Greyhound Care In The Home

These graceful animals make excellent pets and are very good with people at home, including children, and quickly return the affection and love given to them. They are very laid-back and make good companions. Homed responsibly, they can live with other pets including cats.

Contrary to popular belief, they need very little exercise. 2 or 3 short walks a day is all that is required. Sleeping is their favourite pastime, closely followed by eating!

'Following is a Greyhound's view of itself:

"Ever heard of the 40 mile an hour couch potato? That is what we become when we retire. We are great companions, low-maintenance and very laid back. If you have got room in your house or in your heart, give the RGOA or any other Greyhound organisation a call."

Remember !!!

Racing Greyhounds have spent all their lives in a kennel environment.  A hour a day in an exercise paddock, a bowl of food during the day, an occasional visit to a vet, a weekly visit to race track where for 30 seconds or so  they meet their own kind at 30mph and, of course, rest.

When they are homed, they have had no experience of many facets of life that we take for granted, televisions, vacuum cleaners, stairs, parquet flooring, access to food, comfortable sofas, other (non-greyhound) dogs, children, dogs etc.

Please be patient, they will get used to their new environment and they love routine.

Almost certainly they will not be house trained, however many greyhounds will adapt in the1st week at home, and, as with other phases of their new life, get them into a routine.

Suggested diet for a retired greyhound:

BREAKFAST

Two Weetabix or any other cereal in milk diluted with water

MAIN MEALS

• Dried complete food - five mugfuls for dogs or four for bitches, soaked in any gravy (i.e. Oxo). Add a little meat if you wish.

• For a weekly treat, give your greyhound cooked pasta with added tuna or sardines.

• Tinned food - use only Chappie or Butchers Tripe. Other brands will upset them! Mix with dog mixer soaked in gravy until soft.

• Cooked minced beef or chicken are ideal.

TEETH

Giving Bonios or chews will keep their teeth in good condition.