Do you have a greyhound-shaped hole in your heart?
Did you know greyhounds are excessively overbred in Australia with five greyhounds bred for every one rehomed?
The problem with over-breeding and discarding of unwanted greyhounds means there are countless dogs waiting, or in the worst case, never getting to experience a life of love, comfort and security they so deserve.
Each year, perfectly healthy dogs and puppies are killed because they don't run fast enough or become injured while racing and are therefore no longer profitable to their owners.
More than just a "quick bet"
Although some may know them only for being "racing dogs" they are much more than that. Greyhounds are know for being gentle, loving and affectionate. Given the opportunity, most love nothing more than multiple naps a day and a short walk or two when they're not busy snoozing. While they will have short bursts of energy - "zoomies" often they are calm and enjoy a snuggle on the couch with their favourite human.
A self-confessed "greyhound aficionado"
My own experience with greyhounds came completely out of the blue. In the midst of another Melbourne lockdown in July 2021 I adopted Patch. What no one prepared me for though was just how obsessed I would become with these majestic dogs!
Having always been firmly anti-racing, I wanted to provide a safe a secure home for a dog that was fortunate enough to escape the industry, but having never owned a pet by myself before I chose to foster with a view to adopt. This allowed me to ensure the fit was right for both Patch and myself.
It didn't take long for me to fall in love with the breed, and Patch in particular. This lead to what we in pet rescue call a "foster fail."
I can now confidently say I will never own another breed and with so many beautiful dogs just like Patch looking for their forever home I couldn't think of a better reason for people to adopt or foster a greyhound.
Are you ready to change a life?
If you've ever thought about welcoming a dog into your life, a greyhound just might be what you're looking for.
With their sweet, affectionate nature, greyhounds make great family pets or companions. Most don't require a big backyard and often make perfect apartment dogs
If you're not ready to adopt, fostering a greyhound is an excellent opportunity to support a rescue group like Greyt Greys. Foster carers are the backbone of our organisation, they play a vital role by providing a safe, loving and supporting environment for ex-racing greyhounds.
Rescued greyhounds often come directly from a kennel or pound and need help to transition to "pet life." This is where foster carers come in. They provide the necessary guidance and life experiences these dogs miss out on in their formative years.
Fostering can be an hugely rewarding experience - to show a dog how good life is supposed to be and how loved and cared for they can feel.
You can help give a greyhound the life they deserve by adopting or fostering through Greyt Greys by viewing our greyhounds currently available for adoption here or by completing a foster application here.