Bringing your New Greyhound Home Transition Information for New Greyhound Owners

The following information about your new greyhound has been gathered based on our experience placing retired racing greyhounds in adoptive homes. Although each dog has a unique personality and will respond to the transition to a home as a pet somewhat differently, some or all of the information may be useful to a new owner. If your dog seems to be having trouble adjusting or you have any questions, please call us. The Forever Home staff , is available to assist you. In some cases we can provide the name and telephone number of the trainer who last worked with the dog, and we can make referrals on obedience training and other issues. Please feel free to call on us at the following numbers:

Paula LaPorte (President):  518-261-7025 / Cell 518-428-3254

Martha Schoene (Vice President):  518-883-5554 

Roberta Brooks (Treasurer):  518-294-7130

Virginia ( Ginger ) Lent (Secretary): 518-725-5415

SOME BACKGROUND ABOUT RETIRED GREYHOUNDS

The greyhounds we place are generally retired, trained athletes. Although we may very infrequently have greyhound puppies or dogs that have never been trained for the track, these are much more the exception than the rule.

Greyhounds are generally bred by professional breeders who look for speed, endurance and even temperament. Most are bred on "farms", usually in the Mid-West, where the breeders pay close attention to the physical soundness and emotional disposition of the puppies. As a result, hereditary physical and temperament problems have been largely avoided in the breed. For the first year of their lives greyhound puppies are handled frequently by walkers and others associated with the breeding "farm", but they are not exposed to other breeds of dogs. Consequently, they are surprisingly socialized to people and completely unfamiliar with other breeds of dog. Sometime between 4 and eighteen months, they generally are placed in individual crates where they spend most of their time between exercise periods and training. The crate becomes the dog's private, safe space where they cannot be bothered by other dogs. Generally, greyhounds are not abused or mistreated, although their handling is straight forward and utilitarian. They do not get anything in the way of attention or handling that is not needed as a part of their training for the track.

THINGS TO KNOW

Basically a greyhound is like all other dogs, but because of its training and racing career has some unique characteristics. Greyhounds, like all other dogs, are pack animals which means that they are social creatures who live in a social hierarchy. They need to know who the "alpha" figure, the pack leader, is so that they know how to behave. The "alpha" figure sets the rules, enforces discipline and is responsible for the safety, health and well being of the pack. There is always competition and testing in a pack for taking over the role of leader; the strongest member leading the pack insures its safety and survival. As a pet, your dog will look to you to be the "alpha" figure, but will be perfectly willing to take over if it is allowed. Most dog behavior problems arise out of an owner's misunderstanding of the proper role of the pack leader. Among the more common problems arising out of a misunderstanding of the leader role are the reinforcement of shy insecure behavior or alternately allowing the dog to take over as leader. The results of these errors is generally a problem dog that is no longer a welcome member of the family. There are several very good books available on dog behavior. Forever Home greyhounbd adoptions can recommend qualified people who can assist you with behavior and training problems if they should arise and can recommend qualified dog trainers in your area.

A retired racing greyhound has probably never been in a house before and things will be strange. The sounds, smells, shadows are all new to it. Initially, your greyhound will probably be confused by the new environment and will not know what is appropriate behavior. It may stare ahead and seem unresponsive, or the dog may be tense and possibly withdrawn. This is typical greyhound stress behavior. Remember it is undergoing stress adjusting to its new environment. Unless completely terrified, greyhounds frequently exhibit very subtle signs of stress which may go unnoticed. It is normal for a new dog to be afraid at first.

Greyhounds are used to living in crates where they feel safe and secure. Frequently, the use of a crate can ease the transition for a new dog. The National Greyhound Foundation strongly recommends that you invest in one and become familiar with its correct and appropriate use. Your dog is use to being inactive for long periods, so leaving your dog to go to work or tend to other activities in not a problem. They may, however, become very insecure if let with the run of the house when no one is around. Remember while on the track, they have been confined to their crates when not involved in purposeful activities. Again the use of a crate for the dog while you are out can ease the transition for both the dog and the owner. If you are going to be gone for the day, be sure to leave fresh water for your greyhound. If the dog is left in a crate there are various ways to attach a water pail to the side of the crate so it cannot tip over when your greyhound is turning around or moving. Crates are available from a wide variety of kennel supply companies and should be large enough for the dog to comfortably stand and turn around.

