The first sign of greyhound type dogs was in temple drawings dating to 6,000 BC in what is now Turkey. Greyhounds in ancient Egypt were not only companion dogs and hunting partners, they were practically worshiped. The Pharaohs and Cleopatra kept Greyhounds as pets. The greyhound first arrived in the U.S. with immigrants from the British Isles. Greyhounds helped to control the overpopulation of crop-destroying jackrabbits in the 1800's. Mr. Owen Patrick Smith invented the artificial lure in the early 1900's, and the sport of greyhound racing was born in the US.

Greyhounds are among the most gentle of breeds. They form a very strong bond with their human family and are eager to please. The muzzles that racers wear will protect their noses and aid in determining the winner in a photo finish. Greyhounds do not make good watchdogs. Some may bark if a stranger comes near, but barking is usually out of excitement. Visit a greyhound adoption center and you will see for yourself how much they love people.

Greyhounds must live indoors. They cannot withstand temperature extremes and have a delicate skin, which requires sleeping on a soft bed. Greyhounds must never be chained or staked outside. They are highly social animals and must be with people. Greyhounds must always be on leash when outdoors or within a secure fenced in area. Greyhounds are sight hounds and can see clearly for a half a mile. They have no knowledge of cars and traffic and a secured fenced-in area is perfectly OK. Greyhounds enjoy walking or jogging, and are very well behaved on a leash. Greyhounds are patient, loving animals. They have lived with other greyhounds all their life and should quickly make friends with other dogs, cats, or small furry indoor animals.

THE WINNER
by Deborah Raskin of New Beginning Greyhound Adoption

A life at last beyond my crate the turn-out pen and starting gate. No muzzle strapped around my head a smile for you I wear instead.

The endless days of sleep and rest required of me to pass each test. To run the fastest, be the best while making money for all the rest. Pulling tendons, muscle tears, breaking bones. It's tough out there! Another senseless victory for one of you but not for me. Around we race and always end, back in our crates and turn-out pens.

But now I am romping in the sun at my own pace and just for fun. And in my eyes the love you see comes from the very soul of me. It's by your side I'll always be, so thank-you friend for choosing me.
THIS IS MY NEW BEGINNING

In recent years, the medical field has discovered something that pet owners have known forever-dogs and other animals make excellent therapists! It has been proven that stroking a dog or a cat can reduce blood pressure, and ease tension and stress. Physical therapists now know that petting a dog can speed the recovery of disabled hands and arms. Psychologists often have animal therapists in the office with them, because patients are much more comfortable around non-governmental animals. Greyhounds are ideal therapy candidates. They are quiet and sensitive, tall enough to be stroked by bedridden patients and love to be hugged! Their elegant looks and calm nature fascinate children and adults alike. Several retired racers are now certified therapy dogs in the South Florida area.Greyhounds are used to rising early, a strict routine, being handled, music, walking obediently on a leash, and being with other greyhounds and people. They need to learn about: steps and stairs, windows and sliding glass doors, mirrors, swimming pools, riding in cars. Sometimes the use of a dog crate is an effective tool during the transition period for your greyhound.

Have you considered adopting an adult greyhound yet?

There are many adoption groups throughout the country, but in South Florida we have two prominent adoption centers that have being doing a wonderful job, a labor of love, finding homes for hundreds of retired greyhounds. Open your heart to love. Adopt a greyhound!

GREYHOUNDS AS PETS
Quick Facts
Age: Retired racers are usually between two and four years old.
Size: Males are 26 to 30 inches tall at the shoulder. Females are between 23 to 26 inches at the shoulder.
Weight: Males are between 65 and 85 pounds. Females are between 50 and 65 pounds.
Longevity: With proper care, greyhounds have a life expectancy of 15 years.
Color: Greyhounds come in many colors-brindle, black, brown, fawn, or a combination of these colors.
Feeding: As pets, greyhounds eat no more than any other dog of comparable weight, four to six cups of dry food a day.
Exercise: Greyhounds adapt well to life as a pet and need no more than a romp in the backyard and an occasional walk in the park to keep them fit.
Temperament: Docile in nature, greyhounds are the original "couch potatoes" and get along well with both children and other pets.
Grooming: Greyhounds have little oil in their skin, so they have little "doggy odor" and only need a bath when soiled.
Housebreaking: Greyhounds are trained to follow a "potty" schedule, so it takes a little time for them to adapt to their new lifestyle.
To Adopt:

Hollydogs Greyhound Adoption at (954) 925-7758
Website: www.hollydogs.org
New Beginning Greyhound Adoption at: (954) 370-6556