Greyhounds are bred for one purpose and that is to race! There are many thousands of these beautiful dogs killed every day because they have either become too slow to race or just didn’t make the grade in the first place. Many of these dogs are destroyed 'DIY' at their owner’s homes. Some of the lucky ones end up in re-homing centres so they can have the chance to live as a loved pet, just like any other breed of dog.

There are many misconceptions about greyhounds as pets; they need lots of exercise, take up a lot of room, will eat you out of house and home, are dangerous to children and will kill any small creatures they meet. This could not be further from the truth as greyhounds are the ideal pet! They walk to heel as they have already been lead trained. They only need 2x20 minute walks per day but also love a good run in a secure area, they will also walk miles with you if you want them to. Greyhounds can curl themselves into the smallest ball but will also stretch out on your couch if allowed. They really do love soft bedding to lay their elegant bodies on. They are also very cheap to feed as most eat 'Resting Greyhound' food which is very cheap at between £7and £8 per sack! Greyhounds don’t produce the same doggy odour as other breeds and require a minimum of grooming. Most are housetrained, as no dog likes to foul its own space and these dogs have spent most of their lives in crates or kennels only being let out to toilet or go racing, they quickly get into your routine at home. Most greyhounds have never been allowed to play, but they soon get the idea once they have the chance. Because they have never been lucky enough to live in a household environment they always seem so grateful to their new owners, as if to say thank you for giving me a chance. If you have been lucky enough to choose a greyhound as a pet you will know what I mean!

These dogs are not just disposable racing machines, they are pet dogs that can run very fast so have been exploited by man to make him a lot of money! Melt into the chocolate brown eyes of a greyhound and receive unconditional love from them. That is priceless.

The Norfolk & Suffolk Animal Trust will always be at the end of the phone if you had any problem with your new dog, we will do all we can to help.

Give a greyhound a chance and adopt one today.

Julie Utting                                   

It wasn’t my fault I didn’t want to race,

But all they did was punch me and shout in my face,

I had to go they had no doubt,

So they led me away and threw me out,

Tattered and ragged I grew so thin,

Why oh why wont someone take me in,

People tried to catch me but I just ran away,

But then you found me and I’m here to stay.

Andy Utting

For further information about Greyhounds as pets, please go to:-
www.thegeryclub.co.uk

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