On the track greyhounds live regimented, scheduled lives. Your dog will adjust more easily if you establish a schedule for feeding and walking and stick to it. Time portion controlled feeding. Remember that the hand that trains is the hand that feeds. Typically, your dog will start bonding at feeding time. Although others in the family may want to share in the feeding, initially it is best for one person to do the feeding. Time duty trips close to feeding time, usually within an hour before.

Feed twice a day with good quality dog food, some oil and table scraps but avoid dog food that is high in fat and protein. On the track your greyhound has been fed a high protein diet designed to support great bursts of energy. Although is may be suitable for racing, diet too high in fat and protein is hard on your dogs kidneys, contributes to diarrhea and is potentially harmful as your dog gets older and less active.

Although virtually all retired greyhounds are fundamentally sound, they may get diarrhea as a result of changes in food or as a stress reaction. Brief periods of stress induced colitis is not uncommon in greyhounds making the transition into a new environment. These episodes may last from a few days to a few months depending on the dog. Make changes in your greyhounds diet gradually and consult your veterinarian if loose stools persist for more than a few days.

If your new greyhound is just off the track, it may still be at it's track weight and appear very thin. Generally, you should be able to feel your dog's ribs and perhaps faintly see them through its coat. Avoid overfeeding; greyhounds are not designed to carry extra weight which can cause problems and be harmful. Avoid underfeeding; it results not only in physical problems but behavior problems, as well.

THINGS YOU AND YOUR VETERINARIAN SHOULD KNOW

Greyhounds, especially those that have survived to race on the track and retire, are fundamentally healthy dogs. They do not have any hereditary problems found ins some breeds. They have had some immunization shots on the track, depending on what state requirements were where they raced.We at Forever Home have all shots brought current before we offer the Greyhound for adoption..

Because greyhounds are kenneled with a large number of other dogs and the population is highly transient, it is very likely that your dog has whipworm or roundworms or tapeworms or all three. We have the dogs wormed when they are spayed/neutered but you should bring a stool sample when you take your Greyhound for his/her first visit with your own Veterinarian.It has been our experience that greyhounds coming from the track have not been infected with heartworm. We treat our Greys with Ivermectin each month until adopted. You should consult with your vet as to which product he or she recommends.Greyhounds have no anatomical fat layer which in most other breeds acts, in part, as a filter for toxins. Commercially available flea collars should never be used on a greyhound. The ingredients that kill the fleas penetrate the dog's skin and enter the spinal column resulting in serious illness and possibly death. There are a number of herbal flea repellant products available that can be used as an alternative, and many people have successfully controlled fleas with a spray of 1/3 Avon Skin So Soft and 2/3 water.

Greyhounds are also especially sensitive to barbiturate based anesthesia and can be easily over drugged resulting in the best cases in prolonged recovery of consciousness, and heart failure and death in the worst. Your veterinarian should be aware of this tendency before conducting any procedure that requires anesthesia.

For reasons of long term health and to avoid more unwanted pets, ALL adopted greyhounds, both male and female, MUST be sexually altered (spayed or neutered). We have been able to provide these procedures for all of our greyhounds before adoption. GETTING TO KNOW YOUR NEW GREYHOUND

A greyhound is a sight hound related to Afghans, Salukis and other sight hounds. Although they have exceptionally keen eyesight and can see clearly for distances up to half a mile, they also have keen hearing and sense of smell. They have been trained to chase lures, usually mechanical but sometimes live. They are NOT vicious predators as many believe, but chase things that move by nature. It is the greyhound's nature to run. They are sprinters who can run up to 45 miles an hour for very short periods. Some of them love to run; others are simply not interested after they retire.

Greyhounds from the track do not know what traffic is, and may be easily distracted by the new sights and sounds in its new environment. Your dog's safety and its life depend on your wisdom, care and understanding. Never allow the dog loose where it might catch sight of something to chase across traffic.

Your greyhound is essentially a puppy at heart and a runner. Unlike other breeds, they rely mostly on sight and cannot easily find their way back as scent oriented puppies can. Do not let it loose where it can loose sight of you or you of the dog. You will not be able to catch your greyhound if it starts to run, so do not let it loose where it can escape even unintentionally.

With patience, consistency and practice, greyhounds can be taught typical obedience commands such a sit, stay, heel, down and come. They are anxious to please, but they may surprise you with their quiet independence. They are used to a leash, love to walk and will learn to heel quickly. Most greyhounds do not know how to sit, climb stairs or play games. With time they can learn all of these things.

