Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.” Margaret Mead
Every year, the dog racing industry breeds tens of thousands of greyhounds, many more than can be placed at racetracks. This overbreeding is motivated by the desire to produce winning dogs. As a result, there are thousands of “surplus” greyhounds each year that are at risk of being destroyed. A dog’s racing career is usually over at 3½ to 4 years of age, but, if allowed to live out his or her full life as a companion animal, a greyhound may live 13 or more years.
Founded in 1998, Grateful Greyhounds, Inc. is a local non-profit volunteer-run organization that helps to rescue and rehabilitate greyhounds, placing them into loving homes. The volunteers at Grateful Greyhounds raise awareness of the plight of the racing greyhound, and participate in various community outreach programs. GG serves the Long Island and metro areas, including Westchester/Rockland Counties and some parts of New Jersey. This amazing group places over 100 greyhounds into responsible homes every year.
Here are some facts you may not know about greyhounds
— Greyhounds are docile, gentle, low-key creatures. On the track, greyhounds may possess outstanding athletic abilities, but in the home environment, they’re “regular couch potatoes”. Like any family dog, however, they need regular exercise to maintain their good health. A nice long walk on the leash three or four times a week is recommended. A fenced-in yard will make a great play area for your greyhound and provide it with adequate room for exercise.
–Greyhounds are wonderfully outgoing, friendly and not aggressive.
Greyhounds are easy to train and are very social. –Greyhounds adapt very quickly to your routine. Riding in a car, climbing stairs, playing with toys and other “firsts” may confuse a greyhound that is unaccustomed to these activities, but in no time at all he/she will master these and other household challenges.
–Greyhounds love children and other pets. Greyhounds possess one of the best temperaments of all dog breeds. Gentle, patient and sensitive, they make ideal companions for children and seniors alike.
For more info you may want to read “Adopting the Racing Greyhound” by Cynthia Branigan. If you think a greyhound may be right for you, visit Grateful Greys website at http://www.gratefulgreyhoundsny.com
If you can’t adopt, perhaps a donation in memory or honor of a loved one would be an appropriate gift this holiday season.
