of greyhound adoption are borne out by the fact that so many people find that once they have one, they must have another.  This is often called "chipping" in the USA.  To chip is to add another greyhound to your home.  The origin of the word "chip" in this context is to liken the dogs to potato chips: once you've tried one you want more! 

In general, if you take a greyhound from the greyhound adoption league or similar dog rescue organization you will be rewarded.  Rewarded by the companionship of a graceful and noble dog who is very loving and gentle.  They tend to be sedate when out on the leash, but at home they can be mischievous clowns causing merriment and laughter.  To watch them playing and running is an absolute joy. 

Rescued greyhounds don't need a huge amount of exercise.  The standard recommendation is for two twenty minute walks per day.  Some dogs really do appreciate a sprint in a safe and fenced area.  Then again some are content never to run again.  They are flexible and accommodating, only too happy to curl up on the sofa with you or each other. 

Maybe it is a bit anthropomorphic but they really do seem grateful for their new life.  Bear in mind that a racing greyhound is retired at the age of 2 to 6 years of age.  They can live until 12 to 14 years old.  Consequently  you will have plenty of time together to be glad you took part in greyhound rescue.