The most important command, return when called, is also the most difficult to teach any dog. Good books are available on dog obedience and training classes are available - contact us for information on greyhound training and/or referral to a qualified trainer in your area. Do not let your greyhound loose in an unfenced area until you are absolutely certain it will return on command and be especially careful in any area where traffic and visual distractions can effect your control of your dog.

Greyhounds from the track are "crate trained" which means that they will not soil their crate unless they are very ill and cannot control themselves. They can make the transition from their crate to a new home with a watchful eye from you and a little patience. Make sure that the dog has an opportunity to thoroughly relieve itself before entering a new home. When it is duty time, let your greyhound loose only if you have a safe, enclosed area. Otherwise, use an 8' lead and training collar (a chain or web slip collar that the dog cannot slip over its head). After your dog has relieved itself, give it lots of praise followed by its regular feeding. With this sequence of activities the dog will learn to please you, stay with you and know that it will be rewarded for acceptable behavior.

Occasionally, after a greyhound has been in a new home for some time and begins to relax into its new role as a pet, it may break house training. Apparently the dog becomes confused when it suddenly makes the shift from a working dog to your pet. Patient, consistent reinforcement of the rules will quickly solve the problem if it occurs.

At some point after entering a new home, the dog will pick a spot to lie down (on an old blanket or someplace it feels relatively safe). Let it remain quiet unless it comes to you. Be patient, gentle, speak soft, soothing, one word assurances. Speak "NO" more strongly for unacceptable behavior.

If you do not want the dog in certain rooms use your hand as a traffic cop and say firmly but gently "NO", and stay that way until the dog gets the message. Consistency, repetition and softness are the keys to successful training. Greyhounds like comfort and will make themselves at home on the sofa or bed if permitted. If you do not want to share every soft surface in the house with your dog, start immediately to block it from those places and show it where it is acceptable. Please be consistent; a dog cannot differentiate between when it is alright to get on the bed and when it is not.

Note that the literature suggests that training is accelerated and behavior enhanced when the dog shares the Master/Mistress's bedroom. You are the alpha figure and the bedroom is your den. This Master/Mistress is also preferably the feeder.

If you let your new greyhound into the bedroom, it will quickly settle down. Your closeness and scent are a source of security in a bewildering, new environment. Remember, however, once you have allowed the dog into the bedroom, you are committed. Like all learned behavior, your dog will respond and will expect to be allowed to continue the behavior.

If the dog is not allowed into the bedroom, please keep it nearby and develop it's confidence with soft words of assurance.

In spite of their early training for the race track, greyhounds love people, in fact more than most breeds, and tend to be quite sociable. They have been handled a great deal during their early years by dog walkers, trainers, veterinarians and others. Many trainers are women who bring their children to work, so the dogs frequently have been exposed to children of all ages.

Generally, greyhounds are quizzical, sometimes shy, very sensitive and surprisingly gentle. They possess superior intelligence, and can exhibit quiet and surprising independence. These are not animals whose spirit have been broken by their training or racing experience. Because of their early training, retired greyhounds have never had the opportunity to really be a puppy and may need to act out some puppy behavior, like chewing, which they typically quickly outgrow.

They have never been exposed to other breeds of dogs or cats, so they know other greyhounds only, and may be perplexed, frightened or simply ignore other breeds. They do not know cats. Greyhounds do not know how to defend themselves except by flight and will often "freeze" if attacked.

Greyhounds are used to traveling and adapt quickly to riding in cars.

Greyhounds do not typically bite but sometimes show affection as a wolf does with mouth agape, gently grasping. They will lick your hand, too. They show affection with their whole body and may rub up like a cat or lean against you.

Greyhounds have no fat layer on their bodies which makes them sensitive to winter cold or rain. If outside for more than a short time in bad weather, they should be protected with a coat. No dog should be left outside in the cold.

Greyhounds are not barkers by nature, but will bark if excited or trying to tell you something like needing to go out.

Your greyhound may be perplexed by its reflection in mirrors, fireplace glass, French doors and the like. Let it explore.

Greyhounds love rawhide bones but may not know how to hold them at first. Because their diet is closely controlled while they are racing and consists of mostly soft food, your dog's teeth may be stained and have built up tartar needed to be cleaned by the veterinarian.

A new dog may startle easily at first - don't sneak up on your dog from behind, come from the front. Speak softly. It will always hear you unless it is asleep.

They tend to sleep deeply and need to be awakened slowly. If your dog is asleep, please do not startle it. If you do your greyhound may make a sassy "grumph" in the same way they would with a kennel mate. Over time it will adjust to soft intrusions.

