Adopt a Greyhound in April!

Did you know that Greyhounds make amazing pets? Jax, in the photo, was recently adopted by a friend of mine after Jax’s racing career ended. Jax is a very mellow and loving dog, has adapted very well to his new home, and has enhanced my friend’s life with his gentle and sweet personality. 

According to Larry Kay, co-author of “Training the Best Dog Ever”, Greyhounds, bred for a racing lifestyle, are kept in kennels when they’re not on the racetrack, fed special high-performance diets, and race up until age five before they are considered no longer viable. Luckily, Greyhound fostering and adoption groups have stepped up and are helping these gentle giants find forever homes.

Some important Greyhound facts to know:

They need fenced-in yards and enjoy daily walks.

They require a special collar because their necks are wider than their heads. 

They must be kept leashed because they can reach top speeds in three strides. 

They can see up to a half a mile away.

They were originally bred as hunting dogs.

It may take time for them to get used to living in a home, walking on grass, and navigating around furniture, but they quickly adapt to their new lives. Greyhounds are vulnerable to pet suffocation, too, so make sure you pet-proof your home against any potential suffocation risks.  

Thinking about adopting a retired Greyhound? Find a reputable Greyhound Rescue and Adoption organization to work with. They do careful vetting of new owners to ensure the match is a good fit. Be prepared to fall in love!