Greyhounds

Up until the 1800s greyhounds were the dogs of noblemen; indeed in history, commoners were not permitted to own a greyhound and it was once a capital offence to kill one.

 

The greyhound has sadly fallen from its aristocratic connections and nowadays with the introduction if oval racing in the 1920s greyhounds have become debased and at the mercy of a betting industry which sees the dog only in terms of financial gain. At 4 years old, or less, they become too slow to continue racing but a greyhound can live until 16 years old. There are many excellent owners and trainers who keep their retired dogs, but there are probably more greyhounds than any other single pure breed in dog pounds and kennels throughout the country.

About 30,000 greyhounds are bred for racing alone in the UK and Ireland, just for the chance of a few winners, A greyhound is seen as a possession which pays for its keep by winning races. Of this 30,000 dogs a year approx 10,000 are destroyed as puppies because they fail their first racing trials, approximately 12,000 are injured—even it is only minor injury it can have serious consequences for the dog who if it cannot win is unwanted—many are destroyed or abandoned.

Even a successful dog once it reaches the end of it’s racing career is rarely rewarded for its success and loyalty with a home and many meet the same fates as their unsuccessful siblings.

Owners who race their dogs at registered tracks can often have their dogs re-homed by the Retired Greyhound Trust. However their are many more unregistered tracks which have no regulations and are not covered by the Trust. Many owners do care and will keep their dogs as pets themselves or try to re-home them, but in an industry driven by money and gambling the dogs will always be a disposable asset.

Add to that the number of lurchers, there are always many, many dogs needing homes. Greyhounds and lurchers make ideal pets - as a breed they are usually gentle, submissive and non-aggressive. Believe it or not they are lazy!!

They require very little from you apart from your company, a soft bed, warmth, and adequate food.

There are one or two differences to be remembered. Greyhounds are sight hounds and their schooling for the track teaches them to chase small furry animals. You must keep a greyhound on the lead when outside until you are absolutely certain that, firstly your dog will come back to you and secondly will not chase other people’s small pets. This is not as difficult as it sounds—Greyhounds are a dream on the lead as they are so well mannered and rarely pull.