WHEN I GET TO MY NEW HOME
(The 1st few days)

I've probably never been in a house before and things will be strange. I may be tense, possibly withdrawn. Be sure I "empty" before entering. I may be afraid though you may not notice. This is normal. At some point I'll pick a spot to lie down (on an old blanket or whatever). Let me remain quiet unless I come to you. Be patient, gentle, speak soft, soothing, one word assurances as "good", "easy". Speak "no" more strongly for unacceptable behavior.

If you do not want me in a certain room use your hand as a traffic cop and say firmly but gently "no". Stay that way until I get the message. Repetition and softness are the keys to my learning.

I like comfort, so start now to block me from the sofa if you do not want me on it and show me where to lie, on what soft surface.

Mirrors, fireplace glass, French doors reflect my image. This may perplex me - "who is this other dog?" Let me explore.

Time my feeding (portion feeding) and remember the hand that trains is the hand that feeds. I will also start bonding at feeding time, so others may want to share in this at first but it is best for one person eventually to do the feeding. Time my duty trips close to mealtime (usually within one hour before).

Feed twice a day with high quality dog food, some oil and table scraps. I may startle easily at first - don't sneak up, come from the front. I'd love a big rawhide bone for my teeth. You may have to show me how to hold it.

Speak softly. I'll always hear you unless I am asleep.

(Depending on space, area, experience, etc. the following comments are suggestions for starting out.)

I may be very afraid the first few nights. The sounds, smells, shadows are all new to me. I may fuss. Reassure me with words and your closeness.

If you let me into your bedroom, I'll quickly settle down. Your closeness and scent are my security in this bewildering environment. Remember, once you allow this you have committed. Like all learned behavior this is how I'll respond and what I will expect to be allowed to do.

If not allowed in your bedroom, please keep me nearby and develop my confidence with soft words of assurance.

At first I may stare ahead and seem unresponsive. Remember, I'm undergoing stress adjusting as you probably are too. Quiet and calm is the way to go. A light and gentle message all over (paws and all) with soothing words is great for both of us (try not to pat).

When it is duty time, let me loose if this is safe in an enclosed area. Otherwise, use an 8 foot leather lead and training collar (chain). After I have done my "duty" praise me with "good", a light pat and "let's go eat". I am beginning to learn to please you and stay with you and know that you will reward me for acceptable behavior.

For athletes extras are rarely allowed. I'll fatten up a little on my own and will probably need to when I first come to you. But remember, overfeeding causes problems later on and will be harmful to me.

Underfeeding is also harmful and can result not only in physical problems but in behavior problems (such as stealing food). A good rule of thumb for weight is that you should be able to feel my ribs but not see them. Also, the veterinarian you should take me to soon after you bring me home, can advise you as to the amount of weight I should or should not gain and can further advise you on amounts of food I should receive daily.

If I am asleep, please don't startle me. I may make a sassy "grumph" as I would to my kennel mate. Over time I'll adjust to a soft intrusion.

I'm a puppy at heart and a runner (very swift). Unlike other breeds I rely mostly on sight. I cannot easily find my way back as scent oriented pups can, so do not let me loose where I may loose sight of you or you of me. You will not be able to catch me if a start to run so do not let me loose where I can escape, even unintentionally.

I don't know what traffic is. I'll be easily distracted by all the sights and sounds in my new world. My safety and my life depend on your wisdom, care and understanding. Never allow me loose where I might chase across traffic.

Ordinarily a dog is trained to heel, sit, stay, down and recall (the most difficult). I shall try to be a polite dog if you teach me. The most important is to have me return to you after release no matter where we are. Good books are available on training or I may be taken to "obedience classes" - consult my veterinarian.

How to teach a 35 mile per hour (50-60 lb.) puppy recall. Keep me on lead and collar at all times when in the open and when training (playtime is another thing). I'll gradually leave "high jinks" behind though the "flight instinct" is prevalent and training me may be hard at first because of the flood of information I'm trying to sort out. It is helpful to whistle or call me whenever I am fed so that I associate your call with the reward of food. Eventually, the reward of praise is sufficient. Do not let me loose in an unfenced area until you are absolutely sure I will return on call.

With your patience and devotion I'll surprise you and respond with more in kind. Then we'll know I've come in FIRST.

INTERESTING TRIVIA ON GREYHOUNDS

Greyhounds are the only canine mentioned in the Bible by name. (King James version, Proverbs 30:29-31).

Greyhounds are the oldest, purebred dog dating back to the Pharaohs of Ancient Egypt. Paintings inside the tombs of the great pyramids depicted greyhounds.

A law passed during the reign of King Canute stated "No mean person may keep any greyhounds." The law also stated that the destruction of a greyhound should carry the same capital punishment as the murder of a man.

In England at one time, it was forbidden for "commoners" to even own a greyhound.

Our American General Custer was a big greyhound fancier.

President Abraham Lincoln had a greyhound on his family coat-of-arms.

In 1804, Australia issued a proclamation ordering the destruction of all dogs except greyhounds and sheepdogs.

The mythical Greek Goddess Diana is usually pictured with a greyhound at her side.

There is an Irish greyhound named Master McGrath, who has been memorialized in poetry and song for his winning the English Waterloo Cup race.

John Barrymore, the famous actor, always kept his house full of greyhounds as pets.

Bo Derek, the actress best known from the movie "10" and "Tarzan" owns several retired racing greyhounds, and is a great advocate of our program promoting these dogs as pets.

For many, many years the American make of car the Lincoln, had a greyhound as its hood ornament.

Greyhounds are the fastest breed to dog, reaching top speeds of 40 miles per hour!

Greyhounds can see clearly for a distance of a half-mile!

Many people who are allergic to dogs are not allergic to greyhounds, due to their short, sleek coat and skin type, which has more oil to it, thus less dandruff.

Greyhounds are not guard dogs. Being bred specifically to be even-tempered and good natured, they are inherently well socialized. For this reason they love everyone.

A retired racing greyhound will return the love and affection you give him by 110%. Few things in life are quite as satisfying as adopting one of these lovely greyhounds and being rewarded with never-ending love!

Please call me today and join us in this great program
at 518-261-7025
or
E-mail paula@foreverhomegreyhounds.com

Thank You

Paula LaPorte
and her greyhound friends.

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Greyhounds With Children and Other Pets

It's up to the parents to see that the interaction of your greyhound with your child or children remains stable.

We expect the parents to supervise a child when around a hound At All Times.

The greyhound is extremely tolerant, however when a child mistreats a dog, either the dog will become fed up and will defend itself, or he/she will become afraid of the child.

NEVER let a young child walk your hound alone without adult supervision.

The greyhound is not a toy - it deserves respect.

LET SLEEPING DOGS LIE! No one - human or canine - enjoys being pestered or pounced on while they are sleeping, and the greyhound is no exception. Your greyhound will let you know when he/she wants to wake up and play.

Hugging or clinging to the greyhound can be scary. Teach your children how to gently pet your dog while talking to it.

Tails and ears are private things, not play things.

If a child is persistent in pestering the dog, remove either the dog or the child from the area for a while. Give your new pet a chance to be quiet and rest, away from disturbances.

Most children approach dogs head-on with all good intentions of hugging the dog. Such intense body language and direct eye contact are very threatening to all dogs.

When introducing your new greyhound to small dogs, cats, or other small household pets, common sense and caution should rule.

If your current pet is a dog, it is wise to introduce him/her to the new greyhound on neutral territory, and on lead.

Don't let your current pet feel threatened, or become jealous over the attention the new pet is getting.

You should not let them out in the yard alone together until they are comfortable with one another.

Although we cat test all our greyhounds, you should still be very cautious when introducing your greyhound to a new cat. The greyhound should always be muzzled on leash, and under your control.

Showing the greyhound the cat immediately upon entering the house works best.

Bring the dog an cat into a room with your hound on leash and with a muzzle on. Let the hound investigate while your cat as freedom to leave.

You want to get the point across that the cat is a member of the family, and not fun to chase or otherwise harass.

Show your greyhound, by petting the cat, that the cat is a member of the family and was in the house before he got there, and therefore, is not a toy.

If the cat runs, the chase instinct will kick in and your greyhound will probably chase the cat. This is why the "lap trick" seems to work so well - you are able to hold the cat relatively stationary for the initial introduction.

Be sure to praise the greyhound for nicely sniffing and investigating the cat. Any inappropriate behavior must be quickly and firmly discouraged. Again, a sharp "NO" to the dog while continuing to pet the cat.

Be careful the first couple of days, don't leave the cat and dog loose together in the house. Keep all cat food and the litter box away from your dog.

At first crate your greyhound when you leave home so he can't hurt the cat even by accident, and they may well get acquainted through the crate door, with no threat to either.

De-clawed cats, frightened or skittish animals must be closely monitored.

Do not let children tease your dog with your cat or let them hold your cat over the dog's head.

Outdoors, all small animals, including your own, must always be considered fair game.

A greyhound, being a sight-hound hunter, will chase anything that runs. The greyhound may unintentionally harm a small fleeing animal.

If you live in a neighborhood with free-roaming pets, particularly cats, you may want to forewarn your neighbors. It is too much to ask of any animal not to chase a strange animal that enters their fenced yard, unannounced.

Forever Home Greyhound Adoption has made every effort possible to place a greyhound we assume will be OK with your other pets. However, caution and common sense should still rule. If your new greyhound is having a problem adjusting to a small pet, please call us as soon as possible.

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Greyhounds as Pets

When you bring a greyhound into your life, you begin a journey - a journey that will bring you more love and devotion than you have ever known, yet also test your strength and courage.

If you allow, the journey will teach you many things, about life, about yourself, and most of all, about love. You will come away changed forever, for one soul cannot touch another without leaving its mark. Along the way, you will learn much about savoring life’s simple pleasures -jumping in leaves, snoozing in the sun, the joys of puddles, and even the satisfaction of a good scratch behind the ears. If you spend much time outside, you will be taught how to truly experience every element, for no rock, leaf, or Jog will go unexamined, no rustling bush will be overlooked, and even the very air will be inhaled, pondered, and noted as being full of valuable information. Your pace may be slower - except when heading home to the food dish - but you will become a better naturalist, having been taught by an expert in the field.

Too many times we hike on automatic pilot, our goal being to complete the trail rather than enjoy the journey. We miss the details - the colorful mushrooms on the rotting log, the honeycomb in the old maple snag, the hawk feather caught on a twig. Once we walk as a dog does, we discover a whole new world. We stop; we browse the landscape, we kick over leaves, peek in tree holes, look up, down, all around. And we learn what any dog knows: that nature has created a marvelously complex world that is full of surprises, that each cycle of the seasons bring ever changing wonders, each day an essence all its own.

Even from indoors you will find yourself more attuned to the world around you. You will find yourself watching summer insects collecting on a screen. (How bizarre they are! How many kinds there are!), or noting the flick and flash of fireflies through the dark. You will stop to observe the swirling dance of windblown leaves, or sniff the air after a rain. It does not matter that there is no objective in this; the point is in the doing, in not letting life’s most important details slip by. You will find yourself doing silly things that your dog-less friends might not understand: spending thirty minutes in the pet store aisle looking for the dog food brand your greyhound must have, buying dog birthday treats, or driving around the block an extra time because your greyhound enjoys the ride. You will roll in the snow, wrestle with chewy toys, bounce little rubber balls till your eyes cross, and even run around the house trailing your bathrobe tie - with a greyhound in hot pursuit - all in the name of love. You may find dog biscuits in your pocket or purse, and feel the need to explain that old plastic shopping bags are conveniently positioned by every house entrance for pick-up duty in the yard.

You will learn the true measure of love - the steadfast, undying kind that says, “It doesn’t matter where we are or what we do, or how life treats us as long as we are together.” Respect this always. It is the most precious gift any living soul can give another. You will not find it often among the human race. And you will learn humility. The look in my greyhound’s eyes often made me feel ashamed. Such joy and love at my presence. She saw not some flawed human who could be cross and stubborn, moody or rude, but only her wonderful companion. Or maybe she saw those things and dismissed them as mere human foibles, not worth considering, and so chose to love me anyway.

If you pay attention and learn well, when the journey is done, you will be not just a better person, but the person your greyhound always knew you to be - the one they were proud to call beloved friend. I must caution you that this journey is not without pain. Like all paths of true love, the pain is part of loving. For as surely as the sun sets, one day your dear greyhound companion will follow a trail you cannot yet go down. And you wilt have to find the strength and love to let them go. A pet’s time on earth is far too short - especially for those that love them. We borrow them, really, just for a while, and during these brief years they are generous enough to give us all their love, every inch of their spirit and heart, until one day there is nothing left. The greyhound that only yesterday was a racer is all too soon old and frail and sleeping in the sun, waking up stiff and lame, the muzzle now gray. Deep down we somehow always knew that this journey would end. We knew that if we gave our hearts they would be broken. But give them we must, for it is all they ask in return. When the time comes, and the road curves ahead to a place we cannot see, we give one final gift and let them run on ahead - young and whole once more. “Godspeed, good friend,” we say, until our journey comes full circle and our paths cross again.

Author Unknown

Click here for some advice for when you bring your new Greyhound home!!!